Family holidays on Reunion Island

In Saint-Leu, the mystery of sea turtles at Kélonia!  You’ll be filled with wonder by these small marine reptiles of the Indian Ocean living here in conditions close to their natural habitat. This sea turtle observatory located by the sea in Saint-Leu is an aquarium, a museum, a research centre, a protection site, an environmental awareness venue and a rescue and care unit all rolled into one.

In Saint-Gilles, grab your mask, snorkel and flippers to follow the Hermitage undersea trail in the Marine Nature Reserve. Explore this natural space and its wealth of unique biodiversity that invites you to try a fun and magical experience along a snorkelling trail. Observe tropical fish, corals and even turtles, which we trust you will respect and help us to protect.

Reunion Island boasts 30 kilometres of beaches with black or golden sand, including 22 kilometres that are protected and preserved by the coral reef that creates the lagoon. Swim in the safety of the turquoise lagoon where you can enjoy a variety of water sports and make new discoveries.

Fish of every colour at the Reunion Aquarium! You’ll find it a stone’s throw from the marina of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains and the Roches Noires beach. Visit this soothingly quiet place to understand the marine ecosystem of Reunion Island. Both fun and informative, this magical trail is populated by some 700 multicoloured fish (trevally, coral, seahorses, etc.).

In Saint-Philippe, the Jardin des Parfums et des Épices can be found in the wild south. It features a maze of flowers, perfume plants, spice plants, medicinal herbs, fruit trees, and all the magic of their colours and essences: vetiver, ylang-ylang, clove, cardamon, vanilla, turmeric, ginger, pepper, cinnamon, ferns, orchids and palms. The Jardin des Parfums et des Epices

In Saint-Denis, the Jardin de l’État, formerly the Jardin du Roy, is a botanical haven in the heart of the Reunion capital. This city garden is ideal for strolling and relaxing in the shade of the enormous exotic trees. In this green paradise you’ll find flowers that produce rare essences, a play area and water play features. The site is home to the natural history museum, a listed historical monument and a great place to visit to find out all you want to know about the very specific wildlife of the region’s islands.

Above Saint-Denis, the Domaine de Beaubassin is a lovely Creole house of Reunion-style architecture with two turrets, roofline friezes and a verandah. Spend a day learning about Creole culture, with an introduction to arts and crafts, a picnic and culinary tastings in the company of Monique, the owner of this beautiful property.

In Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, the Jardin d’Eden is a tropical and ethno-botanical landscaped garden offering an unforgettable experience in a 2.5-hectare park. This luxuriant place of extraordinary diversity is home to some six hundred species of medicinal plants, edible plants, perfume plants, sacred plants, endemic plants, spices, cacti, palms, bamboos and creepers. Wellbeing workshops are organised regularly and the garden shop sells a range of art & craft products.

Above Saint-Leu, the Maison du Coco in La Pointe-des-Châteaux invites you to unveil the secrets of coconuts on a visit to the coconut grove, the tropical garden and the educational farm.  Join a cookery, cosmetics or art & craft workshop to find out the many uses of the coconut palm. Coconut secrets

In Saint-Leu, Mascarin, the Botanical Garden of Reunion Island, is located in Les Colimaçons. At this historic site you can visit a beautiful Creole house set in a garden that beckons you to take a stroll, a real treat for the senses. Plunge into an ocean of endemic plants, a Creole orchard, and whole collections of flowers, succulents, palms, orchids, ferns and coffee bushes from across the world. Look up! The Saint-Leu sky, a world-famous paragliding spot, is filled with a multitude of colourful wings.

In La Plaine des Cafres, the Cité du Volcan in Bourg-Murat can be found just off the road leading to Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. This museum is a tourist attraction and a world-class scientific and educational centre for the whole family. Take an immersive trip into the depths of Reunion’s volcano, through workshops, games, activities, screenings and guided tours. Children aged 5 to 12 years can even have their birthday party in this magical place. As for the mini-film in 4D, it’s absolutely brilliant. Definitely a must-see!

In La Plaine des Palmistes, make your way through the trees on an acrobatic trail. Between land and sky, you’ll find several family-friendly acrobatic fun trails in the Reunion forest. Surrounded by cryptomerias and tamarinds, enjoy a breath of fresh air as you clamber along the rope bridges, do Tarzan jumps from the creepers, whiz down the zipwires and have fun on the swings.

In Cilaos, boating on the Mare à Joncs. Board an electric boat for a trip between the water jets on the Mare à Joncs. You’ll control this easy-to-use vessel with a steering wheel, just like a car, or with a joystick that only needs one hand. The boats are so manoeuvrable that even a 7-year-old can drive one, as long as a parent is present.

In the wild south, stop off in Manapany. You’ll love the authentic charm and the black sand of this picturesque little beach resort. Enjoy the pleasure and peace of mind of swimming in a small natural pool, an experience that will delight the whole family. Against the deep blue ocean, the black volcanic rock strikes a contrast of incredible beauty. To round off the day in style, head for Grand’Anse to watch the sunset.

In Salazie, the Creole houses trail takes you into the cirque which is also known for the authentic charm of its colourful houses and creole dwellings. This guided tour organised by the East Tourist Office takes you to Hell-Bourg, the only overseas village listed among the most beautiful villages in France. The village has inherited some beautiful villas, like the Maison Folio, and other treasures such as the old thermal baths that retrace the history of Reunion Island.

At La Plaine des Palmistes:hiking in Bélouve forest. Discover the most enchanting tropical forest of them all: perched on a plateau in the East of Reunion Island, 1,300 metres above sea level, Bélouve forest can be reached by following a track from La Plaine-des-Palmistes. From the edge of the rampart you’ll enjoy a spectacular view over Salazie, the most luxuriantly green cirque of Reunion Island. Welcome to the highlands where the tamarind reigns! Take your family along the secured footpath into the heart of the primary forest, admiring the outstanding biodiversity along the way. Tree ferns, mosses, arums and orchids mingle together in a merry tangle. The wildlife is just as remarkable. Keep your eyes open for the many birds that nest in the trees and the endemic butterflies that flutter above. The footpath also leads to a viewpoint where you’ll enjoy the stunning sight of the never-ending Trou de Fer waterfalls. Belouve, a primary forest

At La plaine des Sables, a magical and mysterious hike in a pleasant atmosphere. This site is one of those bewitching places on Reunion Island that truly leaves you starry-eyed. This family hiking itinerary explores the topic of volcanism in La Plaine des Sables. Follow it in the company of a qualified mountain leader who is also a volcano expert.

In Le Maïdo, an adventure at the Parc de la Luge. In a sublime setting of lush greenery, the whole family will unwind and enjoy thrilling sensations on a memorable experience at the Parc de la Luge. You’ll make the most of a sensational variety of activities: off-road electric scooters, archery, summer luge, remote-controlled boats, unicorn pony rides, and visits to the farm animals. These unique activities are available for children of all ages. On your way back you can stop in the town of Saint-Paul to visit the market and enjoy the exotic aromas of the fruit and vegetables. Adventure at the Parc de la Luge

The 3-star Dina Morgabine*** is located right in the centre of Saint-Denis. A fabulous place to spend quality time with the family. The hotel has very spacious family rooms. Give in to exquisite pleasure in the unusual setting, an invitation to travel between the world of the Messageries Maritimes merchant shipping company and a decor inspired by the very spirit of Reunion Island. During your stay you’ll have access to the Dina Zen wellbeing centre, the bar and the rooftop swimming pool, to savour those pleasant, relaxing moments. “Le Pierre Loti” is a seaview restaurant and lounge bar that serves bistro food with a local flavour. In the vicinity you’ll find the main market, the Jardin de l’Etat, the Reunion natural history museum and the Parc de la Trinité.  European Ecolabel certification.

The Résidence l’Archipel in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains is located between the beaches of Boucan Canot and Les Roches Noires. The hotel has a family atmosphere and a host of useful facilities that make your stay even more pleasant. A number of key attractions can be found nearby: Ermitage beach, Saint-Gilles port, the Aquarium, the Jardin d’Eden, the Villèle museum and the village of l’Eperon. La Résidence l’Archipel. European Ecolabel certification.

The Gadiamb City in Saint-Pierre is an accommodation solution that combines luxury and nature, ecology and authenticity. Perched above Saint-Pierre in the south of the island, this family-friendly glamping site is set in a lychee orchard and offers outstanding views over the ocean and the mountains. Various activities are available: crazy golf, pony rides, visits to the riding stables, the educational farm and the botanical gardens, and a kindergarten. Picnics, theme evenings and birthday parties can also be organised. The restaurant at the riding stables serves the delicious culinary specialities of Reunion, mainland France, Morocco, and Africa more widely.

Le Bois Joli Cœur in Sainte-Anne. This campsite in the island’s eastern highlands offers a friendly family atmosphere and a spectacular natural setting. Boasting the Gîtes de France seal of approval, it has designated pitches in an agrotourism picnic area, “Kaz Insolites” quirky accommodation units built in traditional materials, and eco-friendly kiosques that will appeal to environment enthusiasts. The facilities will delight the whole family and you can even visit the farm.

The charming Cana Suc in Sainte-Rose is certified by Gîtes de France with a “3 épis” rating and belongs to the “Esprit Parc National La Réunion” brand. If it’s Creole authenticity you’re looking for, you’ll appreciate the charm of Cana Suc, located near the Anse des Cascades. You’ll be welcomed by Martine and Jacques, your friendly hosts who wish you a pleasant stay. Nestling in a vast Creole garden, the Cana Suc chalets offer comfort and relaxation in a traditional Creole decor. Children and adults will have board games, books, DVDs, crazy golf and badminton to keep them entertained. Visit the sugarcane farm, the vanilla plantation and the palm field and discover the different aromas of spice plants. Nearby, some key attractions will make your holiday complete: restaurants, Sainte-Rose Marina, the Indian Ocean, and pleasant walks along the shores.

The Ferme du Kilimandjaro in La Plaine des Cafres. In the highlands of Reunion Island, nature is everywhere. And what better way to enjoy it to the full than by spending the night in a gypsy caravan with a stunning view of the Piton des Neiges ridges? Such is the promise of Serena and Sergio, the owners of the Ferme du Kilimandjaro. This pair of passionate nature lovers welcome you to their picturesque site with their well-kept, eco-friendly gypsy caravans that are energy self-sufficient. #Eco-Friendly accommodation