Often crossed without stopping on the way to Cilaos or the Sud Sauvage, the town of Saint-Louis is well worth a visit. Between Creole heritage, lush nature and mountain forests, it reveals an authentic and vibrant side of La Réunion. Renting a car is the best way to move freely between the town center and the Hauts.
The town center of Saint-Louis has a typically Creole atmosphere. Lined with shops, artisans and religious buildings such as the listed church and the mosque, it invites you to stroll around. With a car, you can easily explore the different neighborhoods and stop at the market or local shops to bring back traditional flavors and crafts.
Not far away, Étang du Gol makes a pleasant stop. This bird reserve, located opposite the sugar factory of the same name, is equipped with picnic areas in the typical vegetation of the leeward coast.
It’s in the highlands that Saint-Louis reveals its most beautiful landscapes. Head to the village of Les Makes, perched at 1,300 meters above sea level. Here, the Bon Accueil Forest is an ecological treasure, perfect for a walk in nature among endemic trees and birds.
And above all, don’t miss the Fenêtre des Makes: this viewpoint, easily accessible by car, offers a breathtaking panorama over the Cirque de Cilaos and the Piton des Neiges. On a clear day, the view is stunning, especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
For an unforgettable night under the stars, our partner Kaz Insolite offers a unique stay in the heart of the Makes Forest, at 1,500 meters altitude, in transparent bubble lodges surrounded by nature.
With a rental car, you can also enjoy tree-top thrills at Makes Aventures, an adventure park hidden in the forest. You can also drive to the Saint-Étienne River and the Ouaki site for an immersion into a wilder and more secret side of La Réunion.
With Tropicar, explore Saint-Louis at your own pace and discover a town full of contrasts, where tradition, nature and tranquility meet.