Car rental in Saint-Paul

Historic birthplace of La Réunion, Saint-Paul is a town with many faces. From the bay to the heights of the Maïdo, it offers a unique blend of heritage, nature and spectacular landscapes. Renting a car with Tropicar is the best way to enjoy this vast town freely - the third largest in France.

A rich past to discover

It was here, in 1663, that the first permanent settlers of the island arrived. The Grotte du Peuplement and Old Saint-Paul bear witness to this founding period. Later, the town became the island’s economic hub before yielding its place to Saint-Denis. This rich past can still be felt in the streets of the town center, especially around the marine cemetery, where iconic figures like Leconte de Lisle and the famous pirate La Buse are buried.

The Villèle Museum, Villa Rivière and Maison Serveaux also recount the colonial history of the region. To extend your walk, head to the restored wooden pier stretching out over the ocean.

Between lagoon and market life

Every Friday and Saturday morning, the seafront comes alive with the large market. More than 300 vendors gather here: exotic fruits, samoussas, handicrafts… the atmosphere is unmistakably Creole. Sit at the wooden tables along the waterfront to sample your finds before strolling barefoot on the black sand.

Even if swimming is not allowed at the central beach, the spots of Boucan Canot, L’Hermitage and La Saline are just minutes away by car. At Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, the island’s liveliest seaside resort, you can head out to sea to spot dolphins or discover the marine life of the lagoon.

Cap la Houssaye and golden savanna

On the way to Saint-Gilles, Cap la Houssaye offers a striking contrast between the Indian Ocean and the dry golden savanna. This natural headland is perfect for a sunset stop and also a great starting point for a walk or horseback ride among hidden heritage remains.

The Hauts of Saint-Paul: Maïdo and Mafate

From the Maïdo road, you quickly climb above 2,000 meters. At sunrise, the viewpoint over the Mafate cirque is one of the most breathtaking on the island. For hiking enthusiasts, the Canalisation des Orangers leads through the isolated hamlets of Mafate. Other trails, like the Tour des Roches or the Bellemène cobblestone path, offer stunning panoramas over the bay.

And for a total immersion in the historic heart of Saint-Paul, stay in an authentic guesthouse like Kiaorun, located just steps from the town center and bus station. The perfect base to explore everything on foot… or by car!