North Réunion Intercommunal Tourist Office
Some reasons why you should you sleep at least one night in “Le Beau Pays”…
OK, so Saint Denis isn't really the capital... because it's a "chef-lieu"! Yes, the island's "real" capital is PARIS! However, if you ask the Réunionese, they'll all give you the same answer! Once a Réunionese, always a Réunionese!
If you're a gourmet or a lover of world cuisine, you've come to the right place. St-Denis town centre is bursting with restaurants offering a wide range of flavours from all over the world. You won't have enough time in an evening to try them all! Moroccan, Indian, Chinese, vegetarian, Vietnamese, Thai, Italian, Greek... Bon appétit!
By choosing accommodation at mid-slope, you'll have a front-row seat to watch the sunrise. Just turn your gaze slightly eastwards and enjoy!
It was in 1669 that Governor Regnault had his residence built facing the sea in Saint-Denis. It is now the Préfecture de la Réunion, and is open to the public once a year during the European Heritage Days. Le Beau Pays refers to the first settlements in the northern part of Réunion, grouping together the three communes of Saint-Denis, Sainte-Marie and Sainte-Suzanne, which are rich in fertile land, lush vegetation and ideal for cultivation.
Whether it's a private 5-star gîte in Ste-Suzanne, a charming guest house in Ste-Marie or a youth hostel with breathtaking views over the heights of St-Denis, there's a whole range of accommodation to choose from in the Beau Pays. Ask your tourist office for advice!
Imagine yourself at 2276m altitude, thermos in hand, high above the clouds, alone in front of the rising sun, gazing out over the Cirque de Salazie. This exceptional moment will reward your efforts early this morning: waking up at night (around 4am), your journey from your accommodation in Saint-Denis to Mamode Camp, then your gradual ascent of the trail (allow 3h30 for the outward journey), at night, with your headlamp. "Ti pa, ti pa, n'arrivé" (slowly but surely, we'll get there). The high tamarinds, tree ferns and calumets will reveal themselves to you as you descend towards the coast.
Conceived by the designer of the Pardon brand, the KTdral district is a cobbled lane running along the back of Saint-Denis Cathedral. Restaurants have set up tables outside, and at weekends, musical artists are often programmed here.
Head for Ste-Suzanne, a town renowned for its pools and waterfalls. The Niagara Falls are so easy to get to, you could take your great-grandmother there, and post your selfie with the hashtag #niagarafalls!
Unique on the island, the presence of a port at the end of the runway means that you can feel the extreme power of the planes as they "hit the gas" to take off. Large aircraft often take off in the evening. Sensitive souls are advised to abstain.
Roland Garros International Airport is located in the north of the island, and traffic conditions early in the morning and at the end of the day are what they are... so put your mind at rest by booking your last night in the Beau Pays! And make the most of a great evening out on one of the many activities on offer.
