La Réunion, nicknamed the Intense Island, offers hikers an exceptional playground with its three cirques, active volcanoes, and coastal trails. To fully embrace this adventure, the Exsel Group provides eight strategically located establishments from Saint-Denis to Saint-Pierre, serving as ideal base camps for exploring the island’s natural wonders. Each hotel becomes a prime starting point for your hiking escapades, combining modern comfort with proximity to La Réunion’s most stunning trails.
La Réunion: A Hiker’s Paradise
A Remarkable Natural Heritage
La Réunion boasts extraordinary geological and climatic diversity, making it one of the Indian Ocean’s top hiking destinations. The La Réunion National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, covers 42% of the island and offers over 1,000 kilometers of marked trails.
From snow-capped peaks to black sand beaches, through primary forests and recent lava flows, the island presents a unique array of landscapes. These natural riches are accessible via a well-maintained trail network suitable for all levels, from casual walkers to seasoned hikers.
Must-Do Trails of the Intense Island
The GR R1 and GR R2 long-distance trails crisscross the island from north to south and east to west, connecting the cirques of Mafate, Cilaos, and Salazie. These iconic routes offer a comprehensive exploration of the island’s highlands, with stops at charming mountain lodges.
The Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, provides spectacular hikes across solidified lava flows. Reaching the Dolomieu Crater is one of the most unforgettable experiences for hikers visiting La Réunion.
Exsel Group Hotels: Your Base Camps for Adventure
Saint-Denis and Surroundings: Gateway to the Cirques
Exsel Créolia Hotel: Comfort and Convenience for Business Hikers
Located near Roland Garros Airport, the Exsel Créolia Hotel is ideal for travelers blending business with a passion for hiking. This 4-star hotel offers 109 comfortable rooms and a 500 m² infinity pool with stunning Indian Ocean views.
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Address: 14 Rue de la Source, 97400 Saint-Denis
Accessible Hikes:
- North Coast Trail (20 minutes)
- Voile de la Mariée Waterfall in Salazie (35 minutes)
Exsel Austral Hotel: In the Heart of Saint-Denis
The Exsel Austral Hotel, located in downtown Saint-Denis just 300 meters from the sea, offers 50 comfortable rooms, including two adapted for guests with reduced mobility. Its prime location provides quick access to trailheads in the island’s highlands.
It’s an excellent base for exploring the Salazie Cirque and its spectacular waterfalls, such as Voile de la Mariée and Trou de Fer. Hikers can also easily reach the Maïdo trails for sunrise views over Mafate.
Address: 15 Rue de la Compagnie, 97400 Saint-Denis
Accessible Hikes:
- Hell-Bourg and Trou de Fer (40-minute drive)
- Maïdo Trail (50 minutes)
- Bélouve Forest (45 minutes)
Saint-Gilles-les-Bains: Between Sea and Mountains
Exsel Alamanda Hotel: Relaxation After the Effort
In the heart of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, the Exsel Alamanda Hotel offers the perfect balance of mountain adventure and beachside relaxation. After a day of hiking, guests can unwind in the heated pool (during the austral winter) or enjoy the nearby Hermitage Beach.
The hotel is a great starting point for trails in the island’s west, including those at Maïdo and the Route des Tamarins. Its proximity to Saint-Paul also allows quick access to Mafate via Rivière des Galets.
Address: 45 Rue Général de Gaulle, 97434 Saint-Gilles-les-Bains
Accessible Hikes:
- Maïdo Trail and Mafate Viewpoint (35-minute drive)
- Cap Noir and its Pools (15 minutes)
- Boucan Canot Coastal Trail (10 minutes)
Exsel Ermitage Hotel: 3-Star Comfort Near the Lagoon
With its 37 refined rooms, the Exsel Ermitage Hotel offers an intimate setting steps from the beach. Hikers will enjoy its prime location, ideal for combining land exploration with aquatic relaxation.
The hotel is minutes from coastal trails and provides easy access to the western highlands. Its proximity to shopping areas makes it convenient for stocking up on hiking gear and supplies.
Address: 2 Rue des Aigrettes, 97434 Saint-Gilles-les-Bains
Accessible Hikes:
- Bassin des Aigrettes (20-minute drive)
- Coastal Trail to Saint-Leu (start on foot)
- Saint-Paul Highlands and Mafate (40 minutes)
Floralys-Roseaux Complex: Tropical Immersion
Exsel Floralys Hotel: In the Heart of a Tropical Park
The 48 rooms of the Exsel Floralys Hotel, housed in single-story bungalows within a tropical park, offer a unique lodging experience. This setup allows hikers to recharge in a preserved natural environment.
It’s an ideal base for exploring western trails and hikes toward the Saint-Paul highlands. Air-conditioned bungalows with Italian showers ensure optimal comfort after a day’s exertion.
Address: 48 Rue Général de Gaulle, 97434 Saint-Gilles-les-Bains
Exsel Roseaux des Sables Residence: Autonomy and Flexibility
Adjacent to the Exsel Floralys Hotel, the Exsel Roseaux des Sables Residence offers various accommodations for up to 6 people. This setup is perfect for hiking groups or families seeking independence.
The ability to prepare meals is a significant advantage for hikers mindful of nutrition or wanting to pack homemade provisions for day trips.
Address: 50 Rue Général de Gaulle, 97434 Saint-Gilles-les-Bains
Accessible Hikes from the Complex:
- Bois Blanc and the Piton la Mare tour(23 minutes by car)
- Le chemin de l’Entre-Deux (18 minutes)
- From Etang-Salé les Hauts to Les Avirons(10 minutes)
The South: Gateway to the Volcano
Exsel Victoria Hotel: Perched on the Wild South
Located in Grand-Bois, the Exsel Victoria Hotel overlooks the Indian Ocean from a dramatic cliffside. Its 31 rooms offer a magical immersion in a pristine environment, making it an ideal base for exploring the Wild South and its geological wonders.
Just 10 minutes from Saint-Pierre, the hotel provides quick access to spectacular coastal trails and routes to the Piton de la Fournaise.
Address: Chemin Bœuf Mort, 97410 Grand-Bois
Accessible Hikes:
- Wild South Coastal Trail (start on foot)
- Piton de la Fournaise via Plaine des Cafres (1h30 drive)
- Cap Méchant and its Basalt Columns (15 minutes)
Exsel Le Terre Sainte Hotel: Art and Hiking in Saint-Pierre
In Saint-Pierre’s fisherman and street-art district, the Le Terre Sainte Hotel offers a unique blend of local culture and proximity to hiking trails. This lifestyle hotel provides spacious living areas for hikers to share their experiences.
It’s an excellent starting point for southern trails, particularly those leading to the Piton de la Fournaise and the lunar landscapes of Plaine des Sables.
Address: 178 Rue Amiral Lacaze, 97410 Saint-Pierre
Accessible Hikes:
- Piton de la Fournaise (1h15 drive)
- Coastal Trail to Grand-Bois (start on foot)
- Rivière Langevin and its Pools (30 minutes)
Iconic Hikes Accessible from Exsel Hotels
The Three Cirques: Jewels of La Réunion’s Highlands
Mafate Cirque: The Hiker’s Kingdom
Accessible only on foot or by helicopter, the Mafate Cirque offers La Réunion’s most authentic hiking experience. From Exsel hotels in Saint-Denis and Saint-Gilles, hikers can reach key access points in under an hour.
The Maïdo trail, accessible from the Exsel Group, offers breathtaking views of this pristine cirque. Adventurous hikers can descend to La Nouvelle or Marla to explore picturesque hamlets and meet welcoming locals.
Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult, depending on the route Duration: 4 hours (Maïdo round trip) to multiple days for a full traverse Required Gear: Hiking shoes, warm clothing, provisions
Cilaos Cirque: Thermal Springs and High Peaks
Famous for its thermal springs and high-altitude wines, the Cilaos Cirque offers varied hikes accessible from all Exsel properties. The trail to Piton des Neiges, the Indian Ocean’s highest peak, is the ultimate challenge for experienced hikers.
Hotel staff can assist in organizing the ascent to this iconic 3,070-meter summit, typically a two-stage climb with an overnight stay at the Piton des Neiges lodge.
Difficulty Level: Difficult Duration: 2 days with an overnight lodge stay Required Gear: Mountain gear, sleeping bag, mandatory lodge reservation
Salazie Cirque: Waterfalls and Primary Forests
The greenest of the three cirques, Salazie is home to spectacular waterfalls and preserved primary forests. Hell-Bourg, ranked among France’s most beautiful villages, is a must-visit stop accessible from Saint-Denis hotels.
Hikes to Trou de Fer and Voile de la Mariée Waterfall offer stunning views of these natural wonders. Well-marked trails suit hikers of all levels.
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate Duration: 2 to 6 hours, depending on the route Required Gear: Walking shoes, rain gear
Piton de la Fournaise: Hiking an Active Volcano
Approaching the Crater
From southern hotels like Victoria and Le Terre Sainte, the Piton de la Fournaise is accessible via a 1h15 drive through the Plaine des Cafres. This iconic hike leads to the edge of the Dolomieu Crater, offering a striking view of volcanic activity.
The trail crosses unique lunar landscapes, from volcanic sand plains to recent lava flows. Proper preparation is essential due to rapidly changing weather conditions at altitude.
Difficulty Level: Moderate Duration: 5 to 6 hours round trip Altitude: 2,632 meters at Dolomieu Crater Required Gear: Warm clothing, sun protection, sufficient provisions
Lava Flows and Enclos Fouqué
Exploring recent lava flows around Grand Brûlé offers an exceptional geological spectacle. These hikes reveal the intense volcanic activity shaping La Réunion’s landscape.
Hotel staff can recommend local guides whose expertise in Réunion’s geology and volcanology enriches these experiences.
Coastal Trails: Between Sea and Cliffs
West Coast: From Lagoon to Cliffs
West coast coastal trails, accessible from Saint-Gilles hotels, showcase diverse coastal landscapes, from white sand beaches to basalt cliffs sculpted by marine erosion.
The trail from Boucan Canot to Hermitage is ideal for families, while routes to Saint-Leu offer more challenging sections over volcanic rocks.
Wild South: The Ocean’s Raw Power
From the Victoria Hotel, hikers can explore the Wild South coastal trail, revealing the Indian Ocean’s raw power against basalt cliffs. These dramatic routes require caution and respect for weather conditions.
Remarkable geological formations, like Cap Méchant’s basalt columns or Saint-Leu’s blowholes, punctuate these hikes with wild, pristine beauty.
Services and Amenities for Hikers
Personalized Advice and Information
Exsel hotel staff provide detailed information on hiking conditions, recommended trails based on skill level, and weather forecasts, ensuring safe and enjoyable outings.
Receptionists can also guide guests to specialized stores for hiking gear purchases or rentals and connect them with certified local guides for technical trails.
Hiker-Friendly Dining
The group’s restaurants, including La Marmite Saint-Gilles and La Marmite Etang-Salé, which offer authentic Creole cuisine, offer catering tailored to the energy needs of backpackers. Traditional dishes such as pork curry, rougail saucisses and achards provide the nutrients needed for recovery after exercise.
Comfort and Recovery
All Exsel properties offer facilities for optimal post-hike recovery: pools for muscle relaxation, lounges for unwinding, and air-conditioned rooms for restful sleep.
Practical Hiking Tips for La Réunion
Preparation and Safety
Hiking in La Réunion requires preparation for tropical mountain conditions. Rapid climate shifts from coast to highlands demand versatile gear: lightweight, breathable clothing, sun protection, and warm layers for altitude.
Hydration is critical in the tropical climate. Hikers should carry ample water, especially for summit ascents where refilling points are scarce.
Environmental Respect
Preserving La Réunion’s fragile ecosystems requires strict adherence to marked trails and National Park guidelines. Hikers must act responsibly: avoid picking endemic plants, refrain from feeding wildlife, and remove all waste.
With growing trail use, hikers must remain vigilant to protect this exceptional natural heritage for future generations.
Weather Conditions
La Réunion’s tropical climate can surprise unprepared hikers. The rainy season (November to April) requires extra caution due to flash flood risks in ravines and trail accessibility concerns.
Hotel staff provide up-to-date weather information and may recommend postponing hikes during unfavorable conditions.
Plan Your Hiking Stay with Exsel Group
Strategic Proximity to Hiking Sites
The geographic distribution of Exsel’s eight properties ensures optimal island coverage for hiking enthusiasts. Each hotel serves as a strategic base camp, offering access to specific regions while providing high-quality accommodations and services.
This setup minimizes travel time to trailheads and allows exploration of La Réunion’s diverse landscapes from multiple perspectives.
Flexibility and Personalization
The group offers accommodations for all hiker profiles: solo rooms for independent travelers, family-friendly units for groups, and business-oriented hotels for those combining work and mountain adventures.
Staff are available to customize stays to meet each hiker’s unique needs.
Your Adventure Awaits!
The Exsel Group invites you to experience a unique hiking adventure in La Réunion, blending exploration of extraordinary landscapes with the comfort of quality accommodations. Our eight hotels are gateways to the wonders of the Intense Island.
From Saint-Denis to Saint-Pierre, our hotels welcome you in an authentic setting where Réunion’s hospitality meets exceptional service. Each stay becomes a tailored adventure, shaped by your desire to explore and your need to recharge.
Don’t wait to plan your La Réunion hiking trip. Book now and prepare for unforgettable moments in one of the world’s most beautiful hiking destinations. Your Réunion adventure begins here, with the Exsel Group.
