From one viewpoint to the next, Réunion reveals its many facets! Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Cirques of Cilaos, Salazie and Mafate and the ramparts and mountains are symbols and showcases of the island’s beautiful landscapes. Whether in the Highlands with their wild mountain scenery, at breathtaking waterfalls or along the coastal beaches, many spots can be reached by car to amaze you. If you are looking for superb viewpoints on Réunion Island that you can enjoy by car, here are a few suggestions.
The Maïdo, the greatest balcony over Mafate
From Saint-Paul, the road climbs through the Maïdo forest to a viewpoint perched at over 2,000 metres. From there, you look down on the Cirque de Mafate, wild and roadless, reachable only on foot. It is one of the most striking panoramas on the island.
Set off early, before the mist rises in late morning. The road is long and winding towards the end: drive gently and bring a jumper, it is cool up there even in the height of the southern summer.
The wild South, from Cap Méchant to Anse des Cascades
Along the east and south coast, the RN2 reveals a coastline shaped by lava flows. At Cap Méchant, near Saint-Philippe, black cliffs face a pounding ocean: the contrast with the vegetation is spectacular.
A little further north, in Sainte-Rose, the Anse des Cascades has a line of waterfalls tumbling down the cliff into a palm grove, a stone’s throw from the ocean. Both sites are easy to combine by car in a single day.
The volcano road and the Nez de Bœuf
From Bourg-Murat, the volcano road climbs to the Plaine des Sables, a mineral landscape that looks like another planet, then to the Pas de Bellecombe, gateway to the Piton de la Fournaise. On the way, the Nez de Bœuf viewpoint looks over the dizzying gorges of the Rivière des Remparts.
It is a high-altitude climb: the weather changes fast and fog can roll in. Check conditions before setting off and leave plenty of margin on the descents.
Cilaos, the Roche Merveilleuse and the Fenêtre des Makes
The Cilaos road and its countless bends is a spectacle in itself. Once up there, the Roche Merveilleuse offers a clear view over the cirque and its ramparts. For another angle, the Fenêtre des Makes, above Saint-Louis, opens like a balcony over Cilaos, best enjoyed in the morning before the clouds.
On these narrow hairpin roads, a compact, nimble vehicle makes driving much more relaxed.
Salazie, Hell-Bourg and the Voile de la Mariée
Salazie is the greenest of the three cirques, full of water and waterfalls. From the road you can see the Voile de la Mariée (Bridal Veil), a long waterfall that splits into several streams. Higher up, the Creole village of Hell-Bourg, listed among the most beautiful villages in France, is worth a stop for its houses and gardens.
Local tip: for high-altitude viewpoints (Maïdo, volcano, Cilaos), aim for sunrise. The light is better and the sea of clouds often forms in the afternoon, hiding the view. To string these spots together at your own pace, a rental car on the island remains the most flexible option.
Frequently asked questions
Which viewpoint is the easiest to reach by car?
The Maïdo and the Roche Merveilleuse in Cilaos can both be reached entirely by tarmac road, up to the viewpoint car park. They are two safe bets for a first stay.
What time should you leave to avoid the clouds?
As early as possible. In the Highlands, the sea of clouds often forms mid-morning. Setting off at dawn gives you clear skies and soft light.
4 branches including Roland Garros airport, unlimited mileage included, clear rates and a real person who knows the island. We do more than hand you the keys: we advise you to suit your plans, from the coast to the cirques.
See our vehicles · Our 4 branches