In Réunion, the car isn’t just a means of transport: it’s an invitation to travel. Within a few kilometres you go from the seaside to the cirques, from cane fields to the volcano’s lunar landscapes. Here are our favourite roads, the ones that turn a simple drive into a memory.
The Nouvelle Route du Littoral
Between Saint-Denis and La Possession, the road runs above the ocean on a spectacular viaduct, alongside the cliff. It’s probably the most impressive stretch on the island, a feat of engineering where you literally drive over the sea.
Enjoy the view, but keep your eyes on the road. In heavy swell, traffic may be restricted: check conditions before setting off on that side of the island.
The Route des Tamarins
Linking the West and South via the heights, the Route des Tamarins strings together viaducts and cuttings with plunging views over the lagoon. Fast and free-flowing, it considerably shortens journeys to Saint-Gilles, Saint-Leu and the South.
At rush hour, traffic builds around the western towns: allow a little extra time in the morning and late afternoon.
The Volcano Road
From Bourg-Murat, the road climbs to the Plaine des Sables, a mineral expanse that looks like another planet, then to Pas de Bellecombe, gateway to the Piton de la Fournaise. The scenery changes completely as you gain altitude.
It’s a mountain road: mist can come down fast and it’s cool up there. Set off early, check the weather and use engine braking on the descents.
Cilaos and Salazie, the cirque roads
The Cilaos road with its countless bends, carved into the ramparts, is an adventure in itself. The greener Salazie road winds beneath waterfalls to the Creole village of Hell-Bourg. Two atmospheres, the same total change of scenery.
On these narrow hairpin roads, a compact, nimble vehicle is much more at ease. Sound your horn before blind bends and give way on single-lane sections.
The Maïdo at sunrise
The climb to the Maïdo viewpoint crosses the forest to over 2,000 metres, facing the Cirque de Mafate. At sunrise, the light is soft and the sea of clouds still low: an unforgettable sight.
Leave at dawn to avoid the clouds that rise mid-morning, and bring a jumper: temperatures drop sharply at altitude.
Local tip: the weather changes quickly from one side of the island to the other. In heavy rain, never cross a flooded ford. To string these roads together at your own pace, a rental car on the island remains the most flexible option.
Frequently asked questions
Which road should you drive first in Réunion?
The Nouvelle Route du Littoral and the Route des Tamarins are the most accessible and give a great overview of the island on arrival. Save the cirques and the volcano for full days.
Do you need a 4x4 for these roads?
No, all these roads are tarmac and can be driven in an ordinary car. A compact size is simply more pleasant on the cirque bends.
4 branches including Roland Garros airport, unlimited mileage included and a real person who knows the island. We don’t just hand you the keys: we advise you based on your plans.
See our vehicles · Our 4 branches