Where to practice an individual sport Réunion

This eighteen-hole course, the oldest on the island, is located in the forest of Étang-Salé and covers more than 68 hectares, full of flowers and greenery. The course is very well maintained and quite technical. There are also training areas, a driving range, a swimming pool and three tennis courts. There is a brasserie for refreshments. The whole family is welcome. If you don't want to drive back home, you can take a helicopter to Pierrefonds airport with Mafate Hélicoptère, partner of the golf course.

Pony and pony classes. Walk to L'Etang-Salé.

The stables organize short horseback rides in the Bourg-Murat area, as well as longer excursions, for half a day or several days (overnight stays in bivouac taken care of by the owners) in different corners of the island. The round of the three pitons, the piton de l'Eau, the volcano... So many sites that you can discover on horseback in a friendly atmosphere, according to your level, your desires and your budget. Pony rides are also organised for the little ones as well as carriage rides.

Be careful, although it does not represent any difficulty, keep up to date with the closing order of this trail at the tourist office or the ONF. Ideal for picnicking and bathing (in icy water!), the Biberon waterfall basin, named after a former forest warden, is accessible by an easy family path, although narrow and slippery in case of rain. Count 1 hour of walking there and back. A delight.

"Merens" is the name of the horse most commonly used for trail riding in La Réunion. This horse, originally from the Pyrénées ariégeoises, is renowned for its good temperament, sure-footedness and agility. It has adapted perfectly to the island's rugged terrain and climate. The equestrian center organizes excursions to the four corners of the island, by the hour, half-day or full day, for all riders: anything is possible, just ask.

Gildas, the boss, triple Reunion Island champion in cross-country, offers mountain bike descents accompanied by a qualified instructor. Departure at 7.30 am for a half-day rich in sensations, which starts with the ascent by shuttle bus of the Maïdo peak at 2,200 metres altitude. If you have never been to Maïdo before, the adventure begins with one of the most magnificent panoramas of the island, at an hour when the clouds have not yet covered everything. And then it's off for a 35-kilometre descent through forests of coloured woods and tamarind trees to the lagoon.

With an average altitude of 600 m, the Golf Club du Colorado is the highest in Reunion Island. Its twelve holes are full of slopes and slopes, and will delight the amateurs of tough courses. It is located in the heart of the Colorado leisure area and has complete facilities: driving range with putting-greens and bunkers, pro-shop (complete equipment for rent). All of this is supervised by a state-certified teacher. You can spend the day there and take a break or have lunch at the golf restaurant open every day from 9am to 6pm.

The trail starts at Takamaka. It's a hike on lava gratons, you must bring sturdy shoes and water. We cross the entire coule through the Takamaka gully to the Takamaka peak at about 1,000 m above sea level and then we descend through the Lemon-Pebble gully. One can also continue higher, or even camp. Count then 8 to 10 hours to reach the road to the Plaine des Sables or the pas de Bellecombe and especially a difference in altitude of 2 400 m!

Atmosphère Péi is a team of enthusiasts who take you all over the island with original and innovative means of transport. Their flagship activity: recumbent bicycles. These 3-wheeled machines offer optimum stability and the comfort of a seat, without the pain in the buttocks of a bicycle! Electric recumbent bikes are also available for outings in Saint-Philippe. Also discover the "swincar", an incredible all-terrain vehicle nicknamed "the spider car", or the brand-new service of "vélos sur mesure avec Mikaël", customized to your needs.

Specialized in tropical mountaineering, Adventures Reunion organizes, for the most adventurous travelers, excursions on the most beautiful peaks of Reunion Island: the three Salazes ridge, the Piton Maïdo needle, the Piton des Neiges/Gros Morne ridge, the great dicke of the Piton des Neiges, the ascent of Cimendef and the Piton des Calumets. Olivier, a high mountain guide and former rescuer of the high mountain gendarmerie platoon, also offers canyoning and aquatic trekking in the four corners of the island. On the agenda: adrenaline and fun in complete safety!

This is a pleasant walk to make your family by a day of big heat. Thirty-five minutes will be enough to reach the waterfall from the parking lot. The trail follows the St. John River on a fully-banded surface, making it accessible to wheelchairs. It plunges into the dense forest, between bamboo and banana trees, until reaching the cascade basin. Bathing is not monitored, but you will soon realize that the places are very popular with tourists and locals who are getting refreshed.

Tariff: free.

Duration: 35 minutes.

Difficulty: .

To the south of the Reunion, this small loop of 1 h 30 proposes you to discover the landscapes of L'Étang-Salé. Here, easy to locate: one side of the loop runs along a pipe that goes down to the city. The journey can be made in both directions, the important being to arrive at the summit, marked by a white cross; Enjoy a panoramic view of the municipality and the Ocean. You will discover throughout this easy walk of endemic plant species: you have to recognise them!

Tariff: free.

Duration: 1 p. m.

Difficulty: .

The trail begins at the stele of Thérésien Cadet, the professor who drew the attention of biologists to the richness of this forest. This primary forest installed on an ancient lava flow presents species that have for the most part disappeared from the rest of the island. Signs will inform you about the species to be observed and their main characteristics. Two other loops of one hour each also allow you to explore the forest.

This botanical trail, almost 5 km long in the Providence forest, is the most popular on Reunion Island after the Volcan trail, and is a meeting place for sports enthusiasts in Saint-Denis. It follows the famous GR R2, which crosses the entire island, but for the time being, you can make do with the section between Saint-Denis and the village of Le Brûlé. Interpretation panels line the route, providing information on the plant species you come across. The trail is well signposted, but with a steep gradient, which adds to the difficulty.

A paradise for hikers, with no roads or cars, inaccessible only on foot or by helicopter, the cirque de Mafate abounds in fascinating scenery and a network of well-marked trails. But a hike in the cirque de Mafate can't be improvised. Prepare well.

Equip yourself well. Take good walking shoes (with spare laces and Compeed® bandages), appropriate clothing (including fleece and K-way) and enough food and water (between 1.5 and 2.5 liters per person). In your rucksack, you should also pack a cap, a first-aid kit, a few provisions, a rubbish bag for your garbage, sunglasses and sun cream, a headlamp and, of course, your fully-charged cell phone and camera. Don't forget to withdraw cash before you leave, as gîtes and small shops don't always accept credit cards.

Check the weather conditions. The weather can change rapidly on Mafate, and you're not safe from heavy rain that could lead to landslides or river overflows. Consult the Météo-France website before setting off (www.meteofrance.re).

Check the duration of your trip. The duration indicated on the information sheets is given as a guide only, and will depend on your walking pace, your breaks, the group, etc. Set off early in the morning and make sure you return before nightfall, and never set off alone.

Follow the marked trails. Each circuit is marked by a GR (grande randonnée). The red and white GR is used for the main itinerary of the GR.R1 and GR.R2 (linear paths), the red and yellow GR corresponds to loops and the GR.R3 circumnavigates the cirque of Mafate. Some trails may be prohibited by prefectoral decree, in which case it's best to give up or change route.

Respect nature. Many of our forests are part of Unesco's World Heritage List, and you'll have the chance to walk through dense, endemic vegetation. Leave no trace of your passage. Don't light fires outside designated areas. Take all your garbage with you and don't pick plants or disturb wildlife.

Respect the inhabitants. Mafate is inhabited by a small community. Be discreet, respect their privacy and ask their permission before taking photos.

Useful numbers. Mountain rescue: 0262 930 930 or 112. Allô sentier: 0262 373 83.

Useful websites : www.reunion-mafate.com, www.onf.fr and www.ouest-lareunion.com.

The Club Hippique du Tampon is an association under the law of 1901. It is an elementary riding school, an FFE-approved training center and a renowned organizer of dressage and show jumping competitions, soon to be followed by acrobatics and horse-ball . Open days and various events are organized throughout the year, as well as introductory and advanced courses and pony rides for the little ones. A well-run, lively and dynamic club, thanks to the professionalism and positive energy of the current team.

Inaugurated in July 2015, this is the island's newest treetop adventure park, on the edge of the Bébour forest. More than 110 games spread over 6 courses, each of them being equipped with a continuous lifeline offering optimum safety for young and old. You will enjoy one of the longest zip lines in Reunion Island to fly over 140 m! Children are admitted from 3 years old which allows the whole family to enjoy it. But be careful, reservation is mandatory before going there. And don't forget your windbreaker!

This specialist mountain bike downhill provider will organise your adventures on the slopes of the Maïdo with a team of passionate professionals with state diplomas. Meet at 7:30 am at the car park on the Boucan-Canot square, to get equipped and board the shuttle that will take you to the summit of the Maïdo. The half-day descent will take you to the beach through forests of tamarind and cryptomerias. You will also have more technical and sporty routes, for mountain bikers looking for thrills.

Trout fishing is Langevin's speciality. This park allows you to do so in the magnificent setting of the eponymous river. You will be able to bring your equipment, if not the park provides it as well as bait. The team will clean your trout, empty them and pack them under ice. Just bring your cooler! Another option: to taste it on the spot. The chef will prepare it for you. His essential recipe: trout marinated in spices, watercress salad and coconut rice.

Le Dimitile is renowned for its many hiking possibilities. To reach the summit (1,850 m), the Boeuf la Chapelle trail is the shortest and most accessible route. The hike begins in Entre-Deux, at the foot of Dimitile. The trail is well marked and easy to follow. The first part of the climb is steep and can be difficult for those not used to hiking. As you go up, the vegetation becomes denser and the view opens up to the south of the island and then to the cirque de Cilaos. A magnificent hike.

Bruno offers excursions on electrically-assisted mountain bikes to discover the Dimitile region on your own. A volunteer fireman originally from Entre-Deux, he owns a small Creole house there, which has become his base. He provides five AE mountain bikes (Giant, 840 W battery). A good basic knowledge of cycling is required before venturing out on the trails, which start in the village. Bruno provides a trail map. On request, he can arrange meals and even overnight accommodation in a gîte, if you wish to take your time on the trail.

If you'd like to see the town in a way other than on foot, why not explore Saint-Pierre on a gyropod? This is an original mode of transport on Réunion Island, and one you won't find anywhere else on the island. In just 2 hours, in a group of no more than 8 people, accompanied by a professional guide (no self-guided rentals), you'll enjoy a unique experience. If you've never been on a Segway® before, don't hesitate. Initiation guaranteed before departure, and safety guaranteed. Great fun!

François Garconnet takes you on a horseback tour of Reunion Island. Saddle up your Irish cob (a breed of horse originating from Ireland) and set off to conquer the east of the island: from La Plaine-des-Palmistes to Saint-Benoît via the volcano or Takama. For an hour, half a day, a day or even several days, wonderful landscapes are offered to you. This Reunionese passionate about horses offers several tours to guide you off the beaten track. These horseback rides are open to experienced riders as well as to beginners.

Present on the island for more than thirty years, Évasion Kréol offers climbing or canyoning outings all over the territory, accessible from 7 years old. For canyoning, the circuits are adapted to all levels: Sainte-Suzanne, Grand Galet or Langevin rivers for beginners. Bras Rouge and Fleur Jaune in Cilaos, Trou Blanc, Ti Cap for the more sporty. Finally, the confirmed ones will be able to go to Takamaka and the Trou de Fer. Évasion Kreol also offers the ascent of the three Salazes in Cilaos, a must if you don't suffer from vertigo.

A great opportunity to discover one of Réunion Island's leading sports: beach tennis and its lifestyle. Whether you're with family, friends or even on your own, this fun and sporting activity is accessible to all. It's also a great opportunity to combine physical exertion with the pleasure of the game, and to do it on a dream beach. You can rent a court by the hour, take part in a beginners' tournament or take a trial lesson (1h30) to learn the basics.

Here is one of our favourite walks, close to downtown Saint-Denis, accessible with the whole family. The path presents no difficulty and offers a beautiful view of the city and the ocean. In season, you can even see the whales jumping over the waves. There is a kiosk where you can picnic and why not have a glass of wine at sunset. The view is beautiful at night too, when the city lights are on.

Discover all the treasures of Reunion Island with the "Zarlor", the special offers designed by the Western France Tourist Office: carefully selected guided outings, leisure activities and sporting and cultural experiences. On the water, in the water, in the air, on land or "underground", between walks and hikes, water sports, Creole cooking workshops and discovering local Réunionese produce, the tourist office offers numerous multi-activity leisure packages, at negotiated prices, and takes care of everything. Don't hesitate to ask!

From the pirogue basin in Étang-Salé, Florent will take you on board his boat to introduce you to big game fishing in the Indian Ocean. You will enjoy sailing with this very friendly, educational and professional character who loves to transmit his passion. The trips are made to Saint-Leu or Pierrefonds depending on the weather conditions. You will of course bring back beautiful fishes, but especially nice memories of this privileged moment. Indeed, this outing is done in small group, up to 3 people on the boat, from 6 years old.

Original: explore Étang-Salé on an all-terrain electric scooter! Ze Trott offers tours suitable for all levels to discover the natural wonders of the area. You can rent your scooter on a self-service basis, but the assisted rides are more interesting. We recommend the "ideal ride": you will travel 20 km from the forest to the wild and preserved coastline, passing through its most secret spots, all in a warm and friendly atmosphere. A fun activity open to all. On reservation.

Ayapana specializes in organizing outdoor sports activities. Alexis, a state-certified guide, is full of enthusiasm and good humor, and knows all about the riches of his adopted island. He accompanies his customers according to their desire for discovery and their level of fitness, adding little stories about botany and tastings of Creole products. From leisurely hikes to trails, from mountain biking to multi-day treks, or even musical hikes for music lovers and nature enthusiasts, all options are possible!

Once parked at the bottom of the road to Mafate, take the path of Bord which starts in its continuity and climbs in laces. This hike takes you along the edge of the rampart of the Rivière des Galets and allows you to enjoy magnificent views as far as your terminus at the Dos d'Âne paragliding take-off area. The little extras: at the beginning of the trail, you will be able to see the old cable support of the Albert Lougnon hydroelectric plant built in 1913 on the left bank, and you will pass through the remnants of the mid-slope forest.

Run'Surv offers two to five-day survival courses in the forest or in the mountains, supervised by a professional guide with multiple skills. We learn all the techniques of autonomy and survival in a natural and hostile environment, such as lighting a fire and knowing how to maintain it, building a shelter with branches, as well as knowledge about fauna and flora. This friendly and fun adventure, which is accessible to all ages and levels, is enjoyed with family, friends or colleagues to build a team. A real reconnection with nature!

The Grand Bénare is one of the most beautiful viewpoints of the island, with its 2 896 m, it is also one of the highest summits. But be careful, it must be earned. You will have to get up early, very early, before the sun would be ideal, in order not to be disturbed by the clouds. The departure is made from the Maïdo, then you follow the Grand Bord path which dominates Mafate, halfway up, with the Piton des Neiges in front of you. At the top of the Grand Bénare, a spectacular panorama: the cirques of Mafate, Cilaos, the Grand Morne and the Trois Salazes is offered to you.

If you're spending the night in the cirque, don't miss this not-to-be-missed hike, one of the most beautiful in Cilaos. It takes you to La Chapelle, a very narrow canyon carved out over the centuries by the Bras Rouge river. The descent is punctuated by magnificent panoramas. Once you've reached the gully, it's time to head back upstream. At the entrance to La Chapelle are a swimming pool and two huge 100 m-high boulders. A route to be avoided after heavy rain or in case of uncertain weather.

Based behind Étang-Salé beach, RMB offers AE mountain bike (mountain bike with electric assistance) excursions through the island's forested areas: le Maïdo, L'Étang-Salé, les Makes, le Dimitile and the volcano. Secure, à la carte circuits, most of them accessible according to your level of fitness, whether you're riding solo, with family or friends. The routes and landscapes are breathtaking. Also available for hire is the Buddy, a bike designed for sandy terrain, ideal for exploring the coastline.

Monday is Mafate, Tuesday Grande Bénare, Wednesday Cilaos... One day, a hike. One day, an excursion. Relying on a network of 100% local and independent guides, Otenthike accompanies you on your discovery of the island and its natural wonders, with guaranteed departures whatever the number of people. "Let's make people dream and see mountains in their eyes" is our promise. Authentic encounters and experiences with passionate guides who will tell you all about the history of their island. Treks also available on request.

The ascent of the 4.5 million-year-old Piton des Neiges, an extinct volcano and the highest peak in the Indian Ocean, is often the goal of a trip to Réunion Island for many hikers. Its ascent is reputed to be challenging, but the exceptional panorama on arrival is well worth the effort. Of the three trails, the start from the Cilaos boulder is the most popular, the fastest and also the steepest. The climb is immediate and doesn't stop until you reach the summit. False flats are rare. It's best to make the ascent over two days, with a night in a gîte, so you can watch the sunrise over the Piton de la Fournaise before the clouds cling to it.

Three trails, three options. This hike starts at Le Bloc, 3 km from the village of Cilaos (bus 63). But access to the Piton des Neiges can also be made from the Plaine des Cafres or from Salazie (this option is the easiest, but also the longest).

Sound advice. In high season, if you want to spend the night on the summit, you'll need to make a reservation at the Dufour barracks refuge, also known as the piton des Neiges gîte. Make sure you're well equipped (including for the cold - there's no snow on the summit, but there may be ice, and temperatures can drop to 5°C), and poles are highly recommended. There's little risk of altitude sickness, but you'll need to keep well hydrated and progress at your own pace.

Donkey rides for children in Saint-Gilles-les-Hauts. Isabelle, a State graduate, welcomes you to her farm for walks on the back of one of her 5 donkeys, one of which can be harnessed to carry the picnic. The animals are in the open air and enjoy an environment adapted to their development. An original activity and, to say the least, unique in Reunion Island. Also pony rides and encounters with other animals such as guinea fowl, goats and their kids or turkeys. Your children will be delighted.

This provider takes you to explore lava tunnels, such as the Blue Basin tunnel located at the artisanal village of L'Éperon in the west of the island. After a short climb, you will observe endemic birds nesting here, and discover large rooms with walls covered with magnesite crystals. Two routes are possible: a long crossing of 2.5 km (4-5h), to the less frequented parts of the tunnel, or the discovery (3h) of the narrowest passage (10 m on your knees) where you will learn how lava tunnels are formed.

In Cilaos, towards Bras-Sec, cryptomerias abound. These large trees, originally from Japan, are ideal for setting up thrill courses. Monkey bridges, 80-metre zip lines and other obstacles will delight you on the six courses. For the little ones, aged 3 to 6: perched huts, giant trampoline and accrobranche courses on secure nets. Departures at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Other activities include guided and themed tours with local guides, mountain bike outings, treasure hunts... Reservations strongly recommended.

Coco Bike presents itself as the specialist in mountain bike touring and downhill riding. It brings together a team of passionate professionals at your service. But beware of late risers as the departure is in the early morning, around 7:45 am, to be transported by minibus with the equipment to the Maïdo at an altitude of 2,200 m. You will then be able to begin a descent full of sensations and adventures, all according to your level, of course, because there are many trails for novices. For sports enthusiasts, an excellent way to discover the island from another angle.