Things to see and do Saint-Benoît

The only high altitude lake of volcanic origin in Reunion Island, the tour of Grand-Étang is a very nice family walk, with multiple ferns and the majestic waterfalls of Bras d'Annette. To get there, follow the RN3 towards Saint-Pierre for 10 kilometres, and, near the Payet bridge, branch off on the road to Grand-Étang. You will reach the lake in half an hour's walk. You can then go around on foot or on horseback (there is a very good horse farm nearby) in about 1 hour. It is beautiful, quiet and green. A call to meditation.

Originally the name of a tree, Takamaka is an exceptional site, a tropical paradise, with steep mountains and waterfalls, Jurassic Park style. It holds records with more than 6 m of rain per year. A viewpoint is accessible at the end of the beautiful D53. To do so, follow Bourbier, the first exit of the four-lane road leaving Saint-Benoît from the north. The dam, built in 1969, supplied the island with 100% renewable energy. Today, it is only 30%. Go very early and only in good weather. There are opportunities for sports hikes.

Come and discover a place out of time, full of history, and bathe in the clear waters of the Rivière des Marsouins. Built in the 18th century, the islet served as a refuge for families facing the invasions of the forbans. Mrs Delisle, the governor's wife, had a workroom built there for young destitute girls, as well as a chapel. Snaking between ferns and bamboos for 20 minutes, the trail offers beautiful views of the river. The descent is a Way of the Cross, with a Saint-Expedit chapel halfway down.

Built in 1840, the parish church of Saint-Benoît is in the neoclassical style, with a pure and symmetrical architecture. The massive aspect is reinforced by the visible stone and by the pairs of pilasters and columns. Its nave is supported by twelve basalt pillars in reference to the twelve apostles. Marble fonts have been preserved in the vestibule. Its stained glass windows made in 1960 in Nancy are remarkable. The church and the fountain on the square are worth a look. They are both listed as historical monuments.

Founded in 1886, the Distillerie Rivière du Mât, a pioneer in sustainable development, is one of the oldest distilleries still in operation on Réunion Island. The guided tour, which lasts between 1h and 1h30, takes visitors through a variety of workshops, introducing them to the making and secrets of the island's great rums. Free tastings of La Cave à Rhums' finest medal-winning vintages, and the opportunity to purchase the full range directly from the La Cave à Rhums website boutique.