Boasting exceptional views of the sea, lagoon and Saint-Leu, the de Châteauvieux family's former estate and its19th-century outbuildings are quite simply magnificent. In 1857, the estate covered 660 hectares from the sea to the mountains. Its agricultural activity was based on sugar cane and geranium, as well as food crops, tea, cotton... Beer, cider and oil were also produced. Today, the park covers 13 hectares, 8 of which are open to visitors. Its primary vocation is to raise awareness of the island's cultural heritage, particularly its indigenous and endemic plant life. There are three botanical collections to discover: the Bas de l'Ouest forest, "lontan" plants, a Creole orchard, succulents, palms, orchids and ferns, world coffee trees, a cathedral bamboo gully and a collection composed exclusively of Bourbon roses. The guided tour lasts 45 minutes, but to explore the entire garden, you'll need a good two hours (beware, it's a bit of a climb!). We enjoy discovering the richness and diversity of the botanical collections as much as admiring the architecture of the former agricultural estate, both inside and out, while strolling through a well-organized, clean and well-maintained estate with magnificent views. We highly recommend it! There's also a souvenir store and a restaurant, Le Vieux Pressoir, offering decent Creole and metro cuisine.
Further information
Opening time and information on MASCARIN BOTANICAL GARDEN OF THE MEETING
Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9am to 5pm. Guided tours at 11am and 2:30pm. Closed on public holidays. Adult : 7 €.
Owner's Message
Mascarin, Jardin Botanique de La Réunion was born from the management of the former agricultural estate of the de Chateauvieux family, an estate belonging to the Collectivité Départementale and previously managed by the association Conservatoire Botanique de Mascarin since 1987.
Mascarin, Botanical Garden of Reunion Island is now attached to the Environment Department of the Reunion Island Council. Its multidisciplinary teams offer skills in the management and maintenance of botanical collections, as well as expertise in welcoming the public, education, training and project management.
By offering a welcoming site conducive to walking and well-being, Mascarin is an essential "showcase" for the people of Reunion and tourists to learn about Reunion's plant heritage.it is a showcase for the scientific and cultural dimensions of Reunion's plant heritage and the importance of plant biodiversity in the life of mankind.
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