Things to see and do Sainte-Rose

This permanent exhibition, which can be visited in 20 minutes, offers explanations of the historic volcanic flow of 1977. Beautiful photos and poetic texts are accompanied by newspaper articles from the time, tracing the beginnings of the event back to the wakes of the frozen lava. Testimonials, vibrant with fraternity, reveal the impulse of generosity of the Reunionese people to help the wounded inhabitants. An 8-minute film is also proposed.

A true enthusiast, Maryse Mounier will introduce you to her primary forest, with its many endemic species, on which she has grown more than 5,000 vanilla lianas over 4 hectares. Not a building or a machine on the premises, here everything is natural and artisanal, in a listed area. Many explanations are given: planting, fertilization, processing and the main varieties of vanilla trees. Walking shoes recommended. Production offered for sale.

This must-see stop on the Route de l'Est is well worth a few minutes' detour. The 152-meter-long suspension bridge spanning the Rivière de l'Est was the longest in the world when it was delivered in 1894. Classified as a historical monument in 2028, it has been undergoing major restoration work since 2021, in order to make it once again (and exclusively) accessible to pedestrians. The reopening of this suspension bridge, also known as the "Pont des Anglais", is scheduled for the end of 2023.

In an idyllic setting, the port of Sainte-Rose is a restful stopover. This fishing port is also the only one, along with Saint-Pierre and Le Port, that can accommodate sailing boats. On Sundays, many picnickers gather with their families. The site is also renowned for scuba diving. You will be able to discover the Corbet monument, made of basalt cut stone, a historical monument erected in memory of the British captain who attacked Sainte-Rose in 1809, as well as the fresco designed by Jace on the facade of the hydroelectric power station.

Also known as the coastal path, this trail links the port of Sainte-Rose to Anse des Cascades, via the 1977 lava flow. Here, you follow the wild coastline lined with vacoas, where the ocean meets the volcanic rock. The trail can be walked in either direction, in part or in its entirety. Total walking time is around 6-8 hours round trip. From la Marine to Ravine Glissante: 45 minutes. From Ravine Glissante to the 1977 flow: 1h45. From la coulée de 1977 to l'anse des Cascades: 1h45.