NATURAL POOLS (SACRED BASINS)

Near Ambatoroa and its coconut grove, near the Albrand lighthouse, take the Ambodiatafana trail and its sacred basins: a white sand beach flanked by three basins. A moment of relaxation to savour after breaking your back on the rough tracks. In this wild part of Sainte-Marie, you'll pass through villages surrounded by vanilla and banana plantations, clove forests and rice paddies. You'll be greeted by a member of the local guide association, who will explain the various fady (taboos) and beliefs of the site, as these places are above all sacred. Next, you'll find the three pools, formed by volcanic rocks that have created shallow natural basins right on the edge of the Indian Ocean. These pools fill and empty daily with the rhythm of the tides. The water inside the pools is generally clear, calm and warmer than the open ocean, as it is protected from the waves by the rocks. The best time to take full advantage of the natural pools is at low tide, when the basins are well formed and safe for swimming and exploring. At high tide, they can be submerged and less remarkable. From the top of Pointe Albrand, a small dune of white sand, the view over the north of the island is remarkable. Fish and seafood dishes are available on site. A pleasant day trip to the less urbanized north of the island!