Photo: Ekrem Canli, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
This entirely mineral plateau has a singular lunar aspect. The road first overlooks the plateau before winding down and crossing it; it is therefore a good idea to stop on the descent to enjoy the view. Once down, the road turns into a very dusty track full of potholes. You can stop again to take a few steps. The plateau is not very large but it is very easy to get lost in the event of fog, do not go far from the road without suitable equipment (torch, warm clothes…). Not to be confused with the "Plaine aux Sables", located in Mafate and is much more greener.
The Plaine des Sables is a volcanic plateau in the mountains of Réunion. Part of the Piton de la Fournaise massif, this volcanic desert is situated at the border of Saint-Joseph and Sainte-Rose, within Réunion National Park.
© OpenStreetMap contributors
With an elevation 2,631 metres above sea level, it is the only active volcano on Réunion Island, and one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
Langevin Falls
Its natural pool is a popular swimming and picnic place on weekends and holidays.
These waterfalls inside a canyon are among the most spectacular on the island, with numerous individual cascades plunge into an almost circular basin that is only open on the north side, around 200 metres in diameter and several hundred metres deep. The boiler is not accessible for "normal tourists" but there is a lookout point at the top of the Kessel and with access from the hiking trail in Forêt de Bélouve that shows part of the waterfalls. During the helicopter tours, the narrow basin is flown through spectacularly from bottom to top as a spiral. A robust stomach is required, the helicopter pilots show all their skills.
A mountain higher than 3000 metres and a popular spot for hikers wanting a challenge. It contains the highest peak of Réunion.
A very remote cirque enclosed by mountains, tall cliffs and rugged wilderness.