From one point of view to another, the Réunion reveals its many facets! Listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Cirques of Cilaos, Salazie and Mafate and the ramparts and mountains are symbols and showcases for the beauty of the island's landscapes. Whether in the heights of the island with its mountainous and wild landscape, breathtaking waterfalls, and beaches on the coasts, many spot points are accessible by car to amaze you. If you are looking for superb viewpoints on the island of the Réunion that you can admire by car, here are some suggestions.

The Maïdo point of view: a show on the Cirque de Mafate

Located on the heights of Saint-Paul, the Piton du Maïdo offers an exceptional view of the west coast of the island and especially of the Cirque de Mafate islets. Among the many places to discover at the Réunion, this one is not to be missed. The fact that it is one of the only viewpoints accessible by car and that it gives access to the Cirque de Mafate makes it one of the most popular viewpoints for tourists. In addition, many picnic areas are accessible on the way to the viewpoint, giving visitors the opportunity to spend a pleasant time with family or friends in the heights of Saint Paul. 

access: 

From the west coast, it takes at least an hour to reach the viewpoint. Here's how to get there easily by car: 

• Follow the direction of Guillaume in the heights of Saint-Paul;
• Then take the Maïdo forest road (RF8) to the viewpoint.

Tips:

• To be able to observe the Cirque de Mafate without problems, remember to come very early, or even in the early morning before sunrise. This will allow you to observe a magnificent spectacle without undergoing meteorological turbulence;
• Taking this road offers the possibility of continuing your journey on a hike. The Grand Bénare hike is accessible from this spot. Don't hesitate to bring your walking shoes if you like outdoor sports;
• This point of view is more than 2000 meters above sea level and at this height, the temperature can drop very quickly compared to the bottom of the west coast. Provide warm clothing. 

The Pas de Bellecombe, a window on the Piton de la Fournaise

In front of the Maïdo, the Pas de Bellecombe is the most visited natural site in La Réunion, and the reason for this great popularity is the panoramic view of the volcano. Known as THE vantage point for observing the Piton de la Fournaise volcano, the Pas de Bellecombe has a space to park, thus facilitating its accessibility and offering a much more qualitative experience for visitors.

access:

• To get to Pas de Bellecombe, you will have to go through the Plaine des Cafres if you come from the west of the island or through the Plaine des Palmistes if you arrive from the north or the east;
• On both sides of the island you will have to cross the forest road, a very pleasant route and one of the most beautiful roads on the island passing close to many admirable viewpoints in the interior of the island such as the Nez de Bœuf (giving a panoramic view of the Rivière des Remparts) or the Cratère Commerson.

Tips :

• If you want to have a clear view of the Piton de la Fournaise, come and visit the Pas de Bellecombe early in the morning or at the end of the day, when the clouds are less present and the visibility is better;
• The ideal time to visit the island of La Réunion is between the months of May and November, when temperatures are cooler and rainfall is less frequent;
• However, note that weather conditions can be unpredictable on the island of La Réunion, especially regarding rainfall and clouds, so it is always advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your visit.

The Plaine des Sables, an exotic view!

Among the many natural sites of the island, the Plaine des Sables, located in the heart of the island of La Réunion, is a real natural gem waiting to be discovered! Imagine a lunar and mysterious landscape, where volcanic land stretches as far as the eye can see, dotted with rocks of all shapes and sizes. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in La Réunion, this expanse of more than 2000 hectares, surrounded by majestic mountains offers a unique spectacle of its kind. Both wild and unreal, the Plaine des Sables is the showcase before reaching the Piton de la Fournaise. If you are looking for strong sensations and intense emotions, the Plaine des Sables is a must do during your trip to La Réunion.

access:

• To access the Plaine des Sables, you have to go through one of our beautiful roads on the island, the plains road. Once in the village of Bourg Murat, follow the road that leads to the volcano. From the top of the road, you will be able to observe the criss-crossing of the road and the cars below;
• The passage by the forest road is obligatory, whatever the direction where you arrive (the Plaine des Cafres or the Plaine des Palmistes.

Tips: 

• Due to the unpredictability of the weather, be sure to check the weather before heading there. It would be a shame to visit such a viewpoint and be the victim of cloudy, overcast or even rainy weather.
• The winter season is the best time to enjoy this view in the best conditions. Indeed, during this season the weather is much drier and milder, the rains will be less frequent and you will be able to enjoy your moment to the fullest.
• Being a very popular site, this site can attract a lot of tourists, especially during holiday periods. In order to avoid the crowds and admire the view in peace, plan to come early in the morning. In addition, it will allow you to discover a magnificent sunrise giving light to a landscape worthy of the greatest science fiction films. 

Conclusion

The island of Réunion is full of viewpoints to visit, the Maïdo viewpoint, the Pas de Bellecombe or the Plaine des Sables as mentioned above. However, these are not the only points to visit: the Trou de fer in the northeast of the island, the Voile de la Marie waterfall near the Cirque de Salazie or the window of Les Makes in Saint Louis.
These sites offer spectacular views of the natural landscapes of the island, such as volcanoes, mountains, plains and the ocean. To access these different natural sites more easily, having a car will make your travels much more fluid. Multi Auto offers a wide selection of vehicles adapted to your needs. Book your vehicle here.