Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
the Bras de Cilaos and the Bras de la Plaine. Entre-Deux is a delightful place to stay and
get a taste of rural life.
Sights & Activities
Entre-Deux boasts a wealth of
cases créoles
, traditional country cottages surrounded by
well-tended and fertile gardens, many of which are being restored. There's also a strong
tradition of local crafts, including natty slippers made from the leaves of an aloe-like plant
called
choca
.
Opportunities for
hiking
abound. Many visitors come here for the tough hike up the
slopes of iconic Le Dimitile (1837m) to a sensational view over the Cirque de Cilaos. This
summit is also endowed with a strong historical significance;
marrons
(runaway slaves)
took refuge in the area in the late 19th century. Just before the summit, the modest yet
well-organised
Espace Culturel Muséographique Dimitile
(ECM; 0692 39 73 26; Le Dimitile; admission
€2, with an audio guide €5; 9.30am-2pm)
does a good job of explaining
marronage
and tracing
the history of slavery in Réunion.
There are several options to reach the summit. The shortest route starts from the end of
the D26 (there's a small parking area), about 10km from Entre-Deux, at an altitude of
1100m. Count on a four- to five-hour return slog. To soak up the atmosphere, it's not a
bad idea to overnight at one of the
gîtes
near the summit.
The tourist office can provide information and sketch maps detailing the various routes.
Feeling lazy? Join a 4WD tour.
Kreolie 4x4
( 0692 86 52 26, 0262 39 50 87;
www.kreolie4x4.com
; 4 Im-
passe des Avocats)
runs day trips that include Entre-Deux and the viewpoint at Le Dimitile
(€100, including lunch). Guides are informative, providing interesting tidbits on the area's
flora and fauna (in French).
Sleeping
Gîte Émile
( 0262 57 43 23, 0692 67 24 54; Le Dimitile; dm with half board €35)
Up on Le Dimitile. Has basic ac-
commodation in five- to 12-person dorms. From the
gîte
to the viewpoint, it's a 30- to
45-minute walk.
GÎTE
€
Gîte Valmyr
GÎTE
€
