Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
OFF THE BEATEN TRACK
ÎLET BETHLÉEM
Very few visitors have heard about Îlet Bethléem, a magical spot by the Rivière des Marsouins that locals would
like to keep for themselves. Reached after a 15-minute walk from the car park, it features an old chapel (1858) -
still a pilgrimage site - and a smattering of picnic shelters amid lush vegetation. It's also an excellent swimming
spot, with lots of natural rock pools. Unfortunately, the area is sometimes sprinkled with rubbish. Follow the D53
in the direction of Takamaka, then turn left after about 1km (it's signposted).
Activities
Ferme Équestre du
Grand Étang
( 0262 50 90 03; Pont Payet; half/full day €55/130; daily)
Horse riding is a low-impact way to
soak up the drop-dead gorgeous scenery. The Ferme Équestre du Grand Étang, just bey-
ond the turn-off to Grand Étang, arranges half-day treks to Grand Étang; the full-day trek
includes lunch. It's also possible to arrange longer excursions to Bras Canot (two days)
and Takamaka (three days). One-day excursions in the area of Piton de la Fournaise -
most notably in the far west-looking Plaine des Sables - are also on offer (€150; horses
are transferred by van). Ask for Fanou, who can speak English.
HORSE RIDING
Oasis Eaux Vives
( 0692 00 16 23;
www.oasisev.com
)
The Rivière des Marsouins and Rivière des Roches offer
magical white-water experiences for both first-time runners and seasoned enthusiasts.
This well-established operator runs half-day excursions (€45).
RAFTING
Run Aventures
( 0262 64 08 22;
www.runaventures.com
)
Specialises in rafting trips on the Rivière des Mar-
souins and Rivière des Roches.
RAFTING
Sleeping & Eating
L'Orangeraie
( 0692 01 18 87, 0262 50 97 60; gite-natura.monsite-orange.fr; Pont Payet; d incl breakfast €57; )
A
good port of call if you want to get away from it all. The rooms, the bungalow and the
gîte
B&B
€€
