Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Bad news for those who want to spend their holiday under canvas: at the time of writing,
there were only two official camp sites, on the southwest coast at Étang-Salé-les-Bains
and L'Hermitage-les-Bains. You'll also find a couple of camping chez l'habitant (inform-
al, privately run camp sites) in Entre-Deux, Îlet-à-Vidot and Bélouve. The Cirque de Ma-
fate also features a few simple camping spots.
You can camp for free in some designated areas in the Cirques, but only for one night at
a time. Setting up camp on Piton de la Fournaise (the volcano) is forbidden for obvious
reasons.
Chambres d'Hôtes
Chambres d'hôtes are the French equivalent of B&Bs. They are normally tucked away in
the hills or in scenic locations and offer a window into a more traditional way of life. Op-
tions include everything from restored Creole houses or modern buildings to rooms in
family houses. On the whole, standards are high, and rooms are generally good value.
B&B rates are from around €45 for a double room. Breakfast is always included.
Many chambres d'hôtes also offer tables d'hôtes (hearty evening meals) at around €17
to €30 per person (set menu), but this must be reserved in advance (usually the day be-
fore). This is a fantastic way to meet locals and sample the local cuisine.
Many chambres d'hôtes are members of Gîtes de France ( www.gites-de-france-reunion.com ) . This
organisation has a brochure listing all the chambres d'hôtes in Réunion; you can find it in
tourist offices. They are also listed on the website. Chambres d'hôtes can be booked either
through Gîtes de France or by phoning the owners directly.
Gîtes de Montagne
Gîtes de montagne are basic mountain cabins or lodges, operated by the local authorities
through the Centrale de Réservation - Île de la Réunion. It is possible to organise a walk-
ing holiday using the gîtes de montagne only.
The gîtes de montagne in Réunion are generally in pretty good condition. Thanks to
solar power, they all now have electricity, although not all get as cushy as providing warm
showers. The Gîte de la Caverne Dufour at Piton des Neiges is the most basic: it has no
hot water, but there are inside toilets.
Gîtes de montagne must be booked and paid for in advance, and charges are not refund-
able unless a cyclone or a cyclone alert prevents your arrival. In practice, you won't be
denied access if you just turn up without your voucher, but you may not have a bed if it's
Search WWH ::




Custom Search