Looking for a paradise where you can spend your next dream vacation with your family? Reunion Island is the ideal destination!
Only an 11-hour flight from mainland France, this paradise island is brimming with culinary and cultural riches and breathtaking landscapes. You’ll find a multitude of options to entertain yourself or simply relax. The tourist offerings of Reunion Island appeal to both adults and children.
Here is our guide to organizing the best trip of your life on this multifaceted French archipelago.
All About Reunion Island
Reunion Island is a French department located in the Indian Ocean. Covering an area of 2,500 km², it is home to over 800,000 inhabitants who cultivate a unique heritage and identity.
The volcanic island of Reunion fascinates with its wild fauna and flora and welcomes over 400,000 tourists each year. The famous Piton de la Fournaise is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, with its last eruption in August 2023.
Reunion reaches over 3,000 meters in altitude at the Piton des Neiges, also known as “the roof of the Indian Ocean.”
The French archipelago attracts athletes exploring its trails and volcanoes, as well as couples and families looking to explore the island and relax. A destination full of promises to discover with your children.
What to Do with Family on Reunion Island?
Must-See Cities
You must visit St-Denis, the capital of Reunion. Don’t miss its Cathedral and 19th-century gardens. Immerse yourself in the city’s colours and scents by wandering through its narrow streets for guaranteed escape.
The colonial heritage in the south will delight history enthusiasts. In St Pierre, the old Town Hall, the former train station, and the Raphael Barquissau media library date back to the French East India Company era. These sites are not to be missed!
Finally, the ideal spot for beautiful family photos is the port of St Gilles northwest of the island. You can even plan a small sea cruise from there.
The Most Beautiful Beaches on the Island
The beach at Ermitage on the western coast is the most famous on the island. Its crystal-clear waters, dozens of palm trees, and white sand offer a postcard-perfect landscape. Arrive early, as the spot is popular among tourists and locals alike.
If you have teenagers, head to Boucan Canot Beach. It’s the meeting place for young people and groups of friends who come to play volleyball, surf, or engage in other water sports. It’s also a white sand beach but in a wilder, more authentic setting than Ermitage.
For those who prefer black sand beaches, Etang-Salé or Tremblet offer less Instagrammable but serene spots to admire the sunset.
Must-Do Hikes on Reunion Island
Reunion is also known for its breathtaking hikes: both athletes and beginners will find their joy! Make sure to research in advance, as some trails are reserved for seasoned hikers and are less suitable for children.
The Cirques of Mafate and Salazie are pretty tricky to access. Prefer the Cirque of Cilaos: you can reach it by bus and enjoy the flat terrain at the summit.
Top 5 Family Hikes :
The Loop from the Plaine des Sables to the Small Crater of Piton Hay
This 10 km loop allows you to climb 3 pitons with gentle slopes. It’s an excellent warm-up if you wish to continue with the ascent of Piton de la Fournaise. However, this second 5-hour hike may be challenging for very young children.
The Tour of the Plaine des Sables
This off-trail loop allows you to walk on flat terrain while admiring beautiful panoramas. It is also suitable for children aged 10 and above, and you can do it on an electric mountain bike.
From Grande Fontaine to Bassin Sandrine
This 2.5-hour hike is perfect for children as it follows a paved path, the Chemin Charrette de Bœuf, which is very easy to walk. Located near St Paul, you can also explore local architecture.
The Ravine Balthazar in La Possession
This 5 km walk starts in the lively town of La Possession and continues along the banks of Ravine Balthazar amidst lush nature.
The Jacqueline Waterfall
You can’t miss Reunion’s waterfalls. This less than 4 km hike south of the island allows you to cross the Langevin River, passing under the Jacqueline Waterfall. An absolute delight in hot weather.
Savoring Reunion’s Gastronomy
Reunion also boasts a rich, spicy, colourful cuisine that delights locals and visitors. You can’t leave without trying the famous Rougail saucisse, bouchons, or local fruits.
We recommend strolling through local markets to buy your products. The St Paul market is the most famous, open all day Friday and Saturday morning. You will also find souvenirs for the whole family and affordable Madagascar vanilla.
Water Activities for Kids and Parents
The jewels of Reunion also lie beneath the ocean. You can book a boat excursion to watch whales between June and October. This spectacle will leave your children with unforgettable memories. Ensure that you choose local professionals who respect marine mammals.
Your stay in Reunion is also an opportunity for your children to experience their first dive. Some spots, such as the Cap de la Houssaye, are shallow and suitable for beginners. This activity lets you dive into marine life and discover the fauna and flora hiding there.
Canyoning is an excellent way to exercise while enjoying Reunion’s landscapes. The Canyon Bras Rouge or the Langevin River are more suited for budding hikers and children.
Practical Tips for a Stay in Reunion
When to Visit Reunion?
Reunion enjoys a tropical climate, so we recommend visiting during the dry season. This runs from May to November, and it allows you to enjoy sunny days with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 28°C.
During the rainy season, temperatures rise, and the climate is heavy, making it less ideal for outdoor activities.
If you can, the best time to visit is between October and December, outside of the school holidays. During this period, nature reveals all its beauty, and you can enjoy water temperatures above 20°C. It’s the perfect time to spend a winter in the sun.
Where to Stay in Reunion?
To access all amenities, it’s best to stay in one of the three main cities of Reunion: St Denis, St Pierre, or St Gilles.
Trazler travellers recommend Villa Angélique in St Denis. This 4-star hotel offers spacious, well-equipped rooms with TV, minibar, and toiletries. The attentive staff welcomes you in French, English, Spanish, or German. Everything you need for a stress-free family trip.
How to Book Your Family Trip?
To book your getaway with just a few clicks, trust Trazler. This all-in-one online travel agency allows you to book your flight, accommodation, and transfer on a single platform, all within your budget.
Trazler compares offers from hundreds of airlines and hotel partners in seconds to help you book at the best price. You can also endlessly mix and match flight, accommodation, and transfer options for a tailor-made trip.
If you encounter any issues, our support team is available 24/7 every day of the week. All you have to do is let yourself be guided.
Reunion holds no more secrets for you. Visit Trazler and book a dream stay for the whole family.
The dry season lasts from May to October, during which you can enjoy an average temperature of 26°C and water that’s almost as warm.
On Reunion Island, you can enjoy paradisiacal beaches like Hermitage Beach or embark on the ascent of Piton de la Fournaise.
You will find various aquatic and sporting activities that will appeal to young children. Reunion is also rich in lush nature that will amaze the little ones.
