Takamaka Viewpoint

The East


North of St-Benoît the D53 strikes southwest, following the Rivière des Marsouins 15km upstream to end beside the Takamaka viewpoint. Be prepared to fall on your knees in awe: despite a small power plant near the viewpoint, the overwhelming impression is of a wild, virtually untouched valley, its vertical walls cloaked with impenetrable forests. Here and there the dense green is broken by a silver ribbon of cascading water.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby The East attractions

1. Grand Étang

1.37 MILES

Around 12km southwest of St-Benoît along the road towards Plaine-des-Palmistes is the 3km road to Grand Étang (Big Pond). This pretty picnic spot lies at…

2. Maison du Parc

3.15 MILES

The headquarters of the Parc National de la Réunion are based here. There's an interesting exhibition section, with plenty of information (in English)…

3. Domaine des Tourelles

3.2 MILES

A lovely 1920s Creole building just south of the town centre, Domaine des Tourelles now houses a shop selling local produce and souvenirs. Outside you'll…

4. Belvédère de l’Eden

4.29 MILES

A fabulous place to chill out is this aptly named viewpoint, in upcountry Bras-Panon. From Bras-Panon, take the road to St-André, then turn left onto the…

5. Forêt Ste-Marguerite

4.6 MILES

For a complete change of pace and atmosphere, consider spending some time in the protected 159-hectare Forêt Ste-Marguerite, way up in the hills. Fans of…

6. Îlet Bethléem

5.4 MILES

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…

7. Bassin La Paix & Bassin La Mer

5.72 MILES

A blissful site is Bassin La Paix, in the Rivière des Roches valley, about 2.5km west from Bras-Panon (it's signposted). From the car park, a path quickly…

8. Bé Mahot

6.29 MILES

About 3.5km from Hell-Bourg, Bé Mahot is a cute hamlet that's well worth visiting. With its clunky, colourful Creole houses clinging on the hillside and…