Considered as one of the most dynamic cities in Reunion Island, the city of Saint-Pierre is worth a visit. Below are some suggestions and places not to be missed for your upcoming trip to Reunion island.
The beach, the harbour and the waterfront of Saint-Pierre.
Close to Saint-Pierre city center, Saint-Pierre beach offers many advantages. The beach is not only protected by a coral reef but also features a monitoring station. It is therefore possible to swim and snorkel safely in the lagoons. Early in the morning, you can easily admire the colorful fish just equipped with fins, mask and snorkel. Moreover, if you are hungry, many restaurants and food trucks are available around the beach . At the end of the day, you may join passersby strolling by the waterfront or the pier.
Saint-Pierre city center.
Steps away from the waterfront, the city center of Saint-Pierre features several old buildings, vestige of colonial times. For example, you may admire the architecture of Saint-Pierre town hall, classified as a historical monument since 1982, the library Raphaël Barquisseau which served as a warehouse at the time of the East India Company or the Kerveguen warehouse which today houses the headquarters of the TAAF administration.
The fisherman village of Terre-Sainte.
Located on the left bank of the river (“Rivière d’abord”), Terre-Sainte is a traditional fisherman village that has kept its former enchanting atmosphere. The village became home to many artisans and workers during the construction of Saint-Pierre harbour during the mid-nineteenth century. With a unique atmosphere, Terre-Sainte is a picturesque village with houses similar to the ones built on the outskirts of the Mediterranean sea. The smaller and less crowded Terre-Sainte beach offers a pleasant alternative to the beach of Saint-Pierre.
Saint-Pierre local market.
Saint-Pierre fresh market is recognized as one of the most beautiful markets in Reunion island. Each Saturday morning, fruits, vegetables, spices, souvenirs and handicrafts are displayed on the stalls of the market for the pleasure of locals and visitors. It’s also the ideal place to discover some local specialties such as vanilla, honey, samosas, “bonbon piment” (spicy fritters), or “Chemin de fer” (local cake). We recommend getting there very early in the morning to enjoy the bustling atmosphere. Payments at the market are mostly made in cash. If needed, an ATM is available at the post office nearby. Every Saturday morning, from 5am to 12.30pm
The Gouzou factory & the "Very Yes" art gallery
Street Art lovers will certainly enjoy a visit at the Gouzou factory (“L’Usine à Gouzou”), the permanent art exhibition gallery set by the artist Jace, creator of “the Gouzou”, the famous yellow and faceless character. This mischievous character punctuates the walls all around the island and beyond frontiers. At the back of the Gouzou factory, the “Very Yes” gallery brings together the works of artists who met Jace over the years. 170 rue Marius and Ary Leblond, 97410 Saint-Pierre Tuesday to Saturday: 10am to 1pm / 2pm to 6pm
The botanic garden « Domaine du Café Grillé »
Located in Pierredonds, Domaine du Café Grillé features more than 800 different plant species spread on a 4-hectare area, divided in different section. “My grandfather’s garden” section features not only endemic species found in La Reunion, but also ancient fruits and vegetables and plants with medicinal virtues. You will also discover the origins of the vanilla, clove or pepper, introduced respectively in the 19th and 18th centuries. The second part of the garden is devoted to “Reunion island of today”. This section features exotic plants, flowers, palm trees and fruit trees imported by humans. At the end of the visit, take the time to savor a cup of the famous Bourbon Pointu coffee, recognized as one of the best coffees in the world. 10 allée Cèdres Pierrefonds 97410 Saint-Pierre Guided tours: Tuesday to Saturday at 10.30am and 2.30pm. Sunday at 10.30am and 3:00pm. Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 9.30am to 5:00pm. Closing of the ticket office at 4:00pm.
La saga du rhum (Rum museum)
Set in the island’s oldest family distillery, “La Saga du rhum” is a museum dedicated to Reunionese rums. A visit to the museum will introduce you to the history of Reunion island and the development of its sugar industry. Your visit will end with a rum’tasting from the Isautier range. Chemin Fredeline, 97410 Saint-Pierre Monday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm. Closing of the ticket office at 5pm. Guided tours at 10am, 11am, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm, 4.30pm . Duration: 1h15. Each visit includes a rum tasting.
Terre Sainte Guan Di Temple.
Inaugurated in 2017, the Chinese temple dedicated to the warrior god Guan Di is recognized as the largest Guan Di temple in the Indian Ocean. This massive temple facing the sea was built according to Feng Shui principles. It honors the ancestors but also the values and virtues represented by Guan Di which are: benevolence, courage, fidelity and bravery. Every year, the temple lives to the rhythm of events celebrated by the Chinese community: the birthday of Guan Di, the Chinese New Year or the lantern festival. Each Saturday, two guided tours are proposed by volunteers. Rue du temple, Terre Sainte Open only on Saturday: 9.30am to 12pm / 2pm to 5pm Guided tours: 10am and 3pm
Narassingua Peroumal Tamil Temple
At Ravine Blanche, the Narassingua Peroumal temple is representative of the Indian culture in Reunion island. Originally, this temple was made of wood, just at the location where an Indian boat was stranded on the shores of the Ravine Blanche around 1860. In 1962, the decision was made to build a new temple using stones. It took 10 years to build and refurbish this new temple according to Indian traditions. Even though access to the interior of the temple is not allowed every day. You can easily admire its incredible architecture and thousands of carved statues directly from the street. Some firewalking ceremonies usually take place in December and January. Visit of the temple: Wednesday from 3pm to 4pm
Boat excursion departing from Saint-Pierre harbour.
In Summer, you may join a catamaran trip departing directly from Saint-Pierre harbour. A 3-hour long excursion will bring you along the coasts of Grande-Anse, Petite-Ile, Manapany and Langevin. This cruise will allow you to discover the beauties of the Wild Coast coast directly from the sea. Booking in advance with our concierge team is highly recommended.
Where to stay nearby Saint-Pierre?
A mere 10 minutes away from Saint-Pierre, Palm Hotel is an ideal option to relax after a full day of sightseeing. Away from the hustle bustle of the city center, you will enjoy a relaxing evening in the heart of lush greenery. On top of that, the luxury hotel also provides an easy access to the various sites classified as World Heritage by UNESCO. For your stay, you may choose between 65 rooms, suites and lodges spread in a vast garden adorned with endemic and tropical plants. For your well-being and moments of relaxation, the hotel also features a spa, two swimming pools including one heated pool, a relaxation area with four-poster bed, hammam and hot tub facing a panoramic view over the Bay of Grande Anse. You can also count on the services of our concierge team in order to help you tailor your stay according to your interests. The hotel guarantees the best rates all-year-long when booking directly on its official website. Discover our special offers
