Toward the southern tip of Réunion, set within the heart of fertile farmland and rolling green countryside, is the charming town of Petite-Île. It’s where you can browse quaint handicraft stores and experience the town’s farming traditions at markets. Relax amid the natural confines of a pretty beach and pristine gardens. Petite-Île takes its name from an islet of the same name situated off its coastline.
Find cafés, shops and historic landmarks as you stroll along the town’s streets. Watch demonstrations of pottery making at Atelier Toccata and Creole porcelain painting techniques at Dékocéan. Visit La Maison de l’Abeille to learn about the world of beekeeping and honey-making.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the Marché du Terroir Péi, a fresh produce market held on every second Saturday of the month. Shop for locally grown fruits and vegetables and sample French-Creole inspired food.
Petite-Île’s beach is Plage Grand Anse, which is a 15-minute drive from the town center. This is an idyllic stretch of soft white sand framed by coconut trees. Enjoy a swim in the warm water of the Indian Ocean and walk around the ruins of Le Four à Chaux, an old lime kiln. Travel east along the coast to the Cap du Fil headland with excellent views of Petite-Île islet. Look for seabirds such as the white-tailed tropicbird, Reunion’s national bird.
Go to Domaine des Mille Cocos and discover a fascinating collection of tropical plants as you wander along well-maintained trails. Spot hundreds of species of coconut plants and admire panoramas of the nearby coastline.
Petite-Île is about a 90-minute drive from Rénuion’s capital, Saint-Denis. Getting around the Petite-Île's center and beach is easy on foot and public buses connect the two areas. Public buses also travel from the town to other popular Réunion destinations. Among these are Saint-Pierre, L’Étang-Salé les Bains and Cilaos, the jumping off point for trekking trips around Piton des Neiges volcano.
