Listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, the charming islet of Hell-Bourg nestles right at the heart of the famous, verdant cirque of Salazie, in the centre of Réunion. This high-altitude village, where it is a little cooler than on the coast, not only enjoys a pleasant climate but also a magnificent, unspoilt mountain environment, ideal for hiking.
Hell-Bourg also boasts some pretty Creole houses, as evidenced by the picturesque, colourful façades of the shopping street, Rue du Général de Gaulle... The village owes its delightfully quaint charm to its status as a former spa resort, which sadly ceased its activities in the mid-20th century following a cyclone and landslides. Some very beautiful houses still remain from this period of splendour, like the famous Folio house, but also the relics of the old thermal baths by a small river, just down from the village. A very pleasant, green site, accessible via a pretty, sloping path which walkers in search of peace and quiet will particularly appreciate when taking a short rest…
One of the finest examples of Hell-Bourg's heritage, the colonial-style Folio house and its tropical garden are incontestably worth a visit. During the guided tour, as well as its refined atmosphere and traditional Creole furniture, you will see a very beautiful, lush garden and a very charming fountain and guétali (a traditional kiosk-like construction).
For lovers of walking, there are many hiking opportunities in the area. One of the nicest hikes is the one to the Bélouve plateau. Your efforts during the ascent with a 600-metre change in altitude will be rewarded upon arrival by a superb panoramic view of the natural cirque of Salazie and the famous Piton des Neiges. A very well-designed belvedere where you can enjoy a well-deserved picnic break!
