Plaine-des-Palmistes

Introducing Plaine-des-Palmistes

There were once large numbers of palm trees on the Plaine-des-Palmistes (hence the name), but as a result of heavy consumption of palm-heart salad, few now remain. The town itself is spread out along the highway and is a pleasant escape from the coast. Its only specific sight is the Domaine des Tourelles, a lovely 1920s Creole building just south of the town centre, which now houses a shop selling local crafts and produce, and a small tourist office (temporarily closed when we passed by).

For Tarzan types, Forestia (0262 49 69 20; Route de la Petite Plaine; adult/child €22/17; by reservation) has six adventure circuits of varying levels of difficulty, including a very safe one for the kiddies (over four). The setting, in a dense cryptomeria forest, is enchanting. It’s on the road to Forêt de Bébour-Bélouve, about 3km from the highway (direction Petite Plaine).

Another great way to commune with nature is to walk to the Cascade Biberon, a 240m-high waterfall and natural swimming lake to the north of Plaine-des-Palmistes. It’s situated a half-hour stroll away from the highway (it’s signposted).

Last updated: Oct 3, 2008