Introducing St-Gilles-les-Bains & l'Hermitage-les-Bains

Robinson Crusoe–style beaches and pristine wilderness, oh no no! The tourism machine shifts into overdrive in the large resort complex of St-Gilles and L'Hermitage (as they are usually known), with white sands, restaurants, nightclubs and a boisterous atmosphere on weekends. During the week, however, the atmosphere is much more relaxed and you shouldn't have to fight for a space to lay your towel. There are numerous water activities on offer, from diving to deep-sea fishing. The surf here isn't bad either; many amateurs hone their skills in St-Gilles before attempting the more challenging swells at St-Leu.

Let's be frank: it's got that generic resort feel and there's no discernible Creole character. If you're after more authenticity, clunk in your seat belt, jump on a serpentine country road and drive up to some rustic and authentic villages in the Hauts.