Palais du Fromage

Top choice in Les Hautes Plaines & the Volcano


The aptly named 'Cheese Palace' is famous for its superb range of cheeses, including a delicious fromage au miel et caramel (cheese flavoured with honey and caramelised sugar), best enjoyed at a picnic table in the cryptomeria forest nearby. Also concocts pancakes, yoghurts and fruit juices. Find it on the outskirts of Bourg-Murat, towards the volcano.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Les Hautes Plaines & the Volcano attractions

1. Cité du Volcan

0.24 MILES

Everything you need to know about Piton de la Fournaise and volcanoes in general should become clear at the excellent Cité du Volcan. You can expect state…

2. Belvédère du Nez-de-Bœuf

2.58 MILES

On your way to the volcano, be sure to pause at this viewpoint (it's signposted) to enjoy unsurpassable views over the valley gouged by the Rivière des…

3. Belvédère

2.83 MILES

From this viewpoint near Bois Court, you can look down into the splendid valley of Grand Bassin. Truly spectacular.

4. Cratère Commerson

4.17 MILES

Just off the road that leads to the volcano (it's signposted), this lookout affords spectacular views of a 230-metre deep crater.

5. Pas des Sables

4.96 MILES

About 22km from Bourg-Murat, there's a fabulous viewpoint at Pas des Sables (2360m), from where you can gaze at the barren moonscape that is the Plaine…

6. Domaine des Tourelles

5.49 MILES

A lovely 1920s Creole building just south of the town centre, Domaine des Tourelles now houses a shop selling local produce and souvenirs. Outside you'll…

7. Maison du Parc

5.55 MILES

The headquarters of the Parc National de la Réunion are based here. There's an interesting exhibition section, with plenty of information (in English)…

8. Plaine des Sables

5.81 MILES

You've reached the end of the world! The Plaine des Sables is a wide windswept plain, made of ashes. With its lunar landscape, it could form a perfect…