Belvédère du Maïdo, Mountain viewpoint in Saint-Paul, Réunion.
Belvédère du Maïdo sits at 2,190 meters elevation and overlooks the Cirque de Mafate valley and the western coast of Réunion Island. The viewpoint is a simple paved platform with railings where visitors can take in the expansive landscape on clear days.
The site began as a simple stopping point for hikers and developed into a popular destination during the 20th century. The construction of roads through the Tamarin forest allowed more people to reach this viewpoint.
The name Maïdo comes from the local language and links this place to the island's heritage. Today, people gather here to enjoy the views with family and friends, making it a beloved spot in their outdoor routines.
It is best to arrive before 10 AM to enjoy clear visibility, as clouds often cover the valley later in the day. Visitors should know that conditions can change quickly and bringing warm clothes is important.
From here, visitors can observe the remote settlement of Cirque de Mafate, accessible only by foot or helicopter. This offers a unique perspective on one of France's most isolated inhabited places.
Location: Saint-Paul
GPS coordinates: -21.07067,55.38795
Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:09
La Réunion is an island shaped by dramatic natural forces. Volcanoes, waterfalls, and mountains define the landscape. The Piton des Neiges rises to 3070 meters and dominates the island. Deep canyons cut through the terrain, crater lakes mirror the sky, and botanical gardens showcase the variety of plants found here. The island's history lives in its places. The Chapelle Pointue and the cemetery of Saint-Paul speak to the colonial period. Viewpoints like the Belvédère du Maïdo offer far-reaching perspectives across the land. Coastal sites like Anse des Cascades connect beach and nature. Some locations are shaped by volcanic forces, such as Cap Méchant and Pas de Bellecombe, where the ground tells stories of eruptions and change. Visitors discover many ways to experience this island. Hikers follow steep trails to waterfalls like Cascade de Trou Noir. Others seek out quiet lakes such as Grand Étang or walk through forests like Forêt de Bébour. Each place has its own character and rewards those who take time to explore.
Piton des Neiges
10.1 km
Maïdo
199 m
Pitons, cirques and remparts of Reunion Island
10.1 km
Grand Bénare
6.2 km
Roche Écrite
9.8 km
Trois Salazes
7 km
Gros Morne
8.4 km
Cirque de Cilaos
11.2 km
Église Notre-Dame-des-Neiges
11.1 km
Thermes de Cilaos
11 km
Cascade de Bras Rouge
9.5 km
La Chapelle, Réunion
9.8 km
Les Trois Roches
3.2 km
Roche Merveilleuse
11.3 km
Cap Noir
8.6 km
Bronchard
2.6 km
Église Saint-Martin
10.3 km
Fleurs Jaunes
9.1 km
Domaine de Clermont
10 km
Cheminée Bellemène
10.8 km
Bassin Vital
11.2 km
Piton Benoune
11.4 km
Église de la Sainte-Famille de Bellemène
11.1 km
Chapelle de Marla, cirque de Mafate
6.1 km
Église Sainte-Thérèse d'Avila
8.6 km
Piton Camp d'Henri
10.7 km
Piton Mare d'Affouche
10.7 km
Chapelle du Sacré-Cœur d'Îlet-à-Cordes
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