Pitons Sales, Summit in Réunion, France
Piton des Sales is a summit on Reunion Island that rises to 1546 meters (5072 feet) in the midst of volcanic rock and terrain. The peak sits among other dramatic geological features shaped by the island's volcanic past.
The summit was shaped by repeated eruptions from Piton des Neiges over time, which gradually built up the current landscape. Volcanic activity over many centuries created the geological structure we see today.
Residents of Réunion use the term piton to refer to the island's peaks, a naming tradition rooted in local culture and language. This word choice reflects how mountains shape the way people talk about and relate to their surroundings.
The climb demands good physical fitness and follows marked trails within Reunion National Park. Weather can change quickly at higher elevations, so bring proper footwear and layers to stay comfortable.
This peak is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site established in 2010 that also includes the island's cirques and ridges. The designation highlights the exceptional geological value and scientific importance of the entire area.
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