Piton Plaine des Fougères, Mountain summit and viewpoint in Salazie and Sainte-Marie, Réunion, France.

Piton Plaine des Fougères is a summit of dark volcanic rock reaching 1,800 metres, on the mountain rampart that sets the Plaine des Fougères plateau above the northern part of the Salazie cirque. The communes of Salazie and Sainte-Marie meet along its ridge, and it is the highest point of Sainte-Marie. Dense vegetation covers its lower slopes, with bare rock and pale vertical streaks on the upper face.

This peak has historically marked the boundary between the communes of Salazie and Sainte-Marie, serving as the highest point within Sainte-Marie's territory. The peak formed through volcanic processes that have shaped the landscape for centuries.

The summit marks the border between Salazie and Sainte-Marie and is the highest point of Sainte-Marie, a fact that shapes how the two communes share the mountain. Walkers on the ridge pass from one commune to the other without any visible marker, since the boundary follows the terrain itself.

It is best to visit this area early in the morning to avoid clouds and mist that can obscure views later in the day. The terrain requires sturdy hiking boots and sure footing on volcanic surfaces.

The summit is the highest point of Sainte-Marie, yet it stands on the boundary ridge with Salazie, above the Plaine des Fougères plateau that overlooks the northern part of the Salazie cirque. Walkers on the crest pass from one commune to the other without noticing.