Gros Piton Rond, Mountain summit in La Plaine-des-Palmistes, Reunion Island, France.
Gros Piton Rond is a volcanic mountain in Reunion Island with an elevation of around 1400 meters, featuring a crater at its peak surrounded by dense forest growth. The upper slopes are covered with thick vegetation that characterizes this wooded mountain environment.
The mountain was the site of a scoria quarry that operated until the early 2000s, representing an industrial period in regional development. After the quarry's closure, the site gradually returned to its natural mountain state.
The summit has long been associated with traditional beekeeping, where local apiarists maintain hives to produce forest honey, a practice deeply rooted in the island's rural traditions.
The summit is reachable via a short trail of about 500 meters from National Road 3, requiring roughly 30 minutes of walking. The climb is straightforward and provides good access for hiking or paragliding activities at the top.
The mountain serves as a paragliding launch site with views over Petite Plaine, La Plaine des Palmistes, and Col de Bébour. This position makes it a favored location for paragliding enthusiasts who want to explore the landscape from above.
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