Piton de la Grande Montée, Summit in Réunion department, France
Piton de la Grande Montée is a summit on Reunion Island in the Indian Ocean with views across volcanic terrain. The hike passes through rocky passages that grow steeper as you move higher.
The summit formed roughly two million years ago when Reunion Island emerged from volcanic activity beneath the ocean. Since then, this volcanic feature has shaped the island's landscape and character.
Réunion residents maintain oral traditions about the creation of the volcanic mountains that shape their island territory.
Hikers should bring plenty of water, a flashlight, and sturdy footwear to manage the rocky terrain safely. Weather conditions can shift quickly, so it helps to be ready for sudden changes.
The summit serves as an observation point for studying volcanic activity and conducting environmental research on local ecosystems.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.