La Possession is a charming city located on the beautiful island of Réunion, which is an overseas department of France in the Indian Ocean. It offers a unique blend of French and Creole cultures, stunning landscapes, and a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Let’s explore some of the best places and things to do in La Possession, France.
1. Piton Maïdo
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Start your visit to La Possession with a trip to Piton Maïdo, a breathtaking viewpoint located in the nearby Cirque de Mafate. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the rugged mountains, deep valleys, and the dramatic coastline. It’s an ideal spot for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers.
2. Le Port de La Possession
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This bustling port is a hub of activity and a great place to experience the vibrant atmosphere of La Possession. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, watch the fishing boats come and go, or relax at one of the waterfront cafés while enjoying delicious seafood.
3. Domaine de Maison Rouge
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Explore the Domaine de Maison Rouge, a historic plantation house that dates back to the 18th century. The estate offers guided tours where you can learn about the history of the plantation, visit the beautiful gardens, and discover the rich cultural heritage of the region.
4. Parc des Palmiers
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Located in the heart of La Possession, Parc des Palmiers is a lovely park perfect for leisurely walks and picnics. It features lush green spaces, exotic palm trees, and a children’s playground, making it an ideal spot for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
5. Local Markets
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Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the vibrant markets in La Possession. The Saint-Paul Market, located nearby, is particularly famous. Here you can find a wide range of fresh produce, spices, handicrafts, and traditional Creole snacks. It’s a great place to interact with locals and experience the authentic flavors of the island.
6. Hiking and Nature Trails
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La Possession is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, offering numerous hiking and nature trails for outdoor enthusiasts. From easy coastal walks to more challenging mountain hikes, there’s something for every level of fitness. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes of Réunion Island.
7. Beaches
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Although La Possession itself doesn’t have beaches, it is a short drive away from some of the most beautiful coastal areas on the island. Visit the nearby beaches of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains or Boucan Canot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports such as surfing or snorkeling.
8. Local Cuisine
Indulge in the unique flavors of Creole cuisine while in La Possession. Try dishes like “rougail saucisse” (a spicy sausage stew), “cari” (a curry dish), or “bouchons” (deep-fried fritters). The island’s cuisine is a delightful fusion of French, African, Indian, and Chinese influences, creating a gastronomic experience like no other.
9. Jardin de l’État
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Located in the neighboring city of Saint-Denis, Jardin de l’État is a magnificent botanical garden that showcases the diverse flora and fauna of Réunion Island. Take a leisurely stroll through the park, admire the exotic plant species, and relax in the tranquil surroundings.
10. Kayaking and Canyoning
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La Possession is surrounded by rivers and canyons, providing thrilling opportunities for kayaking and canyoning adventures. Embark on a guided tour and navigate the rapids of the island’s waterways or descend into the canyons for an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst breathtaking natural scenery.
11. Maison Carrère
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Discover the rich architectural heritage of La Possession by visiting Maison Carrère, a beautifully preserved Creole house. This traditional wooden building showcases the island’s architectural style and offers insights into the daily life of the island’s inhabitants in the past.
12. Explore the Ravine à Malheur
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Located near La Possession, Ravine à Malheur is a stunning natural gorge that is perfect for hiking and nature exploration. Follow the trails through the dense vegetation, listen to the sounds of the flowing water, and marvel at the impressive rock formations along the way.
13. Visit a Rum Distillery
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Réunion Island is known for its production of excellent rum, and La Possession is home to several rum distilleries. Take a tour of one of these distilleries to learn about the rum-making process, sample different varieties, and perhaps purchase a bottle as a memento of your visit.
14. Attend Local Festivals
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Experience the vibrant cultural scene of La Possession by participating in local festivals and events. The city celebrates a range of festivities throughout the year, including music festivals, street parades, and religious ceremonies that showcase the island’s diverse traditions and customs.
15. Scenic Drives
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La Possession is well-connected by roads that offer scenic drives through picturesque landscapes. Take a drive along the Route du Littoral, which hugs the coastline and provides breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Alternatively, explore the winding roads that lead to the island’s interior, offering glimpses of verdant valleys and charming villages.
16. Whale and Dolphin Watching
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If you’re visiting La Possession between June and October, embark on a boat excursion to witness the incredible sight of humpback whales migrating off the coast of Réunion Island. Spotting these majestic creatures, as well as dolphins, in their natural habitat is a truly unforgettable experience.
17. Visit the Musée de Villèle
Located nearby in Saint-Gilles-les-Hauts, the Musée de Villèle is a fascinating museum housed in a historic sugar plantation. Discover the island’s colonial history, learn about the sugar industry’s impact, and explore the museum’s art exhibitions that showcase local and international artists.
18 Water Sports
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La Possession and its surrounding areas offer fantastic opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. Try your hand at surfing, kiteboarding, or stand-up paddleboarding at the nearby beaches. The warm waters of the Indian Ocean and consistent trade winds make it an ideal playground for water sports lovers.
19. Visit Saint-Paul
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Just a short distance from La Possession, the town of Saint-Paul is worth exploring. Visit its lively market, stroll through the charming streets lined with colonial architecture, and visit the historic Saint-Paul Church. The town also hosts a popular street market on Fridays and Saturdays, where you can find a variety of local products and crafts.
20. Cultural Experiences
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Immerse yourself in the vibrant Creole culture of La Possession by attending traditional music and dance performances or participating in Creole cooking classes. Engage with locals, learn about their customs and traditions, and gain a deeper appreciation for the unique cultural heritage of Réunion Island.
21. Visit Le Maido Adventure Park
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Located in the picturesque village of La Rivière des Galets, just a short drive from La Possession, Le Maido Adventure Park offers thrilling outdoor activities for the whole family. Enjoy ziplining through the treetops, navigating rope courses, and taking on other exciting challenges in a beautiful natural setting.
22. Explore the Gorges de la Rivière Sainte-Suzanne
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Venture out to the nearby Gorges de la Rivière Sainte-Suzanne for a mesmerizing adventure. Hike through the canyons, marvel at the towering cliffs, and take refreshing dips in natural pools along the way. The gorges offer a unique and awe-inspiring landscape to explore.
23. Visit the Kelonia Sea Turtle Observatory
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Head to the Kelonia Sea Turtle Observatory in nearby Saint-Leu to learn about the conservation efforts dedicated to protecting sea turtles in the region. Explore the interactive exhibits, observe the turtles in their natural habitat, and gain a deeper understanding of these incredible marine creatures.
24. Explore the Route des Tamarins
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Take a scenic drive along the Route des Tamarins, a well-known highway that connects La Possession to other towns and attractions on the island. Enjoy the picturesque views of the coastline, mountains, and lush landscapes as you travel through this well-maintained and beautiful road.
25. Discover the Chaudron Botanical Garden
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Located in the neighboring city of Saint-Denis, the Chaudron Botanical Garden is a tropical paradise filled with a wide variety of plant species. Stroll through the lush gardens, admire the colorful flowers, and learn about the unique flora and fauna that thrive on Réunion Island.
26. Mountain Biking
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For adventure enthusiasts, La Possession and its surrounding areas offer excellent opportunities for mountain biking. Explore the diverse terrain, from challenging mountain trails to scenic coastal routes, and experience the adrenaline rush of biking through stunning natural landscapes.
27. Golfing
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If you’re a golf enthusiast, head to the nearby Golf Club de Bourbon in Saint-Denis. This 18-hole golf course offers a challenging and scenic setting, with stunning views of the Indian Ocean and the mountains as you play.
Places and Things To Do