Sentier de la Chapelle
A name for two distinct experiences: a challenging Reunion Island hike to a narrow gorge, or a popular halal buffet in France.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Sentier de la Chapelle
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A name for two distinct experiences: a challenging Reunion Island hike to a narrow gorge, or a popular halal buffet in France.
"Discover Reunion's stunning gorge or indulge in a hearty halal buffet – choose your Sentier de la Chapelle adventure!"
Pack for the Gorge 🩱
Bring swimwear and water-friendly sandals to fully explore the Chapelle gorge in Cilaos.
Sturdy Footwear Essential 👟
The Cilaos trail can be slippery and rocky; good hiking boots are a must for safety and comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Narrow Gorge
Cilaos, Reunion Island
A breathtaking, narrow gorge reached after a challenging 14km trek. A must-see for its unique natural beauty.
Panoramic Views
Cilaos, Reunion Island
The trail offers stunning, sweeping vistas of the Cilaos landscape. Perfect for photography enthusiasts.
All-You-Can-Eat Buffet
Saint-Brice-sous-Forêt, France
Experience a popular halal buffet with a wide variety of grilled meats, seafood, and vegetarian options.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Choose Your Adventure: Cilaos or Saint-Brice?
Hiking Prep for Reunion's Chapelle Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for the Gorge 🩱
Bring swimwear and water-friendly sandals to fully explore the Chapelle gorge in Cilaos.
Sturdy Footwear Essential 👟
The Cilaos trail can be slippery and rocky; good hiking boots are a must for safety and comfort.
Buffet Strategy 🍽️
Arrive early for the best selection at the Saint-Brice buffet, as popular items can run out.
Check Weather Conditions ☁️
The Cilaos trail can be hazardous in wet weather due to slippery paths and potential rockfalls.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for the Gorge 🩱
Bring swimwear and water-friendly sandals to fully explore the Chapelle gorge in Cilaos.
Sturdy Footwear Essential 👟
The Cilaos trail can be slippery and rocky; good hiking boots are a must for safety and comfort.
Buffet Strategy 🍽️
Arrive early for the best selection at the Saint-Brice buffet, as popular items can run out.
Check Weather Conditions ☁️
The Cilaos trail can be hazardous in wet weather due to slippery paths and potential rockfalls.
Book Ahead for Weekends 📅
For the Saint-Brice buffet, especially on weekends, consider booking in advance due to high demand.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Sentier de la Chapelle is a dual-destination name. In Cilaos, it's a challenging but rewarding hike to a stunning gorge, praised for its panoramic views. In Saint-Brice, it's a popular halal buffet restaurant known for its variety, though arriving early is recommended for the best selection.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sentier de la Chapelle in Cilaos, Reunion Island, is typically accessed by car. Parking is available near the trailhead. The hike itself is the primary mode of transport to the gorge.
The restaurant, often referred to as Steak Factory or Planet Wok, is located at 8, Sentier de la Chapelle Saint-Nicolas, 95350 Saint-Brice-sous-Forêt. It's accessible by car, with parking available. 
While public transport exists in Reunion, reaching the specific trailhead for the Sentier de la Chapelle in Cilaos might require multiple connections and is less direct than driving.
Ride-sharing services might be available in Reunion, but coverage to more remote trailheads like the Sentier de la Chapelle can be inconsistent. It's best to confirm availability beforehand.
While not explicitly mentioned in social media, local tour operators in Cilaos may offer guided hikes to the Sentier de la Chapelle, providing valuable insights and safety.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Sentier de la Chapelle hike in Cilaos is a natural trail and does not require an entrance fee or tickets. It's free to access.
As a natural hiking trail, the Sentier de la Chapelle in Cilaos is accessible at all hours. However, hiking during daylight is strongly recommended for safety.
The buffet at Steak Factory in Saint-Brice costs around €18 per person on weekdays (lunch) and €25 on evenings and weekends. Prices may vary.
While not always mandatory, booking ahead for the buffet at Sentier de la Chapelle (Saint-Brice) is advisable, especially for weekend visits, as it can get very busy.
There are no age restrictions for the Sentier de la Chapelle hike, but it is a challenging trek suitable for those with good physical fitness. Children should be supervised.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is considered moderately challenging, covering 8km round trip with approximately 700m of elevation gain, taking around 5 hours.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, comfortable clothing, and bring swimwear and water sandals for the gorge. Sun protection is also recommended.
The Saint-Brice location offers a halal all-you-can-eat buffet featuring grilled meats, kebabs, seafood, and vegetarian options.
Due to the elevation gain and terrain, it's recommended for hikers with some experience. Beginners should be prepared for a strenuous workout.
Be cautious of potential rockfalls and slippery conditions, especially after rain. Stick to the marked path and be aware of your surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
The narrow gorge in Cilaos offers dramatic, unique shots. The panoramic views along the trail are also spectacular, especially during golden hour.
Yes, you can take photos inside the gorge, but be mindful of the slippery surfaces and the need for water-friendly footwear if you plan to explore deeper.
The Saint-Brice location is more about the dining experience. While you can photograph the food, it's not a scenic photography spot like the Cilaos trail.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the best light for photography on the Cilaos trail, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the landscape's beauty.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive views and the narrowness of the gorge.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
In contrast, the Sentier de la Chapelle in Saint-Brice offers a family-friendly dining experience. The all-you-can-eat buffet format is usually a hit with kids, providing plenty of choices to satisfy picky eaters. The variety of food, from grilled items to potential kid-friendly sides, makes it a relaxed option for a family meal.
+1🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers
+1For those seeking a different kind of adventure, the buffet experience in Saint-Brice can be an adventure in culinary exploration. Trying a wide variety of grilled meats and international dishes in an all-you-can-eat format can be a fun challenge for food enthusiasts.
+1🍽️ Foodies
+2While not a culinary destination, the Cilaos hike offers a different kind of sensory experience. The satisfaction of completing a challenging trek and the stunning natural beauty can be considered a feast for the eyes and the spirit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Cilaos Hiking Experience
Hikers are advised to be prepared for challenging terrain. The path can be slippery, especially after rainfall, and there's a risk of rockfalls in certain sections, so caution is paramount.
Many visitors recommend bringing swimwear and water-friendly sandals to fully experience the gorge, suggesting that exploring its interior is a highlight. The natural beauty and the sense of adventure make this hike a memorable experience for those seeking to connect with Reunion's dramatic landscapes. For the best experience, it's advisable to start the hike in the morning to avoid the midday heat and potential afternoon cloud cover. Ensure you have adequate water, sun protection, and wear sturdy hiking boots. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking views and the unique opportunity to explore a stunning natural wonder.
Dining at Sentier de la Chapelle, Saint-Brice
+2 The buffet aims to cater to various tastes, including vegetarian options, making it a versatile choice for groups. Visitors often praise the quality and variety of the food, with many highlighting the delicious kebabs and grilled items.
However, some reviews suggest that arriving later in the day or during peak times can mean that not all dishes are fully replenished, impacting the overall selection. Therefore, arriving earlier, especially on weekdays for lunch, is often recommended to get the best experience. The pricing structure typically involves a lower cost for weekday lunches and a higher price for evenings and weekends.
This makes it an attractive option for a hearty meal, but it's wise to check current prices and consider making a reservation, particularly for weekend visits, to secure a table and enjoy the full buffet spread. 
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