Col de Bellevue
A breathtaking mountain pass on Reunion Island offering stunning views of Piton des Neiges and Plaine des Palmistes. Ideal for scenic drives and picni...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for clear views
Col de Bellevue
Best Time
Best chance for clear views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking mountain pass on Reunion Island offering stunning views of Piton des Neiges and Plaine des Palmistes. Ideal for scenic drives and picnics.
"The highest point of the Route des Plaines is a magical place with incredible views."
🎯 Drive to the End
Don't stop at the first parking area! Drive to the very end for the best viewpoint of the Plaine des Palmistes.
☁️ Fog Watch
Be prepared for fog; it can appear suddenly and obscure views. Check the weather before you go.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Piton des Neiges Viewpoint
Left side before reaching the pass
Marvel at the majestic Piton des Neiges in all its splendor. A truly breathtaking sight.
Plaine des Palmistes Panorama
End of the parking area
Enjoy a spectacular vista of the Plaine des Palmistes unfolding before your eyes.
Picnic Spot
Parking area
A pleasant picnic site with numerous tables, perfect for a leisurely break amidst stunning scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Scenic Drive Ahead
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Drive to the End
Don't stop at the first parking area! Drive to the very end for the best viewpoint of the Plaine des Palmistes.
☁️ Fog Watch
Be prepared for fog; it can appear suddenly and obscure views. Check the weather before you go.
📸 Drone Views
Capture stunning aerial shots of the landscape and roads. Always fly responsibly. 
🧺 Picnic Perfect
This is a great spot for a picnic with plenty of tables available. Pack a lunch and enjoy the scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Drive to the End
Don't stop at the first parking area! Drive to the very end for the best viewpoint of the Plaine des Palmistes.
☁️ Fog Watch
Be prepared for fog; it can appear suddenly and obscure views. Check the weather before you go.
📸 Drone Views
Capture stunning aerial shots of the landscape and roads. Always fly responsibly.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
This is a great spot for a picnic with plenty of tables available. Pack a lunch and enjoy the scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Col de Bellevue for its stunning panoramic views, particularly of the Piton des Neiges and the Plaine des Palmistes. It's a popular and convenient picnic spot with ample tables. However, the unpredictable fog can sometimes obscure the much-anticipated vistas, leading to disappointment for some.
"Nice Picknick site with many tables. Make sure to drive to the end of the parking area to get to the viewpoint."
Benjamin Fischer
"Before reaching the pass, you will see a wonderful view on your left of the Piton des Neiges in all its splendor, a little further down on your right, there is a parking lot. Then you will contemplate the great spectacle that opens before your eyes along this descent which leads to the Plaine des Palmistes."
Jeannot Suzanne
"Very beautiful view of the Plaine des Palmistes. Go to the end of the parking lot to enjoy it."
Eric BILLAC
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Col de Bellevue is a mountain pass accessible by road, often part of scenic drives on Reunion Island. It's located on the Route des Plaines.
Yes, cyclists enjoy the scenic route and the challenge of the pass. The descent can be particularly exhilarating.
The road is winding and can be narrow in places, typical of mountain passes. Drive cautiously, especially in foggy conditions.
Information on direct public transport to Col de Bellevue is limited. It's generally best accessed by car or as part of a guided tour.
Yes, there is a parking area available, with tables for picnicking. Remember to drive to the end for the best views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Col de Bellevue is a natural viewpoint and pass, so there is no entrance fee. Access is free for all visitors.
As an outdoor natural site, Col de Bellevue is accessible at any time. However, daylight hours are recommended for safety and visibility.
No, tickets are not required as there is no admission fee. You can visit Col de Bellevue spontaneously.
The main consideration is weather. Fog can significantly impact visibility and driving conditions. Respect any local signage.
Yes, Col de Bellevue is open year-round. However, weather conditions can vary significantly by season.
📸 📸 Photography
The primary photo opportunities are the panoramic views of the Piton des Neiges and the Plaine des Palmistes. The winding roads also make for dramatic shots.
Absolutely! Drones offer incredible perspectives of the mountain landscape and the pass itself. Ensure you follow all drone regulations.
Early mornings often provide clearer skies and softer light. However, dramatic foggy conditions can also create unique photographic moments.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the Piton des Neiges.
Yes, driving to the very end of the parking lot offers the most unobstructed views of the Plaine des Palmistes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful of road safety as you drive to the pass, and keep a close eye on children near any viewpoints. The changing weather, especially fog, can be a point of interest for kids, but ensure they stay close and are aware of their surroundings. It's a great place for them to appreciate the scale of the mountains and the vastness of the plains.
🚴 Cyclists and Adventurers
Many cyclists use this pass as part of longer rides exploring the island's mountainous interior. Drone enthusiasts will find Col de Bellevue a paradise for aerial photography, capturing the dramatic curves of the road and the sweeping landscapes.
+1 Remember to always fly responsibly and be aware of any local regulations. The 'ramparts' mentioned in some descriptions refer to the dramatic road edges, offering unique photographic opportunities. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Scenic Route
+1When approaching Col de Bellevue, keep an eye out for the viewpoint on your left, offering a spectacular outlook of the Piton des Neiges. This is a prime spot for photos and a moment to appreciate the island's volcanic grandeur. Further along, the descent reveals the vast expanse of the Plaine des Palmistes, a landscape that stretches out before you.
It's important to note that weather conditions can change rapidly in these elevated areas. Fog is a frequent visitor, and while it can add a mystical atmosphere, it significantly reduces visibility. Drivers should be prepared for sudden changes and maintain a safe speed.
The Magic of the Views
However, the most celebrated vista is arguably the one looking towards the Plaine des Palmistes. Driving to the end of the parking area reveals a sweeping panorama of this fertile plain, a stark contrast to the rugged mountains. This view is frequently highlighted by visitors as a must-see, providing a sense of the island's diverse geography.
While the views are the main draw, the atmosphere at Col de Bellevue is also noteworthy. It's a place where you can pause, breathe in the mountain air, and soak in the natural beauty. Some visitors even mention encountering 'aliens' in jest, perhaps referring to the otherworldly feel of the landscape on a clear day.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit