Chemin des Anglais - Image 1
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Chemin des Anglais

4.6
·491k reviews·Saint-Denis, Réunion

The legendary, steep, and technical final section of the Grand Raid, testing the limits of endurance with breathtaking Reunion Island views.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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Chemin des Anglais - Image 1

Chemin des Anglais

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The legendary, steep, and technical final section of the Grand Raid, testing the limits of endurance with breathtaking Reunion Island views.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The 'quad destroyer' that's the iconic, demanding final section of the Diagonale des Fous."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots

Essential for the technical, steep terrain. Don't underestimate the need for good grip.

💧 Hydration is Crucial

Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. The heat can be intense.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Final Push

The Final Push

End of the Diagonale des Fous

The iconic, demanding final section of the Grand Raid, testing even seasoned ultra-runners.

Instagram+1
Quad-Destroying Slopes

Quad-Destroying Slopes

Various points along the trail

Experience steep, technical ascents and descents that will challenge your leg muscles.

Instagram
Panoramic Views

Panoramic Views

Higher elevations

Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Reunion Island landscape as you ascend.

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Planning Your Visit

Tackle the Terrain

The Chemin des Anglais is known for its steep, technical, and often hot conditions. Prepare for a challenging hike, especially if you're tackling it as part of a longer trek like the Diagonale des Fous. Proper footwear and hydration are non-negotiable. Instagram+1

Timing is Key

While beautiful year-round, consider the heat. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer more comfortable temperatures for hiking. Check local conditions, as extreme heat can make the trail particularly arduous. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

⛰️ Le Chemin des Anglais, la dernière partie emblématique de la Diagonale des fous. Des pentes raides, une chaleur étouffante et un terrain très technique pour terminer en beauté 🥵 ▶️ Le docu “DIAGONALE” est à retrouver sur Uptrack (lien en bio) (🇬🇧) The Chemin des Anglais, the emblematic and demanding final section of the Diagonale des fous. Steep slopes, sweltering heat and highly technica...
uptrackplus
1.3K likes • 41.1K views

👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots

Essential for the technical, steep terrain. Don't underestimate the need for good grip. Instagram+1

💧 Hydration is Crucial

Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. The heat can be intense. Instagram

"Chemin des Anglais" : The quads Destroyer! . @reuniontourisme | @grandraidreunion | @salomonrunning #reuniontourisme #LaReunion #gotoreunion #grandraid #diagonaledesfous #ileintense #tomorrowisyours #trail #trailrunning #ultratrail #ultrarunning #run #chemindesanglais #reunionisland
mathieu__blanchard
7K likes • 194.1K views
Retour en image sur le chemin des anglais après plus de 163 km parcouru #diagonaledesfous ⏫📈 #diag #DDF #grandraid2024 #trailer #course #ultratrail #iledelareunion #viralreels #viralpost #fypviralシ #viralreelsシ #fyp Grand Raid Réunion - Officiel
jonathan_trailer
10 likes • 161 views

☀️ Sun Protection

Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a must. Much of the trail is exposed. Instagram

⏱️ Allow Ample Time

Even shorter sections can take longer than expected due to the challenging terrain. Instagram+1

Chemin des Anglais 10km 500 m dénivelé
coco.lapin
39 likes • 2.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots

Essential for the technical, steep terrain. Don't underestimate the need for good grip. Instagram+1

💧 Hydration is Crucial

Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. The heat can be intense. Instagram

☀️ Sun Protection

Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a must. Much of the trail is exposed. Instagram

⏱️ Allow Ample Time

Even shorter sections can take longer than expected due to the challenging terrain. Instagram+1

📸 Capture the Views

The scenery is spectacular, so bring your camera or phone for photos. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Chemin des Anglais is revered for its challenging and rewarding terrain, especially as the final stage of the Grand Raid. Hikers and runners praise its demanding nature and the spectacular views it offers. However, its difficulty means it's not for the faint of heart or the unprepared.

What People Like

Iconic trail challenge
Spectacular mountain views
Sense of accomplishment

What People Dislike

Extremely steep and technical
Can be very hot

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Chemin des Anglais is often accessed as part of the Grand Raid or as a standalone hike. Access points can vary, but it's typically reached via roads leading into the mountainous interior of Reunion Island. Research specific trailheads based on your intended route. Instagram+1

Public transport options to trailheads can be limited. Renting a car or arranging a taxi/shuttle service is often more practical for reaching the starting points of the hike. Instagram

The specific access points depend on the route you plan to take. For those participating in the Grand Raid, the start and end points are clearly defined. For day hikers, research local trail maps for common entry points. Instagram+1

While roads lead to the general mountainous areas, direct driving to specific points on the trail might not be possible. Parking availability can also be an issue, especially during peak times or events. Instagram

Yes, guided tours are available, especially for those who want to experience the trail with local expertise and ensure safety. These tours often cater to different fitness levels. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

For general hiking, there are typically no entrance fees or tickets required for the Chemin des Anglais. However, if you are participating in organized events like the Grand Raid, registration and associated fees apply. Instagram+1

As a natural trail, the Chemin des Anglais is generally accessible at all times. However, hiking during daylight hours is strongly recommended for safety and visibility. Instagram

No, there isn't a booking system for casual hiking. You can visit and hike the trail whenever you wish, but be mindful of weather conditions and daylight. Instagram

Generally, no specific permits are required for day hikes on the Chemin des Anglais. However, it's always wise to check with local authorities for any temporary restrictions or regulations. Instagram

The cost of entry for the Grand Raid varies annually and depends on the specific race category. Participants should refer to the official Grand Raid website for the most up-to-date registration fees. Instagram+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Chemin des Anglais is considered a challenging hike due to its steep, technical terrain and significant elevation changes. It's often described as a 'quad destroyer.' Instagram+1

The duration varies greatly depending on your fitness level and the specific section you hike. A 10km section can take several hours, while longer treks can span many kilometers and require significant time. Instagram+1

Facilities are generally scarce on the trail itself. It's essential to carry all your supplies, including water and snacks, and be prepared to pack out everything you bring in. Instagram

Expect rugged mountain landscapes, lush vegetation, and stunning panoramic views of Reunion Island. The trail is known for its dramatic terrain. Instagram+1

Due to its technical nature and steepness, it's generally not recommended for absolute beginners. Experienced hikers with good fitness levels will find it more manageable. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Look for panoramic viewpoints, dramatic rock formations, and the challenging trail itself. The interplay of light and shadow on the steep slopes can be very photogenic. Instagram+1

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can create stunning landscapes. Instagram

A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive landscapes. A sturdy tripod might be helpful for low-light conditions, but consider the weight for hiking. Instagram

Drone regulations can be strict in natural parks and protected areas. Always check local aviation authorities and park rules before flying a drone. Instagram

Higher elevations often provide the most dramatic vistas. Keep an eye out for distinctive rock formations or challenging sections of the trail that highlight the terrain. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Chemin des Anglais, due to its steep and technical nature, is generally not recommended for families with very young children or those seeking an easy stroll. The challenging terrain can be difficult and potentially unsafe for little ones. Instagram+1

However, families with older, experienced children who are accustomed to hiking might consider tackling shorter, less demanding sections. It's crucial to assess your children's fitness levels and comfort with challenging trails. Prioritize safety and consider a guided tour if you opt for a family excursion to ensure everyone stays safe and enjoys the experience. Instagram

🏃‍♀️ Trail Runners & Ultra-Athletes

For trail runners and ultra-athletes, the Chemin des Anglais is a legendary challenge. It's the ultimate proving ground, especially as the final section of the Diagonale des Fous.TikTokInstagram The steep ascents and technical descents are designed to test endurance and skill to the absolute limit. Instagram

Runners should be well-prepared with lightweight, durable gear, including trail running shoes with exceptional grip. Hydration packs are essential, and knowledge of pacing and nutrition strategies for extreme conditions is vital. Many runners share their experiences of the mental and physical battle on this iconic stretch. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Grand Raid Connection

The Chemin des Anglais is most famously known as the iconic and demanding final section of the Grand Raid de la Réunion, also known as the Diagonale des Fous.TikTokInstagram This ultra-trail race is one of the most challenging in the world, and the Chemin des Anglais serves as the ultimate test for runners. Its steep, technical terrain and often brutal conditions are designed to push participants to their limits before they cross the finish line. Many videos and posts highlight the sheer difficulty and emotional impact of completing this section during the race. Instagram+1

For those not participating in the race, hiking this section offers a glimpse into the extreme endurance required by the athletes. It's a significant physical challenge that rewards hikers with a profound sense of accomplishment. The trail's reputation as a 'quad destroyer' is well-earned, making it a bucket-list hike for serious trekkers. Instagram

Preparing for the Challenge



Given its reputation, thorough preparation is key. Hikers should be equipped with sturdy hiking boots with excellent grip, ample water and snacks, and sun protection. The trail's steepness and technicality mean that progress can be slow, so allow ample time and pace yourself accordingly. Instagram+2

Navigating the Terrain

The Chemin des Anglais is characterized by its steep, rocky, and often uneven terrain. This isn't a casual stroll; it's a proper hike that demands attention and physical effort. The inclines can be relentless, and the descents require careful footing to avoid slips and falls. Instagram+1

Many social media posts showcase the challenging nature of the path, with hikers navigating loose rocks and steep gradients. The term 'quad destroyer' is frequently used, underscoring the intense workout your leg muscles will receive. Instagram This ruggedness, however, is also part of its allure, offering a true wilderness experience. Instagram

Essential Gear and Mindset



To safely enjoy the Chemin des Anglais, appropriate footwear is paramount. Hiking boots with good ankle support and aggressive tread are highly recommended. Instagram+1 Beyond footwear, carrying sufficient hydration is critical, as the trail can be exposed and hot, especially during midday. Instagram+1 A positive and determined mindset will also go a long way in conquering the challenging ascents and descents. Instagram

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