Forêt de Bélouve Cloud Forest Trail

The Forêt de Bélouve is a cloud forest on a high plateau above Salazie in north-east Réunion, known for its tamarind trees, tree ferns and frequent mist. This loop begins at the Gîte de Bélouve, reached from the Grand Îlet direction by a forest road for which a 4WD vehicle is recommended; walkers can instead hike up from Salazie, which adds about three hours. The loop is about 10 km and takes three to four hours, with roughly 300 m of ascent, placing it in the moderate category. The trail follows a mixture of wooden boardwalk and steps, packed earth and root-laced ground, and much of it is shaded by dense canopy. The forest is damp for most of the year, so surfaces are often slippery and mud is common. Landmarks include stands of giant tamarind trees with their twisted trunks, moss-covered clearings, and viewpoints toward the Trou de Fer gorge area nearby, where visibility depends on cloud. The gîte near the start offers lodging and meals when booked in advance, and it serves as a shelter if rain sets in. Water is not reliably available along the loop, so hikers should bring their own. Because the plateau is often wrapped in mist, a rain jacket and light layers are essential, and walkers should keep to the marked path to avoid becoming disoriented. Shorter outings are possible by turning around at the first forest clearings. The trail is a quieter alternative to the busier summit hikes on the island and suits those who enjoy atmospheric forest scenery. Drivers should take care on the narrow, wet forest road and check conditions locally before heading up.