Anse des Cascades is one of the most spectacular natural sites on the East Coast of La Réunion. Nestled just a few minutes from the village of Sainte-Rose, this untamed cove offers a breathtaking tableau: cascades tumble down volcanic cliffs directly into the Indian Ocean, framed by tall coconut palms swaying in the sea breeze. A truly awe-inspiring place, not to be missed during any stay on the East Coast — and reachable in a matter of minutes from Villa Bigaradier.
Where Is Anse des Cascades?
Anse des Cascades lies along the RN2 (Route Nationale 2), approximately 4 km north of the Sainte-Rose village centre, within the commune of the same name (97439). The site is clearly signposted from the road.
It sits at the boundary between the agricultural lowlands of the East Coast and the Grand Brûlé — the vast lava field that sweeps down toward the sea. It is precisely this geology that creates the spectacle: rainwater collected high on the volcano’s flanks cascades over the black cliffs and merges with the ocean below.
Getting to Anse des Cascades
By car: From Sainte-Rose, take the RN2 northward toward Bois-Blanc. The Anse des Cascades car park is signposted on the right, roughly 4 km from the village centre. Allow about 5 minutes from Sainte-Rose.
Parking: A large free car park is available on site, accessible year-round. Arriving early in the morning during high season is advisable to secure a space without difficulty.
On foot: A coastal path connects Sainte-Rose to Anse des Cascades. Allow approximately 45 minutes each way. The trail runs along the clifftops and offers sweeping panoramas of the ocean — a rewarding walk in its own right.
By bus: The Car Jaune network serves the RN2. An “Anse des Cascades” stop is available on request.
What to Do at Anse des Cascades
Admire the Waterfalls
The undisputed highlight of the site is, of course, the waterfalls themselves. Sheets of water cascade down black lava cliffs and plunge directly into the sea. The volume of water varies with the seasons — during the austral summer (December to April), rainfall feeds considerably more impressive falls than during the drier winter months.
Watch the Fishermen’s Outriggers
Anse des Cascades is also a traditional fishing site. Colourful outrigger canoes are moored in the small cove, and early in the morning you may witness the fishermen hauling in their nets. An authentic and quintessentially Réunionnais scene.
Picnic Beneath the Coconut Palms
The site is equipped with picnic tables in the shade of coconut palms. It is one of the most pleasant spots for an outdoor lunch on the entire East Coast. Consider bringing provisions from the shops in Sainte-Rose.
Swimming and Snorkelling
Swimming is possible in the cove, though caution is essential: currents can be strong, particularly during periods of swell. No lifeguard is present. In calm conditions, snorkelling reveals interesting underwater scenery, with tropical fish and coral formations.
Practical Information
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Access | Free, open 24 hours |
| Parking | Free, large capacity |
| Facilities | Picnic tables, toilets |
| Distance from Sainte-Rose | 4 km (5 min by car) |
| Distance from Villa Bigaradier | 6 km (8 min by car) |
Tip: Visit Anse des Cascades in the morning, between 8 and 10 am, to enjoy the raking light on the waterfalls, avoid weekend crowds, and have the best chance of watching the fishermen at work.
Anse des Cascades from Villa Bigaradier
From Villa Bigaradier, Anse des Cascades is just 8 minutes by car — making it one of the closest natural sites to your accommodation. You can visit several times throughout your stay: at sunrise for the light and tranquillity, mid-morning for photography, or in the late afternoon for a leisurely picnic.
The villa has a secure, gated car park for your rental vehicle during your excursions. The outdoor kitchen with plancha grill also makes it easy to prepare a packed meal to enjoy beneath the coconut palms.
Nearby Attractions
Anse des Cascades combines naturally with other nearby sites for a full day’s exploration:
- Notre-Dame des Laves (2 km to the south) — the church miraculously spared by the 1977 lava flow
- Sainte-Rose village centre — shops, restaurants, Sunday morning market
- The Grand Brûlé (northward) — the lunar landscape of the Piton de la Fournaise’s most recent lava flows
- The lava tunnels — a spectacular underground network located just a few kilometres away
Stay just minutes from Anse des Cascades: Villa Bigaradier welcomes you in the heart of Sainte-Rose, 8 minutes from this exceptional site. Panoramic ocean view, tropical garden, 3-star comfort.
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