St Denis, Reunion

Saint-Denis is the largest commune and capital of the French overseas department of Réunion. It is located at the island's northernmost point, close to the mouth of the Rivière Saint-Denis.

St-Denis is also the only location on the island where you'll find a number of cultural sites, including museums. For example, the Musee Leon Dierx boasts quite an impressive collection of modern art. Founded nearly a century ago, this museum includes pieces by famous artists like Picasso and Gauguin. The Museum d'Histoire Naturelle provides visitors with a good overview of the natural history of the islands of the Indian Ocean, including fascinating exhibits on indigenous animals past and present.
Architecture lovers will want to explore the unique Creole homes that dominate the town. A stroll down the street is a pleasant afternoon activity and a few of these homes, like Mansion Folio, are open to the general public for tours.

Things to See & Do

* Musee Leon Dierx - museum
* Creole architecture
* Museum d'Histoire Naturelle
* Le Barachois – seafront park
* Jardin de l’Etat

General Information

Cruise Season – Jan - Dec
Currency – French Franc
Language – French
Population – 143,000 approx
Land Area – 142.79 km
Electricity – 2 round pins European style or with a round pin below
Time – GMT plus four hours
International Country Telephone Code – + 230

Travel Links – It's not possible to fly direct to Reunion from the UK, Canada, the USA or Australia. Travellers will need to connect in Europe, usually Paris, or in Singapore for those flying from Australia. Air France are the main carrier flying into Reunion's Roland Garros airport.

An alternative is to fly to Mauritius and catch one of the short flights between the two islands with Air Mauritius; British Airways fly direct to Mauritius from London, and Emirates fly direct from Dubai.

It's possible to travel from Mauritius to Reunion by the ferry 'Mauritius Pride'; the overnight journey takes around 12 hours.