Hikes
The great crossing: Grande Montagne → Gravier → Saint-François → Pointe Coton
The long version that crosses Rodrigues from west to east, from the forest heart of Grande Montagne to the beach at Pointe Coton. Plan a bus for the return.
This is the great crossing of Rodrigues. A full day of walking that strings together the endemic forest of Grande Montagne, the village of Gravier, the hamlet of Saint-François and the beach at Pointe Coton.
The route
- Start: Grande Montagne — in the heart of the nature reserve
- Gravier — a small rural village with an authentic feel
- Saint-François — possible lunch stop (at Robert and Solange’s, or at Dana’s)
- Finish: Pointe Coton — a well-earned swim on one of the island’s most beautiful beaches
The bus back
From Pointe Coton, take the bus back up to Grande Montagne to collect the car. Ask about the timetable in the morning: buses are not frequent and the last departures can be early in the late afternoon.
Practical info
- Duration: full day (allow 6 to 8 hours of walking including breaks)
- Difficulty: hard, significant elevation gain
- Bring along: hiking shoes, 2 L of water, snacks, a cap
- Tip: set off early in the morning to finish before the midday heat