Reunion Island offers a unique blend of European influence and tropical island charm. Situated east of Madagascar and southwest of Mauritius, Reunion is a relatively undiscovered gem for travellers. Known for its volcanic landscapes and pristine beaches, the island has something for everyone, from nature enthusiasts to those looking for a tranquil escape. In this guide, we explore the hallmark features of 3-star Reunion resorts, helping you discover what makes this destination the epitome of tropical elegance and comfort.

The island’s climate is tropical, with warm weather year-round, making it an attractive destination no matter the season. The dry season, from May to November, is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the natural wonders of the island. The wet season, from December to April, is characterized by brief tropical showers, but it still offers plenty of sunshine for beachgoers. From luxurious 5-star Reunion Resorts to more affordable 4-star Reunion, Reunion offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference.

For travellers seeking mid-range accommodations, 3-star Reunion resorts strike a perfect balance between affordability and comfort. These accommodations provide modern amenities in scenic locations, and easy access to both the island’s natural wonders and vibrant local culture.

Why Choose 3-Star Resorts in Reunion?

3-star Reunion resorts offer travellers the perfect balance between comfort, affordability, and an authentic experience of the island. With their range of modern amenities and prime locations, 3-star resorts provide all the essentials for a memorable stay, while also offering a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

One of the main benefits of 3-star Reunion accommodation options is affordable luxury. These resorts often feature comfortable rooms, on-site restaurants, swimming pools, and easy access to the island’s beautiful beaches and natural attractions.

Guests can enjoy these conveniences without overspending, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers who still want a degree of comfort and service.

3-star Reunion resorts frequently emphasize local experiences, offering a more personalized stay. Whether through locally inspired design, Creole cuisine, or partnerships with nearby tour operators, these resorts connect visitors with the island’s culture.

Compared to lower-tier options like hostels or guesthouses, 3-star Reunion resorts provide a higher standard of comfort and more amenities, providing guests a relaxing base to return to after exploring the island. 3-star resorts in Reunion offer a well-rounded and enjoyable stay for a wide range of travellers, from couples to families and adventurous solo travellers.

Amenities to Expect in 3-Star Resorts

Staying at a 3-star Reunion resort provides travellers with a solid mix of comfort and convenience. Typically, these resorts offer essential amenities designed to meet the needs of a broad range of guests, resulting in a pleasant and hassle-free stay.

One of the most common amenities found in 3-star Reunion hotels is free Wi-Fi, allowing guests to stay connected during their trip, whether for personal or work-related purposes.

On-site dining is another key feature, with many resorts offering restaurants that serve a mix of local Creole dishes and international cuisine, allowing visitors to enjoy a taste of Reunion’s diverse food culture without leaving the property.

Outdoor pools are also a standard offering, perfect for cooling off during the island’s warm, tropical days. Many 3-star Resorts resorts include sun loungers and shaded areas, making it easy to relax poolside. For those seeking a more active vacation, some resorts may also provide access to fitness facilities, tennis courts, or water sports equipment.

In addition to these core amenities, 3-star Reunion accommodation options often offer extra services to elevate the guest experience. Some resorts may also organize guided tours, taking guests on excursions to explore Reunion’s natural beauty, such as volcano hikes and trips to nearby waterfalls.

Family-friendly facilities are another great perk of many 3-star Reunion resorts, with options like children’s pools and playgrounds, or babysitting services. These resorts cater to families, offering accommodations that can accommodate larger groups while providing amenities that keep both adults and children entertained.

Overall, 3-star Reunion hotels provide a well-rounded mix of essential comforts and thoughtful extras, providing guests with everything they need for a memorable and enjoyable stay.

Popular Areas to Stay in Reunion

When choosing where to stay in Reunion, travellers have a range of diverse regions to explore, each offering its own unique atmosphere and attractions. Some of the most popular areas include Saint-Gilles, Saint-Pierre, and Saint-Denis, each catering to different types of travellers and preferences.

Saint-Gilles
Located on the island’s west coast, Saint-Gilles is a prime destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.

Known for its stunning beaches, such as Plage de l’Hermitage, this area is perfect for sunbathing, snorkelling, and swimming in the calm lagoon waters.

Saint-Gilles also has a lively atmosphere with a variety of beachfront restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it a hotspot for travellers looking to enjoy vibrant nightlife and socializing after a day at the beach. The town’s location also makes it a great base for exploring nearby attractions like the beautiful Mafate cirque and the coastal scenery along the west.

Saint-Pierre
For those looking to immerse themselves in a blend of nature and culture, Saint-Pierre, located on the southern coast, is an ideal choice. This area is known for its laid-back vibe and rich Creole culture, with vibrant markets, historical sites, and authentic local cuisine.

Saint-Pierre offers easy access to the island’s natural wonders, such as the wild landscapes of the Sud Sauvage and the Piton de la Fournaise volcano, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. The area’s beach, though smaller than Saint-Gilles, is popular for surfing and enjoying a more relaxed, authentic coastal experience.

Saint-Denis
As the capital of Reunion, Saint-Denis is the cultural and administrative heart of the island. This city is perfect for travellers who enjoy a more urban experience, with its array of museums and historical landmarks, filled with colonial architecture.

Saint-Denis is also home to bustling markets, chic boutiques, and a variety of restaurants offering both local and international cuisine. While it’s not known for beaches, its proximity to the island’s northern mountains makes it an excellent base for those interested in hiking and nature excursions.

Saint-Denis provides a perfect blend of culture and history, with easy access to both the island’s natural and modern offerings.

Each of these areas in Reunion provides a distinct experience, making it easy for travellers to find 3-star Reunion accommodation that suits their interests, whether they’re looking for a beach getaway or prefer more cultural exploration and adventure.

Activities and Excursions Near 3-Star Resorts

One of the advantages of staying in a 3-star Reunion resort is the easy access to a variety of exciting activities and excursions that showcase the island’s natural beauty and rich culture. From thrilling hikes to relaxing beach days, there’s something for every type of traveller, and most resorts are happy to assist in organizing or providing information on these experiences.

Hiking in the Cirque de Mafate

For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to the Cirque de Mafate is a must. This remote, rugged caldera is only accessible by foot or helicopter, making it an ideal destination for hikers seeking adventure and stunning landscapes.

Many 3-star Reunion resorts, particularly those located near Saint-Gilles or Saint-Paul, offer guided hikes or provide maps and information for self-guided treks through Mafate’s scenic mountain paths.

Waterfall Tours

Reunion is known for its breathtaking waterfalls, many of which are just a short drive from popular 3-star resort areas. Sites like the Cascade de Grand Galet and the Langevin Waterfalls offer awe-inspiring views and opportunities for swimming in natural pools.

3-star Reunion accommodation options often help arrange guided tours to these waterfalls or provide recommendations for visiting on your own.

Snorkelling and Water Sports
For those looking to explore the island’s marine life, many 3-star Reunion hotels near Saint-Gilles and the western coast are situated close to snorkelling spots along the coral reef.

The calm waters of Plage de l’Hermitage are perfect for beginners, while more experienced snorkelers can venture to deeper areas. Also, water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are popular in this region, and resorts can help coordinate equipment rentals or book lessons for guests.

Cultural Tours

Reunion’s unique blend of Creole, African, Indian, and European influences makes cultural tours a fascinating experience. Many resorts in areas like Saint-Pierre and Saint-Denis can connect guests with local guides who offer tours of historical sites, traditional markets, and even vanilla plantations.

These tours provide a deeper understanding of Reunion’s heritage and allow visitors to taste local cuisine, interact with artisans, and learn about the island’s colonial past.

Volcano Exploration

No trip to Reunion is complete without a visit to the iconic Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Guests staying at 3-star Reunion accommodation in the south or central parts of the island can easily access guided tours or independent drives to the volcano.

Many resorts offer day trip packages that include transportation, allowing guests to experience the dramatic volcanic landscape without worrying about logistics.

Best Time to Visit and Travel Tips

When planning a trip to Reunion, choosing the right time of year can elevate your experience based on weather, events, and the types of activities you want to enjoy. Reunion has a tropical climate with two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Reunion is during the dry season, which runs from May to November. During these months, the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, exploring waterfalls, and relaxing on the beaches. Temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C, making it comfortable for both daytime excursions and evening strolls.

The wet season, from December to April, brings warmer temperatures and more rainfall. While this period can still be a good time to visit for those who enjoy fewer crowds, it’s important to be aware that tropical storms or cyclones can occur.

This season is also hotter, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C and high humidity. However, for travellers interested in seeing Reunion’s waterfalls at their most dramatic or watching the lava flows from Piton de la Fournaise, the wet season has its own appeal.

Events to Consider

Reunion hosts several festivals throughout the year that might influence when you choose to visit. The Festival Liberté Métisse in December celebrates the island’s cultural diversity and abolition of slavery, offering a rich experience of local traditions, music, and food.

The Dipavali Festival, which takes place in October or November, is a vibrant celebration of the Indian community’s culture and Hindu traditions, complete with light displays and cultural performances.

Travel Tips

• Getting Around – Reunion has a good network of roads, and renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the island at your own pace, especially for reaching more remote areas like the Cirque de Mafate or Piton de la Fournaise. Taxis are available in towns, but they can be expensive for longer distances. Public buses operate between major towns, but schedules can be limited in rural areas, so plan ahead.
• Currency – As a French overseas department, Reunion uses the Euro (€) as its official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it’s still a good idea to carry some cash, especially when traveling to smaller villages or local markets.
• Language – The official language of Reunion is French, and it’s spoken by the majority of the population. However, Reunion Creole is also widely spoken, especially among locals in more rural areas. While many people working in the tourism sector speak some English, it’s helpful to know a few basic French phrases for smoother communication, particularly when navigating local transport or smaller establishments.

Conclusion

Reunion Island is a captivating destination that offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural richness, all while being accessible through a variety of comfortable and affordable 3-star Reunion resorts.

Staying at a 3-star Reunion hotel offers the ideal balance between affordability and comfort, giving you access to essential amenities and easy connections to the island’s attractions without the high price tag of luxury accommodations. With thoughtful extras like guided tours and family-friendly services, these resorts provide that your stay is both relaxing and enjoyable.

By choosing the best time to visit and being mindful of local customs and practical travel tips, you can fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Reunion Island. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Reunion’s 3-star resorts offer an unforgettable base for exploring this enchanting island.