Cape Méchant is a headland of rugged cliffs that stretches along the southeastern shore of Réunion. Walk amid the jaw-dropping lap of nature, watch waves crash onto huge rocks and gaze across the perfect-blue India Ocean. The black cliffs of Cape Méchant were formed by lava spills after eruptions at the nearby volcano Piton de la Fournaise. The name translates to Cape Wicked, a reference to the pirates that once hid liquor and treasure in openings in the cliffs.
A coastal path skirts the edge of the cape and offers uninterrupted views. Peer down the cliff faces, which plunge deep into the ocean. Marvel as waves ceaselessly smash against the basalt and send white water spraying high into the air. Look for arches, caves and crevices, all eroded naturally by the elements over centuries.
As you stroll along the pathway take a moment to check out the varied flora and fauna. Look up at the tall filao and vacoa trees, the latter characterized by spiny leaves that grow in spiral formations. Keep watch for seabirds such as the white-tailed tropicbird, which is Réunion’s national bird.
There’re plenty of places to enjoy a picnic at Cape Méchant. Find grassy, tree-shaded lawns that afford open views of the ocean and areas with covered picnic tables and barbecue facilities. Bring your own food and remember to clean up when you leave.
Cape Méchant is about a 10-minute drive west from Saint-Philippe’s town center. The most convenient way to get here is via car. You can park on the streets in the village set back from the cape.
Some areas of the path allow direct access to the base of the cliffs. It’s advisable to stay behind the fences, however, as unpredictable waves can cause the rocks to be slippery and dangerous.
