City of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains

The city of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains situated to the west of Réunion, is a small seaside resort on the coast belonging to the municipality of St.Paul. Its counterpart, Saint-Gilles-les-Hauts, is overhanging at an altitude of 315 meters.

Presentation of the city of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains

Saint-Gilles-les-Bains is known from the beginning of the colonization of the island around 1665. Its access being only by the ocean or by a path from Saint-Gilles-les-Hauts, the place remained for a long time a fishing and cotton-growing village.

In the nineteenth century, it was the sugar cane plantations that developed, but it was undoubtedly the creation of the road from Saint-Paul to Saint-Leu that favored the growth and animation of Saint-Gilles-les -Baths.

Today, the seaside resort is the main one in Réunion and a highly touristic place. It even inherited the nickname Zorey land in reference to the metropolitan people who come to stay there. Although tourism in Réunion does not rest on its beaches, a passage through Saint-Gilles les Bains remains essential.

What to do in town in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains?

Every Wednesday morning the fairground market of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains takes place. Go stock up on fresh fruits from Réunion, in spices or meats. You will also find souvenir gifts with the local handicraft stalls.

If you do not have the opportunity to observe the marine flora and fauna of the intense island with mask and snorkel, meet at theRéunion aquarium. A magical visit where you will discover the different species that inhabit the ocean, sharks, rays, seahorses or even clown fishes evolving in the middle of splendid corals.

Take advantage of your visit to Saint-Gilles to taste the typical dishes of Reunion Island which you will find several recipes on our blog. If you want quick, enjoy Creole snacks such as samosas, bouchons or even chili candy and for those who are in metropolitan France or elsewhere treat yourself with a little vanilla rum or one guava punch delivered to your home while waiting for your next vacation !!!

Take part in the carnival Grand Boucan in the month of June ! With or without disguise, enjoy the parade of floats, music and the fiery killing of the poor mascot King Dodo after dark. A theme is offered every year so you never run out of inspiration.

Consult our section event to discover all the major events in Réunion.

You will soon find many traditional items from Reunion Island on our Shop

To see in the town of Saint-Paul

• Maïdo
• Cormorant Basin
• Mafate
• Boucan-Canot
• Hermitage
• Tower of rocks

Top 3 accommodations in Saint-Gilles

• Hotel les Creoles
• Hotel Ermitage
• Hotel le Recif

Top 3 Restaurants in Saint-Gilles

• Restaurant Laetizia
• The lagoon veranda
• The Palm grove

To find out more about the city of Saint-Gilles, visit the website Saint-Paul town hall