Ville de Sainte-Rose

Saint-Rose

In the land of lava

The town of Sainte-Rose and the town of the same name is located in the south-east of Reunion Island between St. Benedict and Saint-Philippe. It hosts on its territory part of the active volcano on Piton de la Fournaise. The city is home to more than 6,500 inhabitants for an area of 177.6 km2.

Presentation of the city of Sainte-Rose

The colonists landed at Sainte-Rose in 1671 and gave it the name of Port Caron to later become Quai la Rose. It was not until the end of 1727 that the first lands in the town were allocated. On August 8, 1790, Sainte-Rose broke away from Saint-Benoît and became a town with its first mayor, Count Dulac, at its head.

Its fertile agricultural lands are first cultivated with coffee, then rice, maize, cassava and cloves. It was at the beginning of the 19th century that the sugar cane fields took place like many towns on Bourbon Island.

Sainte-Rose town center is located a few hundred meters from the coast. Moreover, the presence of Piton de la Fournaise means that its districts are also located along the coast near the N2:

Piton Sainte-Rose in the south, composed mainly of houses with a marina, hotels and restaurants;
Bois Blanc even further south leading to the lava route, a rural setting with residential houses.

map-commune-saint-rose

What to do in town in Sainte-Rose?

Go to Domaine de la Roseraye and enjoy a guided tour of the garden. You will discover the remains of the old sugar factory in a magnificent setting with lush vegetation. Take a trip to the Sainte-Rose Marine, a small fishing port where you might be lucky enough to spot dolphins.

At the end of August, beginning of September, the “days of fire” event is held. A cultural and artistic event with the theme of Piton de la Fournaise and volcanism in general. A great way to highlight the city and town of Sainte-Rose, the land of lava.

Treat your taste buds to a delicious Cabri Massalé and for dessert one potato cake.