Bassin La Mer - Image 1
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Bassin La Mer

4.6
·86 reviews·, Réunion

Discover Bassin la Mer, a stunning waterfall and natural pool on Réunion Island, accessible via a scenic hike. Perfect for swimming and photography.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Bassin La Mer - Image 1

Bassin La Mer

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Bassin la Mer, a stunning waterfall and natural pool on Réunion Island, accessible via a scenic hike. Perfect for swimming and photography.

4.6
(86 reviews)

"A very beautiful spot with stunning views and a refreshing swim – totally worth the hike!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Proper Shoes

Slippery trails! Sturdy, non-slip shoes are essential. Walking sticks are a great idea.

🏊‍♀️ Swim Safely

You can swim in the basin, but be cautious of slippery rocks.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bassin la Mer Waterfall

Bassin la Mer Waterfall

Saint-Benoît

A stunning cascade plunging into a natural pool, perfect for a refreshing swim.

Reddit
Scenic Hike

Scenic Hike

Trail from parking area

An enjoyable trek through lush nature, leading to breathtaking views and the main attraction.

Reddit
Overlooking Viewpoint

Overlooking Viewpoint

End of the main path

A must-see spot offering panoramic vistas of the waterfall and its surroundings.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Footwear is Key!

The trails to Bassin la Mer can get very slippery, especially after rain. Sturdy, non-slip shoes or hiking boots are a must. Many visitors recommend bringing walking sticks for extra stability on the muddy and sometimes steep sections. Reddit

Timing Your Visit

While Bassin la Mer is beautiful year-round, consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds. The hike is generally accessible for families, but be mindful of the slippery conditions, especially with younger children. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
After dry spells
Why
Less slippery trails
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Direction Bassin la Mer 😍 📍@villedesaintbenoit974 @ile.delareunion974 #iledelareunion974📸🇷🇪 #bassin #bassinlamer #974 #ileintense #nosbellescascades @nos_belles_cascades #reuniontourisme #tourisme #tourismefrance #francetourisme #randonnée #jepeuxpasjairando #explorelareunion #exploretheworld #exploration #france4dreams #cascade @visitelareunion @reuniontourisme #reunion_hub
ile.delareunion974
334 likes • 9K views

👟 Wear Proper Shoes

Slippery trails! Sturdy, non-slip shoes are essential. Walking sticks are a great idea. Reddit

🏊‍♀️ Swim Safely

You can swim in the basin, but be cautious of slippery rocks. Reddit

📍 Bassin la mer 🇷🇪 . . . ________________________ #bassin #bassinlamer #reunion974 #iledelareunion #braspanon #estreunion #naturalpool #waterfall #cascade #reunion974 #reunionisland #974 #974_lareunion #explore #reuniontourisme #ileintense #nature #974island #lookmonrando #hiking #randonnée #igers #igerslareunion #gotoreunion #transition #unholy
briceboyer974
2.5K likes • 28.9K views
Bassin la mer et bassin la paix🇷🇪 #reunionisland #974island #ileintense #bassin #bassincache #randonnée #cascade #waterfall
le_mec_au_chapeau974
841 likes • 17.5K views

🚶‍♀️ Hike to the View

Don't miss the final path to the viewpoint for the best waterfall perspective. Reddit

🚗 Parking Available

Parking is usually found near the snack bar on the main road. Reddit

Bassin la mer 🌊 #saintbenoit #iledelareunion#islandlife#friends#bassin#aventure#tropical
maedoxi
95 likes • 5.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Proper Shoes

Slippery trails! Sturdy, non-slip shoes are essential. Walking sticks are a great idea. Reddit

🏊‍♀️ Swim Safely

You can swim in the basin, but be cautious of slippery rocks. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hike to the View

Don't miss the final path to the viewpoint for the best waterfall perspective. Reddit

🚗 Parking Available

Parking is usually found near the snack bar on the main road. Reddit

💧 Check Weather

Trails are much slipperier after heavy rain. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(86 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Bassin la Mer is a highly praised natural attraction on Réunion Island, celebrated for its beautiful waterfall and refreshing swimming basin. Visitors enjoy the scenic hike to reach the spot, though many caution about the slippery trails, especially after rain. The viewpoint offers spectacular panoramic views, making the trek well worth the effort. Reddit+2

"Beautiful spot. You can go left to see the source of the smaller waterfall. It is very slippery there so be careful. Ot os a nice little trek from Bassin la Paix"

Denise Jackinson

"A lovely little hike starting from the designated parking area in Saint-André. We did it the day after heavy rain, and we regretted not bringing our walking sticks: the sections were slippery and muddy. The Bassin de la Mer (Sea Basin) is prettier than the Bassin de la Paix (Peace Basin). You absolutely must finish the hike to get a view overlooking the waterfall."

isa

"A very beautiful spot. It took us 45 minutes. The path is easy, with only a few steps at the end. But it's totally worth it. Both the views during the hike and the waterfall are stunning, and you can swim there."

lisa mi

What People Like

Beautiful waterfall
Refreshing swimming basin
Scenic hike

What People Dislike

Slippery trails
Steep steps

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bassin la Mer is located in Saint-Benoît on the island of Réunion. Access typically involves a scenic hike starting from a designated parking area. Many visitors mention it's a lovely little trek from Bassin la Paix, though Bassin la Paix itself may be closed. Reddit+1

Yes, parking is generally available near a snack bar on the main road in Abondance, which serves as a common starting point for the hike. Reddit

The most common approach is a hike from the parking area. The path is described as easy with some steps at the end, though it can be slippery. Reddit

Using GPS to navigate to the general area of Saint-Benoît or the specific parking location is recommended. Look for signs directing you to Bassin la Mer or Bassin la Paix. TikTok

Information on direct public transport to the trailhead is limited. It's advisable to check local bus routes for Saint-Benoît and then consider a short taxi ride or walk to the starting point. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no admission fees mentioned for Bassin la Mer, making it a free natural attraction. Reddit

As a natural site, Bassin la Mer doesn't have official opening hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment of the scenery. TikTok

While the natural site is always accessible, specific access points or trails might be temporarily closed due to weather conditions or maintenance. It's always good to check local conditions if possible. Reddit

The main restriction is to be mindful of the slippery conditions and to respect the natural environment. Swimming is permitted but requires caution. Reddit

While not strictly necessary, hiring a local guide can enhance your experience, especially if you're interested in the flora, fauna, or local history. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy a beautiful hike, admire the stunning waterfall, take photos, and even swim in the natural pool. The viewpoint offers spectacular panoramic views. InstagramReddit

Yes, swimming is possible in the basin, but visitors are advised to be very careful due to slippery rocks and potentially strong currents. Reddit

The hike is generally described as taking about 45 minutes to an hour round trip, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the waterfall. Reddit

Yes, it's considered accessible for children, but parents should be extra cautious due to the slippery and sometimes steep sections, especially the final steps. Reddit

Bring sturdy, non-slip shoes, water, snacks, swimwear if you plan to swim, and a camera to capture the beauty. Walking sticks are highly recommended. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The viewpoint overlooking the waterfall is a prime spot. The area around the basin itself, with the cascading water and lush greenery, also offers fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Drone footage of Bassin la Mer is popular, showcasing its beauty from above. Always check local drone regulations before flying. Instagram+1

Morning light can be beautiful, but be aware of potential shadows. Midday can offer bright light, while late afternoon might provide softer, warmer tones. Instagram

Use a slower shutter speed on your camera to create a silky, blurred effect for the water. A tripod will help keep your shots steady. Instagram

Consider capturing the contrast between the vibrant green foliage and the clear blue water, or the textures of the wet rocks. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bassin la Mer is a great option for families looking for an adventure. The hike is generally considered accessible for children, offering a chance to explore nature. Reddit However, parents should be extra vigilant due to the slippery and sometimes steep trails, especially the final steps leading to the waterfall. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear with good grip, and consider bringing walking sticks for added safety. The opportunity to swim in the basin can be a highlight for kids, but always supervise them closely near the water. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers

For those who love a good trek and stunning natural scenery, Bassin la Mer is a rewarding destination. The hike, though short, offers a beautiful immersion into Réunion's lush landscapes. Instagram+1 The main draw is, of course, the impressive waterfall and the opportunity to swim in its clear waters. Experienced hikers might enjoy exploring the area around the smaller waterfall's source, but caution is advised due to extreme slipperiness. Reddit The viewpoint offers a fantastic reward for the effort, showcasing the raw beauty of the island. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Bassin la Mer is a photographer's delight, offering a variety of stunning shots. The cascading waterfall, the vibrant green surroundings, and the clear blue basin provide ample opportunities for capturing breathtaking images. Instagram+1 Drone photography is particularly popular here, offering unique aerial perspectives of the natural wonder. Instagram+1 Consider visiting during different times of the day to experiment with light and capture the mood of the landscape. Remember to protect your gear from any spray from the waterfall. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Hike to Bassin la Mer

The journey to Bassin la Mer is an integral part of the experience. Visitors describe it as a 'lovely little hike' that's generally accessible, even with children. Reddit The path winds through lush vegetation, offering glimpses of the island's natural beauty. However, a crucial piece of advice repeated across reviews is the slippery nature of the trails, especially after rainfall. Many recommend wearing sturdy, non-slip shoes and even bringing walking sticks for added stability. Reddit

While the main path is relatively easy, the final descent to the water's edge involves steps that can be steep and treacherous. Reddit Despite these challenges, the effort is widely considered 'totally worth it' for the stunning reward at the end. The hike itself provides a sense of adventure and immersion in the tropical environment. Instagram

Experiencing the Waterfall and Basin

Upon reaching Bassin la Mer, you're greeted by a picturesque waterfall cascading into a natural pool. This 'beautiful spot' is a highlight for many, offering a refreshing opportunity for a swim. Reddit However, swimmers are strongly advised to exercise caution due to the slippery rocks surrounding the basin. The water is described as clear and inviting, making it a popular spot for cooling off on a warm day. Instagram

Beyond swimming, the visual spectacle of the waterfall is a major draw. Visitors often make the effort to reach a specific viewpoint that offers 'stunning' panoramic views of the cascade and its surroundings. InstagramReddit This elevated perspective is considered a must-do for capturing the full grandeur of Bassin la Mer. The natural beauty and the sound of the falling water create a serene and memorable experience for all who visit. Instagram

Comparing Bassin la Mer and Bassin la Paix

Bassin la Mer is often mentioned in conjunction with Bassin la Paix, another nearby waterfall. While both are located in the eastern part of Réunion Island, near Bras-Panon, there's a notable difference in their accessibility and appeal. Instagram+1 Several recent accounts indicate that Bassin la Paix may be closed or less accessible, with Bassin la Mer being the primary destination for visitors. Reddit

When both are accessible, Bassin la Mer is frequently described as the 'prettier' of the two. Reddit This suggests that while Bassin la Paix offers its own charm, Bassin la Mer often captivates visitors with its visual appeal and the overall experience it provides, from the hike to the waterfall itself. Travelers seeking a complete natural immersion often prioritize Bassin la Mer for its accessible beauty and recreational opportunities. Instagram

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