Iron hole

Easy hike from the Gîte de Bélouve to the Trou de Fer – An unforgettable walk in the Bélouve forest

Departing from Plaine des Palmistes, just a few minutes from our guesthouse, discover one of the natural gems of Reunion Island: the hike to Trou de Fer, in the heart of the Bélouve primary forest.

🕒 Duration: approximately 2 hours 45 minutes (round trip)
📏 Distance: 9.3 km
📍 Elevation gain: +230 m (altitudes between 1340 m and 1540 m)
🚶‍♂️ Level: easy – ideal for families

How to get there:

  • From Plaine des Palmistes, head towards Petite Plaine.
  • Then follow the Col de Bébour road to the end, where you will find the Gîte de Bélouve car park.
  • From the parking lot, reach the refuge and begin a magical walk.

An accessible and immersive hike

The route is laid out with long wooden walkways (tamaret), making walking pleasant, even in wet weather—a characteristic characteristic of the Bélouve rainforest. This feature allows you to enjoy the scenery without difficulty, even when the trails are muddy.

The highlight of the show: the Trou de Fer

At the end of the trail, a magnificent panorama awaits you: the famous Trou de Fer, a dizzying 725-meter waterfall, the highest in France and one of the most impressive in the world. On a clear day, the view is breathtaking. That's why we recommend planning this outing in good weather to fully enjoy the spectacle.


Stay in our guesthouse at Plaine des Palmistes and benefit from personalized advice to discover the most beautiful hikes in Reunion Island, including the Trou de Fer, a must-see natural site for nature lovers.