Bassin Bleu (Saint-Paul)

Bassin Bleu is a natural pool fed by the Ravine Saint-Paul, in Saint-Paul on the north-west coast of Réunion, a French island in the Indian Ocean. It is reached by a hiking trail that starts behind the town cemetery and follows the ravine inland. The approach involves scrambling over rock and, depending on recent rain, wading or crossing sections of the streambed, ending at a pool enclosed by rock walls. It is a locals' swimming spot more than a developed attraction, with no facilities along the way. Visitors drive to the Saint-Paul cemetery on the RN1, park for free and walk about 45 minutes up the ravine. The final approach to the pool itself, walled in by the ravine's rock, is the highlight, and the cool, clear water makes a refreshing reward on a hot day. A round trip takes two to three hours, depending on how long visitors swim and rest. Mornings in the dry season are best for swimming, when water levels are lower and crossings easier. The pool is also quieter on weekday mornings, while weekends bring local families and groups of young people. Recent rainfall matters: the ravine crossing can become dangerous or impassable after heavy rain upstream, because flash floods can rise quickly, and visitors should avoid the trail after heavy rain or when storm clouds gather inland. There is no public bus to the trailhead, so a car is needed. Visitors should wear shoes with good grip, carry water, a towel and a dry bag for belongings, and avoid leaving valuables in parked cars. Jumping into the pool is discouraged because depth and submerged rocks vary. The route offers little shade in places, so a hat and sun protection are useful, and walkers should pack out all rubbish since there are no bins on the trail.