Domaine des Caféiers
In the highlands of Saint-Paul, the Domaine des Caféiers showcases the cultivation of Bourbon Pointu, an endemic variety of Réunion among the rarest in the world, from plant to cup.
The Domaine des Caféiers is an agricultural and tourist estate located in the highlands of Saint-Paul, on the island of Réunion. On the slopes of the island, at an altitude ideal for growing Bourbon Pointu coffee, this domain allows visitors to understand the Réunion coffee industry from plant to cup, set in the lush landscape typical of the western highlands.
What to see
The estate presents the different stages of coffee cultivation and processing. The terraced coffee plants, explanations of manual harvesting of red cherries, and the pulping process illustrate the artisanal production concretely. Bourbon Pointu coffee, an endemic variety of Réunion renowned for its low caffeine content and delicate aromas, is at the heart of the visit.
History and context
Coffee was introduced to Réunion in the 18th century. The Bourbon Pointu variety, or Laurina, nearly disappeared before being revived in the 2000s through preservation efforts and the interest of Japanese roasters. Today, a handful of estates in the island's highlands continue this exceptional cultivation, classified among the world's rarest specialty coffees.
Highlights of the visit
Discovering Bourbon Pointu
The Laurina variety is distinguished by its narrow leaves and pointed cherries. Understanding why this coffee is so rare — low yields, entirely manual harvesting — adds another dimension to the tasting that follows.
The tasting
The visit typically concludes with a tasting of coffee produced on site. This is an opportunity to perceive the floral and fruity notes characteristic of Bourbon Pointu, very different from ordinary commercial coffee.
Photography tips
Morning light is ideal for photographing rows of terraced coffee plants with the western highlands as backdrop. Red cherries on the branches offer beautiful colors during harvest season, typically between June and September.
Location and access
The estate is located in the highlands of Saint-Paul, accessible by car from the town center. The roads in the western highlands are winding; plan for a suitable vehicle. Saint-Paul is the largest municipality in Réunion, and its highlands are home to several agricultural operations and natural sites.
Nearby places accessible from Saint-Paul:
- Ravine des Colimaçons — neighboring agricultural area in the western highlands.
- Saint-Paul Market — one of the island's largest open-air markets, by the sea.
- Étang de Saint-Paul — protected wetland, a few kilometers from the town center.
Around the area
- Saint-Paul Market — colorful market on Friday and Saturday mornings, ideal for buying spices, local fruits, and Creole crafts.
- Étang de Saint-Paul — protected natural lagoon, habitat for aquatic birds, accessible on foot.
- Boucan Canot Beach — white sand beach on the western coast, about twenty minutes by car.
Frequently asked questions
The coffee cherry harvest period, typically between June and September, is the most interesting time to observe the pickers at work and see the coffee plants laden with red fruit.
It is advisable to contact the estate beforehand to confirm visiting hours and guide availability, as this type of artisanal operation does not always welcome walk-in visitors.
Réunion coffee estates generally offer their products for direct sale. Bourbon Pointu is a rare specialty coffee, sold at a significantly higher price than standard coffee.
Exploring the coffee plants outdoors is suitable for families. The terraced terrain can be uneven; closed-toe shoes are recommended for both children and adults.
Half a day is enough for the estate. You can then head down to the waterfront for Saint-Paul Market (Friday and Saturday mornings) or make your way to Boucan Canot Beach at the end of the day.
Interested in this visit?
We can include it in your personalised itinerary.
