Plantation Fleur de K'fé
Nestled in the highlands of Le Tampon, Plantation Fleur de K'fé cultivates Bourbon Pointu, a historic coffee variety of Réunion. A guided tour from harvest to tasting, at the heart of volcanic lands.
Nestled in the highlands of Le Tampon, Plantation Fleur de K'fé is one of the few coffee operations still active on Réunion. On these high-altitude lands, Bourbon Pointu coffee — a historic variety of the island — is cultivated using artisanal methods. The visit allows you to follow the complete cycle of the bean, from harvest to roasting, and understand why this coffee ranks among the rarest in the world.
Quick facts at a glance
- Access: car recommended; roads in the Le Tampon highlands are poorly served by public transport
- Recommended duration: 1 to 1.5 hours for the complete guided tour
- What to wear: closed-toe shoes advised for walking through the plantation
What to expect
Coffee plants in terraces occupy the slopes of the property. Depending on the season, red berries or white flowers perfume the pathways. The processing facilities — pulping, drying, roasting — are visible and explained during the visit. A tasting generally concludes the tour.
History and context
Bourbon Pointu coffee (Coffea arabica var. laurina) was introduced to Réunion in the 18th century. Long abandoned in favor of sugar cane, it has experienced a revival since the 2000s, driven by passionate producers in the island's highlands. Le Tampon, at over 500 m elevation, offers ideal climatic conditions: cool nights, regular rainfall, and rich volcanic soils.
Highlights of the visit
Hand-picking
Bourbon Pointu demands selective harvesting, bean by bean. The guide explains how to identify cherries at optimal ripeness. During harvest season (typically May to August), some visits allow you to participate.
Artisanal roasting
The roasting workshop reveals the transformation stages from green bean to coffee ready for brewing. The floral aromas and low caffeine content of Bourbon Pointu are highlighted during the final tasting.
The tasting
Comparing Bourbon Pointu with other local varieties helps grasp its singularity: fine acidity, floral notes, lingering finish. Products from the plantation are usually available for purchase on site.
Photography tips
Morning light is ideal for photographing rows of coffee plants with the mist of the highlands in the background. Red berries against green foliage offer sharp contrasts. Ask permission before photographing interior work areas.
Location and access
The plantation is located in the highlands of Le Tampon, a municipality in the south of Réunion accessible from Saint-Pierre or Saint-Louis. A car remains the most convenient option. The area is close to the Plaine des Cafres and Piton de la Fournaise, making it possible to combine the visit with a volcanic excursion.
Nearby attractions
- Plaine des Cafres — high-altitude plateau with open landscapes, departure point to the volcano.
- Piton de la Fournaise — iconic active volcano of the island, accessible from Pas de Bellecombe.
- Cité du Volcan — museum dedicated to the volcanic geology of Réunion, located at Plaine des Cafres.
- Forêt de Bélouve — tamarind forest in the highlands, accessible from Le Tampon.
Frequently asked questions
Bourbon Pointu harvest typically runs from May to August. This is the most vibrant period to observe the picking. Outside this season, the visit remains interesting for roasting and tasting.
Guided tours are generally by reservation, especially for groups. It is advisable to contact the plantation directly before making the trip.
Products from the plantation — roasted coffee, sometimes in beans or ground — are usually offered for sale following the visit.
The outdoor tour and concrete explanations about coffee cultivation are appropriate for children of a certain age. Bring closed-toe shoes for walking the plantation paths.
Yes. Le Tampon is a convenient base for reaching Plaine des Cafres and Pas de Bellecombe. A morning visit to the plantation can precede a climb to the volcano in the afternoon.
Interested in this visit?
We can include it in your personalised itinerary.
