Plantation Le Labyrinthe – Maison du Laurina
In the highlands of Saint-Joseph, the Maison du Laurina showcases the culture of Bourbon Pointu coffee, an endemic variety of Réunion, through a guided tour and on-site tasting.
In the heart of Saint-Joseph's highlands, in the wild south of Réunion, the Maison du Laurina is a plantation dedicated to Bourbon Pointu coffee — the Laurina — an endemic variety of the island, renowned for its low caffeine content and delicate aromas. The visit blends agricultural discovery, the history of coffee in Réunion, and immersion in a verdant mountain landscape.
Practical information at a glance
- Access: car recommended, highland roads of Saint-Joseph (south of the island)
- Suggested duration: 1.5 to 2 hours for the complete guided tour
- Admission: paid entry (rate to be confirmed on-site or by phone)
- Attire: closed-toe shoes recommended for plantation trails
What to see
The plantation spreads across the slopes of Saint-Joseph's highlands, where Laurina coffee plants grow in the shade of fruit trees. You'll observe the different stages of cultivation: white flowering, red cherries at maturity, drying and pulping. A tasting room allows you to sample coffee produced on-site, one of the rarest and most expensive in the world.
History and context
Bourbon Pointu was introduced to Réunion — then Île Bourbon — in the 18th century. Its cultivation declined with the rise of sugar cane, then was revived in the late 20th century thanks to local enthusiasts and the interest of Japanese roasters. The Maison du Laurina is part of this effort to preserve a unique agricultural heritage.
Highlights of the visit
The guided plantation tour
A guide explains the complete coffee cycle: from planting to cup. You walk past rows of coffee plants, learn to distinguish the ripeness stages of cherries, and understand why Laurina requires particular care compared to commercial varieties.
The tasting
At the end of the visit, tasting the Bourbon Pointu reveals a low-bitterness coffee with floral and fruity notes. This is often the most memorable moment for both coffee enthusiasts and newcomers.
The panorama over the southern highlands
The plantation offers open views over the steep valleys of the island's south. On clear days, your gaze extends to the surrounding ramparts and peaks.
Photography tips
Morning light is ideal for photographing the coffee plants: it brings out the dense green of the foliage and red cherries. The rows of plants offer interesting sight lines. Avoid midday, often misty in the highlands.
Location and access
The Maison du Laurina is located in the highlands of Saint-Joseph, a municipality in the south of Réunion. Access by car from Saint-Joseph-centre takes about twenty minutes via winding roads. No regular public transport directly serves the site: a rental car is essential. The site is not suitable for people with reduced mobility due to sloped trails.
In the surrounding area
- Saint-Joseph — lively town of the wild south, local market and waterfront.
- Manapany-les-Bains — natural pool in lava rock, ideal after the visit.
- Grand Galet Waterfall (Langevin) — one of the island's most beautiful waterfalls, a few kilometres away.
- Cap Méchant — wild black lava coast, views over the Indian Ocean.
Frequently asked questions
It is advisable to contact the plantation before you visit, especially outside the high tourist season, to ensure that a guided tour is available at your preferred time.
Bourbon Pointu flowering generally occurs in early austral season (around July-August), but it depends on weather conditions. Check directly with the plantation.
Yes, the plantation generally sells Bourbon Pointu coffee produced on-site, packaged in small quantities. It is one of the rarest coffees on the island.
The guided tour is suitable for children from a certain age, but the sloped trails require supervision. Plan closed-toe shoes for the whole family.
The Maison du Laurina pairs well with the Grand Galet waterfall in Langevin and a swim at Manapany-les-Bains, for a full day in the wild south of Réunion.
Interested in this visit?
We can include it in your personalised itinerary.