Peak performance at .... Saint Louis Peak, Fort Dauphin

 
The peak of Saint Louis in Fort-Dauphin rises to an altitude of 529 metres and offers a panorama across the magnificent bays of Sainte-Luce or Lokaro. It also gives a view over the lush flora of this south-eastern part of Madagascar and in particular of the Berenty and Andohahela reserves.
 
The Saint Louis peak of Fort-Dauphin is also called "the land of thorns" and constitutes a piece in the puzzle of the reconstruction of Madagascar's colonial history. The Lokaro Islands, Evatra Point, Andriambe Lagoon, Anosy Mountains, Dauphine Cove, Libanona Beaches, Portuguese Islet are all visible from the top of the peak. Beyond an exceptional view, this site is a place of tranquility and fresh air, an ideal place to recharge your batteries.
 
You can reach there by foot (allow between 1 to 2 hours), via a rocky track in the midst of a green mountain with a beautiful wilderness. The abundant vegetation is mainly composed of ravenalas, raphias, orchids and periwinkle. The guides accompany the ascent with tales about the legends of the places. Peak Saint Louis is a somewhere that is not to be forgotten and to which one always likes to return.
 
This article was featured in Prime Magazine November 2018

Useful Information

When to go

Fort Dauphin has a moderate climate, slightly warm almost all year long, except between June and September, when it is a little colder. But these are the months when you are most likely to encounter humpback whales and dolphins roaming the Fake Bay of Galleons.

How to get there

The ascent of Peak Saint Louis can be done via two footpaths. The first one starts from the SIFOR plant, a sisal processing plant. It is the shortest route to the summit. It takes about 1 hour and a half to complete. The second trail starts from Marillac. It is advisable to wear trousers on this route to avoid scratching your legs.

Where to stay

At this flagship destination for holiday-makers, several luxury hotel complexes have been built, including Berenty Lodge, Camp Pirate and Kaleta Hotel. But it is always possible to camp at Fort Dauphin to enjoy an ambiance closer to the heart of nature.

Where to eat

Cocobeach, Le Zay and Le Bateau Restaurant offer local specialities including seafood. To be recommended.

What to see

Visit the Berenty Reserve, reputed for its carnivorous plants and thorny forest. Also, go to the Nahampaona Reserve to relax. You will find a beautiful waterfall with a natural swimming pool. Water sports, leisure, walks and hikes await you at Fort-Dauphin.