The Petrified Savanna at Sainte Anne
07/16/2024It’s at Salines, in Sainte-Anne, that we begin a rather easy hike towards the Petrified Savanna. The place derives its name from the fact that petrified wood could be found here in the past.
Discovery of the Petrified Savanna Trail
We start at the end of Grande Terre at Salines, where the road ends to give way to the hiking trail, part of the Trace des Caps. The wide and shaded trail leads us to a small wooden bridge that crosses a stream. At low tide, you might be able to pass by the side; otherwise, you’ll have to walk on the rocks.
The terrain is fairly flat and straightforward. The most challenging aspect will likely be the heat. Despite the breeze, the sun is strong, so it’s important to protect yourself with sunscreen and a hat.
We follow the coastline throughout the hike and encounter very diverse landscapes. From mangroves, we transition to a desert-like environment with cacti and shrubs shaped by the wind, all along a rocky coast. The coastline bears witness to the region’s volcanic history. One can’t help but gaze out to sea. At 350 meters from the beach, the wind and waves sweep over the ‘Devil’s Table,’ a piece of land where a few daring birds land and take flight. We continue our journey with the Diamond Rock and Morne Larcher seemingly close behind us.
Finally, we arrive at Pointe d’Enfer. The name makes sense when you see the erosion the coastline has undergone. Large stones detached from the cliffs lie piled at their bases, where the waves crash against them. Sea birds, brown noddies, and terns can also be observed overhead and on the rocks. We also have a view of Anse Trabaud, a long beach with golden sand and waters ranging from turquoise to navy blue.
The journey isn’t over: we still have to see a magnificent landscape marked with orange ash grooves carved by the elements. With the savanna in the background, the scene appears otherworldly.
You can then continue towards Anse Trabaud or return to Salines for a well-deserved swim in the sea.
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Tips for Hiking the Petrified Savanna Note that the trail offers no shade.
Absolutely bring 2 liters of water, sun protection, hiking shoes, a camera, and swimwear!
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