(Posted 27th February 2025)
Courtesy of Laura Samoisy and Hello Rodrigues
The island of Rodrigues is dominated by Mont Limon, which rises to 398 meters. Situated between Mont Lubin and Grande Montagne, the summit of this green gem offers a magnificent window that opens onto part of the island. The ascent is easy and accessible in just 5 minutes. Lace up your sneakers!
Hyperlink: https://hellorodrigues.fr/ile-rodrigues/echappees-belles/mont-limon-sur-le-toit-de-rodrigues
An Easy Access
On the Palissade road, which runs from Grande Montagne to Mont Lubin, a path is marked by a wooden sign, indicating the start of the ascent to Mont Limon. This short walk is open to the public and features a stone staircase, followed by earthen steps supported by large wooden beams that lead you to the summit.
The lush nature envelops you. You delight in entering a vegetal world, accompanied by the song of birds and the coolness of this high-altitude region. The giant Tekoma trees surrounding you are magnificent.
At the top, you are greeted by the sky and a wooden platform that was recently built to enjoy the beauty of the island stretching out below you. A wind rose engraved in the wood indicates the four cardinal points to help you orient yourself. Verdant hills, villages nestled in nature, the ocean as a backdrop…
This fusion of land and sea, green and blue, is fascinating. Another rocky viewpoint allows you to admire the Palissade road winding below. Mont Limon is a must-see on the many trails organized in Rodrigues.
Often, athletes continue the circuit on the southern slope, which plunges into dense vegetation for about a kilometer. Rocky and steep in places, the path eventually leads to the village of Lataniers. Good sports shoes and protective clothing are recommended to avoid being scratched by the vegetation.
A Rich Flora and Fauna
Why was it named Mont Limon, even though no lemon trees grow there? However, some endemic plants contribute to the richness of the local ecosystem: Bois Bégasse, Bois Balai, and Palmiste Bon, which are unfortunately endangered. In 2020, during the pandemic, volunteers from Bois et Forêts planted a few specimens.
You can observe the famous Pandanus, the endemic Rodrigues vacoa recognizable by its aerial roots, aloe, latanier, and invasive fruit trees like Jean Bourgeois, Chinese Guava, and Pomme Zacot. This green sanctuary also shelters the fauvette and the yellow cardinal, endemic birds that nest in this unique haven of peace.
You might encounter bees collecting nectar from flowers in the spring or lizards and chameleons taking a break in a quiet corner. At sunset, it’s magical! The golden light at the end of the day gives these wild hills an extraordinary color.
In the distance, a few cows graze peacefully in a pastoral setting. From Mont Limon, walking trails lead you to other adventures. Take a local guide if you wish to discover surprising landscapes; you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the variety this small island has to offer!
Hello Rodrigues Magazine is a digital mag promoting the small and remote island of Rodrigues in the Indian Ocean. Launched in January 2024 by the initiative of Laura Samoisy, director of publication and editor in chief, the magazine aims to promote this sunny destination and its culture. Connect on hellorodrigues.fr to know more about this little island.
