Lion Mountain
A dramatic ridge walk with the shape of a sleeping lion — views over Grand Port
Duration
4–5 hours return
Distance
6 km
Elevation
480 m
Region
South East
Overview
Lion Mountain (Montagne du Lion) sits above Grand Port Bay in the south-east — the site of the only naval battle Napoleon ever won, in 1810. The mountain's profile from the coast is unmistakably lion-shaped. The trail involves some technical scrambling near the summit on steep, exposed basalt. The views from the top look south over the coral reef, east to Ile aux Aigrettes, and north across the central plateau. A guide is strongly recommended for first-time hikers.
Difficulty: Hard
Requires good fitness and some scrambling. Boots recommended. Allow a full half-day.
Trail Route
Access via Camp Diable village. Park near the sugar cane fields at the trail start.
The first section is through sugar cane and scrub — follow the obvious worn path.
Forest section begins after 1km — shaded and pleasant. Watch for tortoises and birds.
The ridge becomes visible above the forest. Trail steepens significantly.
Final 300m involves exposed scrambling on the lion's back ridgeline — hands and feet required.
Summit plateau with views in all directions. Return same route — care on descent.
Highlights
Best Time to Hike
May to October
What to Bring
- 2L water
- Sun cream (exposed summit)
- Good grip trail shoes or boots
- Gloves optional for scrambling
- Small first aid kit
Important Warnings
- ⚠Avoid in wet conditions — rock becomes dangerously slippery
- ⚠Exposed to full sun on the ridge — dehydration risk
- ⚠No shade on upper half of trail
- ⚠Early start essential in summer
