La Saga du Rhum
Réunion
La Saga du Rhum is a unique museum situated on the island of Réunion, dedicated to showcasing the rich history and craft of rum production on the island. Established in 2008 on the grounds of the Isautier distillery-the oldest and still active distillery on Réunion-it offers visitors an immersive cultural and educational experience. The museum is housed in rehabilitated industrial buildings surrounded by sugarcane fields, preserving the authentic atmosphere of the site. It presents the traditions and memories of Reunionese rum through permanent exhibitions, temporary shows, and a tasting space. The project was developed with strong support from local and European authorities, emphasizing its role as a cultural landmark. La Saga du Rhum also includes a commercial boutique known as Le Dépôt de Rhums, offering a curated selection of local rums. Guided tours, including tastings, are available by reservation, making it an engaging destination for both tourists and rum enthusiasts.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to book guided tours in advance as they include a tasting session and last approximately 1.5 hours. The museum is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, with ticket sales closing at 5 PM. Visiting in the morning or early afternoon is recommended to enjoy a relaxed experience. Discounts may be available for groups or certain categories of visitors. The museum's location within an active distillery allows guests to appreciate the authentic rum-making environment.
Interesting facts
- •La Saga du Rhum is located on the grounds of the oldest distillery on Réunion, Isautier, which remains operational.
- •The museum was a collaborative project involving the three active distilleries of Réunion: Isautier, Savanna, and Rivière du Mât.
- •The museum surpassed 36,000 visitors annually by the end of 2012, earning the status of a 'remarkable tourist site' on Réunion.
- •In 2018, the museum celebrated its 10th anniversary with a special exhibition and publication titled 'Secrets de Rhum'.
- •The museum's construction was supported by multiple public bodies including the European Union, the Regional Council of Réunion, CIVIS, and the municipality of Saint-Pierre.
History
The idea for La Saga du Rhum originated in 2001, with feasibility studies conducted by 2003.
In 2004, the island's three active distilleries agreed to establish a single reference museum dedicated to Reunionese rum, to be located at the Isautier distillery site.
Construction permits were filed in 2005, and after some delays due to a chikungunya epidemic, the museum was built from 2007 to 2008.
It officially opened in December 2008.
Since then, it has grown in popularity, surpassing 36,000 annual visitors by 2012 and welcoming its 100,000th visitor in 2013.
A major renovation in 2025 expanded the permanent exhibition, tasting area, and added a temporary exhibition hall and relocated the boutique to the front of the museum.
Place Guide
Permanent Exhibition
This exhibition details the history, culture, and production methods of rum on Réunion, highlighting traditional techniques and the island's unique terroir.
Tasting Area
A dedicated space where visitors can sample a variety of rums produced on the island, enhancing the educational experience with sensory engagement.
Temporary Exhibition Hall2025
A space for rotating exhibits related to rum, local culture, and history, providing fresh content and reasons for repeat visits.
Le Dépôt de Rhums Boutique
The museum's commercial outlet offering a curated selection of local rums and related products, supporting local producers and allowing visitors to purchase souvenirs.
Contact
Phone: 0262 35 81 90