Cilaos

Cilaos is a village nestled within a natural cirque of the same name on the island of Réunion, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognised for its peaks, cirques and escarpments. Reached via a winding road with numerous hairpin bends from Saint-Louis, this volcanic cirque sits at over 1,200 metres above sea level, offering a cooler climate than the coastal areas. The village is known for its thermal springs, in use since the 19th century, as well as for its locally grown Cilaos lentils, cultivated on the surrounding slopes, and for its traditional lace-making and embroidery. Cilaos serves as a popular base for hiking, with trails leading to sites such as Roche Merveilleuse, which offers panoramic views over the cirque, and towards Piton des Neiges, the island's highest peak. The village also has a range of shops, restaurants and accommodation catering to visitors exploring Réunion's cirques. Surrounded by steep escarpments and forest, the mountainous setting makes it a favoured destination for nature lovers and mid-mountain trekking enthusiasts.