The Cilaos cirque: An idyllic mountain paradise on Réunion

If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat surrounded by majestic mountains, discover the Cirque of Cilaos on the island of Réunion. This charming village is not only a popular destination for hikers, but also a healing spa town with a rich cultural history. Here’s why Cilaos is worth a stay and what you should definitely see when you visit.

The Cilaos cirque is located about 40 kilometers from Saint-Louis and can be reached via the winding road “La Route des 400 virages” (the road with 400 bends). The drive along these serpentines is an experience in itself, with breathtaking views of the steep mountain slopes and the tropical landscape.

The valley, which extends over an area of about 10.5 to 11 kilometers, is surrounded by steep cliffs and rocks. This natural setting creates a unique atmosphere and makes Cilaos a true retreat for nature lovers and those seeking peace and quiet. During the holiday months, the village comes to life when visitors from the coastal regions flock here to enjoy the fresh mountain air and pleasant climate. Outside of the high season, a peaceful idyll returns and Cilaos shows its quiet side.

Cilaos is a true paradise for hiking enthusiasts. The surrounding area offers numerous hiking trails that lead through dense forests, over steep mountain slopes and past spectacular viewpoints. The most famous hiking trail leads to the Piton des Neiges, the highest peak on the island at 3,070 meters. Anyone who undertakes this challenging hike will be rewarded with an incomparable view of the surrounding valleys.

For less experienced hikers, there are many shorter but equally scenic routes that reveal the diversity of the landscape. From lush valleys to clear mountain streams, Cilaos offers the perfect setting for long walks and exploration.

In addition to its scenic attractions, Cilaos is also known for its healing thermal springs. As early as the 19th century, the town was used as a spa to treat people with various health problems. The thermal baths of Cilaos, now known as “Les Thermes de Cilaos”, offer rest and relaxation for body and mind. The water from the springs is rich in minerals and is particularly recommended for rheumatism, skin diseases and respiratory diseases.

The spa is open daily and tickets can be purchased on site or online through the thermal complex’s official website. There are various packages available, from individual baths to day passes that provide access to the spa facilities and treatments.

Another highlight of Cilaos is the local wine grown in the surrounding vineyards. Cilaos is the only place on Réunion where wine is produced. The vineyards are located on terraced slopes and benefit from the mild mountain climate. Cilaos wine, especially the red “Pinot Noir”, is popular with connoisseurs and visitors alike.

In addition to wine, Cilaos lentils are another speciality of the region. These lentils, grown in the fertile soils of the cirque, are known for their delicate taste and high quality. They are an essential part of Creole cuisine and are often used in traditional dishes.

Cilaos is also famous for its traditional weaving art, known as the “Jour de Cilaos”. This delicate handicraft, consisting of intricately designed lace and embroidery, has been an integral part of the local culture for generations. The Museum of Weaving Arts, “Maison de la Broderie”, is a must-see for art lovers and those interested. Here you can learn about the history of this art form and admire the hand-crafted works. The museum is usually open from Tuesday to Sunday, but more precise opening hours can be found on the official website.

If you want to fully enjoy the beauty of Cilaos, we recommend a stay of two to three nights. For hikers planning longer tours, it may be worth staying even longer. There are a variety of charming accommodations in Cilaos, from cozy guesthouses to comfortable hotels. Most rooms can be reserved online through booking platforms or directly with the hosts.

Cilaos Tourist Office: Information and Contact

To plan your stay perfectly, you can contact the local tourist office in Cilaos. Here you will receive detailed information about sights, hiking trails, events and much more

Opening hours:

• Monday to Saturday: 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Sunday and public holidays: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
• Closed on January 1st, May 1st and December 25th

Address and contact:
2, rue Mac-Auliffe 97413 Cilaos
Telephone: 02 62 31 71 71
Email: accueil.cilaos@gmail.com
https://www.sudreuniontourisme.fr/

Cilaos offers a unique combination of nature, culture and relaxation. Whether you want to hike, enjoy the thermal springs or discover local handicrafts, this picturesque place has something for everyone. To make the most of your stay, plan enough time to experience the beauty of the cirque at your leisure.