Cilaos is a sun-drenched mountain town perched more than 1,200 metres above sea level. The town is set in the heart of the Cirque de Cilaos, a volcanic caldera surrounded by emerald-green volcanic peaks and rolling vineyards. Hike in a UNESCO World Heritage Site and discover the vibrancy of Creole history, culture and cuisine.
Things to do in Cilaos
Piton des Neiges towers over Cilaos and is one of the tallest peaks on Réunion. It’s more than 3,000 metres high and the crown jewel of La Réunion National Park. The volcanic peak is also part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tackle the challenging summit hike or explore family-friendly trails at the foot of the mountain.
Learn about the art of traditional embroidery at Maison de la Broderie. The museum celebrates the centuries-old art of embroidery on Réunion. Exhibits explore how the art combines traditional French techniques with Creole influences.
Cilaos is a gateway to the spectacular Cirque de Cilaos. The caldera is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and boasts world-class hiking, mountain biking, canyoning and rock climbing. Strap into a harness and scale towering cliffs, swim at the foot of tumbling waterfalls and hike iconic trails like the GR R1.
Colourful flowers and brightly painted houses give Cilaos all the charm of a traditional Creole town. Dine at local restaurants and try classic Creole dishes like “cari de poulet” chicken curry cooked in a spicy turmeric sauce and “rougail saucisse” tomato-based stew made with spicy sausages. Wash down your meal with a glass of high-altitude wine, which has been produced in the mountains of Cilaos for centuries.
Getting around Cilaos
Cilaos is compact and easy to get around on foot. The town is a 1.5-hour drive from Saint-Paul and two hours from Saint-Denis. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit Cilaos and explore Réunion at your own pace. Roland Garros Airport is a two-hour drive away.