Things to see and do Cilaos

An embroidery shop where you can see an embroiderer at work. She works there all day long, on a tablecloth stretched on a "drum". Luciane Técher will make you discover all the current embroidery techniques. Inspired by Tenerife lace, she asserts her method by getting rid of excess frills. This long work is today threatened by Malagasy imports at low prices. Souvenirs to bring back: framed embroideries or coasters.

So named because of its location at the foot of the Piton des Neiges, the church is built in the Art Deco style of the 1930s. Its half-moon façade makes it original. The nave and choir were made by cabinetmakers from the Rivière-Saint-Louis region. Before entering, on the left, the tomb of Father Boiteau, a builder much appreciated by the villagers. When his death was announced, the faithful built the tomb in a single night. For some, it has miraculous virtues. Since the year 2000, the church has been listed in the inventory of historical monuments.

When there aren't many people, time seems to be suspended at the Joncs pond. When the sun is a little higher, it makes the water surface glisten. Carp, eels, tilapia: the fish frolic. The central jets of water and the surrounding mountains almost give the impression of being in Switzerland. Swimming is not allowed here, but you can sail on pedal or electric boats or go for a walk around. Restaurants and snack bars surround the pond and offer an ideal view of the small pond for a relaxing moment.

Ideal for information on hikes, weather and reservations. From one day to the next, trails may be closed and the weather may change. The office offers guided tours lasting an hour or two: "On the road to thermalism", "The must-sees of Cilaos", "Oenological discovery", "Discovering the Cilaos lentil", etc. Information on days, rates and opening times available on site or by telephone. Also a craft store.

This talented artist, of international renown, opens the doors of his studio for an interesting visit. To pass the door is to enter a monochrome universe strewn with mysterious forests, bewitching women's bodies and sailboats inviting to travel. With the technique of etching on copper, which he introduced to Reunion Island, this self-taught artist reveals an inspiring world. Passionate about history and nature, Philippe Turpin has created artist's books, printed in limited editions, such as Les Voiles des Mascareignes.

.' s water is naturally sparkling and highly appreciated by gourmets. It has been bottled since 1999.

At the entrance to the circus, Mrs. Grondin explains the embroidery technique that has been passed down from mother to daughter for generations. She weaves placemats to be framed or coasters, with multiple shapes, including the emblematic "straw in tail". In 2008, she was awarded first prize in the "hope" category of the regional Grand Prix des Métiers. The selling price of the books is indicative of the time it takes to make them. She also sells wine and lentils.

A must-see site in the cirque de Cilaos, a classic and therefore very popular! Walk to the Bras Rouge waterfall. You can start on the sentier des Porteurs, from the rue des Thermes parking lot below the church. You'll reach the îlet à Cordes road, and about 200 m to the left, the path descends to the waterfall. There are no difficult sections, making it ideal for families. Pleasant walk under the trees, beautiful scenery. Option to continue on the GR1/GR2, crossing the river for a 5-hour loop.

The viewpoint of the Roche Merveilleuse is a must when visiting the cirque of Cilaos. From the viewpoint accessible by a staircase, take the time to admire the exceptional panorama of the village, surrounded by its immense ramparts. Then, plunge into the undergrowth, for a walk in the heart of the botanical path. This short family walk offers many indications on the local flora, with panels describing the plant species in an original way. You can reach the viewpoint on foot from the village or by car.