EMBROIDERY HOUSE
Read moreAngèle Mac-Auliffe, daughter of the first doctor of Cilaos, introduced the young girls of the circus to embroidery. Today, the Maison's president, Suzanne Maillot, Meilleur Ouvrière de France, continues the tradition. Exhibited in the style of the great galleries, you'll find household and table linens. The tour explains the "jours" technique, handed down through the generations, and the time needed to complete the work. It takes three months to make a one-meter table throw. You can also meet the embroiderers. A warm welcome awaits you.
EMBROIDERIES OF CILAOS (HANDICRAFT OF MRS TECHER)
Read moreAn 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.
NOTRE-DAME DES NEIGES
Read moreSo 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.
MARE À JONCS
Read moreWhen 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.
OFFICE DE TOURISME DE CILAOS
Read moreIdeal 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.
ATELIER PHILIPPE TURPIN
Read moreThis 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.
BOTTLING PLANT
Read more.' s water is naturally sparkling and highly appreciated by gourmets. It has been bottled since 1999.
BRODERIE DE CILAOS (ARTISANAT DE MME GRONDIN)
Read moreAt 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.
CASCADE DE BRAS ROUGE
Read moreA 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.
LA ROCHE MERVEILLEUSE
Read moreThe 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.