The cirque of Cilaos mountains & art of living
The highest-perched cirque, at the foot of the Piton des Neiges: the legendary road of 400 bends, a mountain village, its thermal baths, embroidery, wine and lentils. Complimentary morning snack.
The perched cirque, between mountains and tradition
Cilaos is the high mountains of Reunion Island: a cirque nestled at the foot of the Piton des Neiges (3,071 m), the highest point in the whole Indian Ocean. You reach it by the spectacular road of 400 bends, one of the most impressive on the island. Up there await a village of real character, its thermal springs, famed embroidery, wine and renowned lentils.
Cruise passengers: tour not bookable
With 2h30 up and just as long down, the timing of Cilaos doesn’t fit a cruise stopover. We’ll gladly steer you toward a tour better suited to your time ashore — Maïdo, Salazie or the island tour.
Your day in Cilaos
The road of 400 bends
Pick-up at your accommodation — early start recommended, not mandatory. The climb to Cilaos (about 2h30) takes the legendary road of 400 bends: narrow tunnels, hairpin turns and dizzying views. A spectacle in itself.
La Roche Merveilleuse
A laid-out viewpoint offering a sweeping view over the whole cirque of Cilaos, its ramparts and the Piton des Neiges. This is where we share the complimentary morning snack.
The village of Cilaos
A stroll through the mountain village: the church, the thermal baths, the Maison de la Broderie (local craft, optional) and the Creole atmosphere of the highlands. On Sunday mornings, the open-air market enlivens the centre (7 am–12 pm).
La Mare à Joncs
A pretty pool at the foot of the ramparts, a favourite walking spot for the people of Cilaos, in a mountain setting — perfect for a quiet break.
Lunch optional
At a restaurant — a chance to taste the famous lentils of Cilaos —, or with a stop at a good bakery or snack bar we know to put together your picnic. Lunch is not included in the price (see the options below).
The Cilaos winery & Îlet à Cordes optional
Cilaos is the cradle of Reunion wine: a visit and tasting at the Cilaos winery. On request only, and depending on time and season, a detour via Îlet à Cordes (home of the lentils, about 10 km more) is possible — never automatic. Admissions indicative, optional.
The descent & the return
Back down the 400 bends (about 2h30), with fresh viewpoints at every turn, before a relaxed return to your accommodation.
A spectacular… and winding road
The road of 400 bends is magnificent, but very winding (allow about 2h30 up). If you’re prone to motion sickness, let your driver know: we adjust the pace and add plenty of breaks — and a tablet before departure can help.
Two options, your choice
At a restaurant
A chance to taste the lentils of Cilaos and the Creole cuisine of the highlands. We recommend the best spots.
As a picnic
A stop at a bakery or snack bar we know — known for their good products — to buy lunch. Flexible, friendly and local.
Lunch is not included in the tour price — you choose the option on the day.
Site admissions (optional)
- Maison de la Broderie≈ 1 €
- Cilaos winery (adult / reduced)11 € / 6 €
- Cilaos thermal baths35 – 45 €
Prices and hours are set by the sites themselves, given as a guide and subject to change; not included. The thermal baths are booked directly with the establishment, by you.
Included in the tour
- Sedan (up to 4 people) or 9-seater Van — 8 passengers, driver included — air-conditioned and private
- Bilingual FR/EN driver-guide
- Pick-up at your accommodation
- Complimentary snack le matin
- Water on board
Practical details
Book Cilaos
Choose your option on our online booking page. We then get back to you with a quote and a payment link (30% deposit). Full day Sedan (up to 4 people) 395 € · Full day 9-seater Van — 8 passengers, driver included — 460 €.
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