The Cirque de Cilaos is the sunniest and driest of the island's three cirques. Dominated by the Piton des Neiges, which rises to an altitude of 3,071m (the roof of the Indian Ocean), this cirque was once the favourite refuge of the "Black Maroons", runaway slaves. From the town of Saint-Denis, where Roland Garros international airport is located, take the RN1 south towards the towns of Saint-Paul, via the Route des Tamarins, and then towards Saint-Louis. To get there by car, it takes around 1 hours' drive from Saint-Louis. Once you arrive at Cilaos, you'll discover sumptuous landscapes dominated by mountains, a small lake ideal for relaxing and pedal-boating, numerous hiking trails for enthusiasts and impressive rivers and waterfalls. What's more, in the heart of the village you'll find the famous market where you can buy local specialities such as rice, Cilaos wine and wonderful souvenirs.
