The town of Cilaos is near the island's center, lying within the Cirque de Cilaos, one of the island's three mountain basins. Ringed by Grand Bernard, Gros-Morne and Pitton des Neiges, the area is a great place for hiking. The region affords beautiful vistas, and there are places where steam rises from the ground. You'll get some great views as you approach the town by road, but the hilly curves are a bit hair-raising.
Colonists turned the town into a spa-resort area in the 19th century, taking to the waters regularly. For a reasonable fee, you can do the same at the hot springs (Les Thermes) just above town. The building is new, but the source is the same. In town, visit the Embroidery House to learn about the traditional craft. Other attractions include the Taibit Mountain pass and the Grand Matarum forest. The temperature is moderate year-round. 18 mi/30 km south of St. Denis.
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