With its sharp reliefs, vertiginous ramparts and subtle light, the Cirque de Cilaos was made to inspire painters and poets. Its courteous and hospitable inhabitants, ancestral specialities - lentils, wine and embroidery - and salutary hot springs contribute to the appeal of this austere, awe-inspiring location. There are also countless hiking trails for different ability levels. To get there you will need to take the incredible Cilaos road, which has no less than 400 turns along a length of 30km.