Mountain walks

There are excellent walking opportunities in the mountains. The island has over 600km (370 miles) of marked footpaths. Good climbing is to be had among the volcanic peaks. Cilaos, once infamous as a refuge for escaped slaves, is a lovely mountain area rising to about 1,220m (4,000ft) with impressive views from Le Bras Sec and Îlet à Cordres. There is a day-trip to Grand-Îlet, taking in some spectacularly rugged scenery. Piton des Neiges is the highest point on the island and is an enjoyable hike from Hell-Bourg. Mafate is the most secluded of the valleys, unconnected by any road with the outside world.