1 PAYET & RIVIÈRE FOR ARTISANAL SUGAR, SYRUPS AND BONBONS
You've never tasted sugar quite like galabé, a heritage delicacy made from sugar cane juice that takes various forms – from thick, dark syrups to crystallised sugar, caramel spread and melt-in-the-mouth bonbons. Book a tour of the micro-factory on the historic Bel Air estate where artisans craft products endorsed by French chefs such as Michelin-starred Anne-Sophie Pic. Owner Alexis Rivière shares insight into the products: “There is sweetness, but there is also depth due to different chemical reactions, such as the Maillard reaction, during production. The syrup can be used in marinades, vinaigrettes and cocktails. Serve the bonbons with coffee after dinner.” 50 Chemin Transversal du Bel Air, Saint-Suzanne; @payetetriviere
2 CHEZ BILLY FOR LUNCH AT A FAMILY-RUN CREOLE RESTAURANT
A drive through the cirque de Salazie brings you to the picturesque mountain village of Hell-bourg. It's home to traditional Creole restaurant Chez Billy, which is run