New Caledonia Travel Guide

Combining the style of the French with the unsurpassed hospitality of the South Pacific, New Caledonia can provide a holiday like no other. Sun, sand, sea and the unsurpassed cuisine together create the ultimate combination for a relaxing island holiday.

History & culture

New Caledonia was first inhabited by the Melanesians around 3000 years ago and its ancient culture is still evident in the way of life of many of the locals today. Nouméa, the capital is also associated with some of the greatest adventurers of all time. Cook discovered New Caledonia in the late 1700's, while in transit to New Zealand. However it was Napoleon III who became captivated by the island when he came across it almost 100 years later, and he declared Nouméa a part of France. Since then Nouméa has been compared to the French Riviera in the Pacific and is well known for being the biggest and most stylishly european style city among the South Pacific isles. Fine food and wine that would look at home in the delicatessens of Paris are sold beside traditional foods such as coconuts in the local fresh food markets, while on the water luxury yachts float alongside outrigger canoes that have been unchanged for centuries. On shore old friends gather to play petanque in the shade of swaying palm trees in the afternoons.

Islands & resorts

The main island of Grand Terre is the largest of a number of atolls that together make up New Caledonia. Known as the Rock (‘La Roche’) to the local inhabitants, there is much more to the main island than just the city of Nouméa. Five star is the way to go to experience New Caledonia if you can do it and there are several wonderful choices. Outside the capital Nouméa the first stop for most visitors is be the Isle of Pines, with it's gorgeous long beaches and blue lagoon, interesting volcanic geology, coral reef and of course the tall pines for which it is named. The island is sometimes called the ‘Jewel of the Pacific’, and relaxing here for a few days will explain why. More luxury Le Méridien style can be found here, along with some more affordable bungalows in the Hotel Oure Isle of Pines.

Some of the best landscapes in New Caledonia can be found on the Loyalty Islands which include Lifou Island, Maré Island and Ouvéa Island. Here you can discover traditional Kanak life and here ancient legends as they have been passed down from generation to generation. The locals keenly preserve the traditions of the territory. There are a great range of quaint and affordable accommodation for those who want to take advantage of the peace and seclusion for more than just a day trip.

Nature

New Caledonia is one of the richest areas of biodiversity anywhere on earth, there are around 3000 native plant species, 4500 species of terrestrial animals and 68 varieties of birds. One particular bird, the flightless cagou, is a national symbol and is a key one to tick off for birdwatchers.The largest lagoon on earth is also found here and is home to hundreds of marine species which can be observed while diving or snorkelling in the warm water. There are dugongs, nautilus whales and countless numbers of tropical coral and fish. On land the natural landscape is dramatic and diverse, it is home to magnificent plants and animals, ancient mountains, stunning forests that are startling against the sparkling blue waters. There are plenty of opportunities to explore either on your own or in organised treks and tours.

Dining

One of the key areas that makes New Caledonia such a popular destination is the food. World-renowned French cuisine is on offer at many great restaurants, and there is plenty of french food and wine that is brought in direct from France and is accompanied by locally baked breads, croissants and patisseries. Fresh local produce completes the picture with luscious tropical fruits and fresh seafood.

The diverse cultural influences of New Caledonia is also reflected on the plate and in the variety of restaurants that line the dining areas. Italian, Chinese, Indonesian, Japanese and Vietnamese to traditional Melanesian cooking, there is something for any taste or budget. Enjoy a romantic beach picnic under the palm trees or relax in a streetside cafe.

Shopping

The latest designs from Paris, a huge range of French perfume and cosmetics, and European shoes aplenty can all be found in Nouméa’s elegant boutiques. Don't miss the local markets which are full of handcrafted souvenirs and curio's, and are a fun way to experience the local culture.