New Caledonia Sights and Attractions

New Caledonia Sights and Attractions

If you are eager to visit a tropical paradise on the far side of the world that combines exotic wonders with European charm, then look no further than New Caledonia. The welcoming residents of this beautiful group of islands speak both Melanesian-Polynesian dialects and that downright disarming language of lovers known as French. If this suggestion of linguistic allure does not convince you to visit, then keep on reading for New Caledonia sights and attractions.

Noumea

The main island of Grand Terre is a long stretch of land brimming with activities, serving as a hub for the archipelago. After all, it is home to Noumea, the capital of New Caledonia. The city features colonial mansions and numerous museums. With 100,000 inhabitants, it is by no means a big city, but it has a resplendent charm to offer.

The West Coast

If you’ve ever dreamed of going horse riding on the sunset bathed meadows of tall grass, you have to visit the West Coast of Grand Terre. The expansive grass fields are lined with mountain tops covered in blue haze, and the cattle ranches lend the entire sight an idyllic, rustic feel. In a way, it is a Wild West on the Far East.

If you get a chance, visit a legendary Pilou mine near the former mining village; it is a true tourist attraction. If you are travelling here with your better half, try to hop on a helicopter ride to see the Heart of Voh – which is, believe it or not, a natural formation. This corner of the island is truly rich in some incredible sights, so you can stay in the locally popular Sheraton New Caledonia as you unpack the secrets of the West Coast.

The East Coast

The East Coast offers incredible topography and lush flora. It is a perfect backdrop for hikers and adventurists. If you ever get to trek through the greenery of the East Coast, you will certainly notice how humid this part of New Caledonia is, and it is due to its exposure to strong winds. It is a rather narrow coastal strip populated with residents predominantly of Melanesian origin.

Poindimié is an immensely appealing small village, and the coastline is riddled with scuba diving and snorkelling hotspots for all you underwater daredevils. If you have some extra time on your hands, the small island of Tibarama is an adorable treat.

The Great South

The Great South boasts a completely different look than other parts of Grand Terre. With the stark red and orange color of its dirt, it resembles mostly the vibrant coasts of Africa. This region is home to cultural heritage sights – most notably Ouen Island and Prony village.

All of you avid hikers, while you are darting around this region, don’t miss a chance to visit the biggest park on the archipelago – the Blue River Provincial Park. However, it is the conquest of Mont-Dore that is a real treat for the bravest ones among you. This 800-meter tall behemoth looks far bigger than it actually is due to the way it towers over the surrounding valleys. Climbing to the summit is an unforgettable experience.

The enchanting islands and atolls

You can write a whole blog’s worth of material about the small islands and atolls that surround Grand Terre. The Isle of Pines near the south-eastern tip of the main island is one of the most iconic, if not the most iconic location of New Caledonia – a jaw-dropping paradise out of fantasy books. The ruins of the penal colony and the water tower in Ouro are significant historical sights, but this island is mostly popular for its natural beauties.

However, every island has something to offer and has its own charms. Ouvéa is a thin stretch of land that opens up into a gorgeous lagoon. Lifou has forests, ravines and caves ready for thrill-seeking explorers, and Maré Island has crystal clear azure shallows for snorkelling enthusiasts who want to marvel at the underwater flora and get intimately close to marine fauna.

And this is where the only problem lies with visiting the diverse islands of New Caledonia – they are so filled to the brim with sights, attractions and activities, that it is hardly fair to spend only a meagre week or two weeks down there. In order to get a full grasp of what the archipelago offers, you’d have to spend there a whole month.

It is remarkable how diverse the landscapes of New Caledonia are. From incredible rock formations and enchanting coral reefs to expansive sandy beaches and gentle stretches of overgrown slopes – the islands will seduce you with their beauties without a shadow of a doubt.