It’s no secret that Europe is a bit of a trek for a one week getaway, but what if I told you that you could get to a part of France in a few hours flat? No, I haven’t managed to find a secret teleport machine – it’s none other than New Caledonia.
A quick poll around the lastminute office confirms my suspicions – although New Caledonia is one of our closest neighbours, not many people know about it. Here are my top 5 reasons to go.
1: France’s best kept secret is the island next door
This sub-tropical haven offers the best of both worlds – utterly uh-mazing beaches (sorry St Tropez you were great, but your beaches just don’t compare) and French culture. Welcome to island paradise with a French twist. Yippie!
You’ll find New Caledonia in the Pacific Ocean between Australia and Fiji. The natural beauty of this place blows me away and I am surprised there are no crowds. We Aussies are quick to complain that we are far away from everything – well, there’s a whole new world next door so guys, pack your bags and get ready to explore!
2. Reef, beaches and lagoons, oh my
Where can you find the world’s largest lagoon? NC of course!
Over 24,000kms of coral reef means the lagoon is perfect for snorkelling. If you are lucky enough, you might see a dugong or turtle and according to UNESCO, New Caledonia has the third largest population of these in the world. And if you don’t wanna get your hair wet, you can watch playful dolphins, plenty of tropical fish and turtles just off shore. I am most impressed with the gorgeous beaches. With clear water and super soft sand, it’s the very definition of paradise. There are a number of islands to explore here; my favourite being the Isle of Pines.
We stock up on plenty of champagne, cheese, fresh fruit and crackers for a picnic on the beach.
| Hot Tip: The shops and restaurants are few and far between on the Isle of Pines, so it’s best to buy on the mainland. As we settle into our picnic, we have a few local children come dance and pose for pictures. |
The capital Nouméa is perfect for kite and wind surfing with a number of world championships held here. You can find people careening around the ocean which is entertaining to watch as they get some serious speed and air.
After all the lazing around and cheese eating, we hire a bike and venture around the Isle of Pines. It’s a great way to explore as the island is relatively small (around 10kms in diameter) and there aren’t too many steep climbs. Bikes can be hired from resorts on the island. We collect ours from Hotel Kou-Bugny and exploring the abandoned prison tucked away in the bush. We also hike up the mountain nearby to take in the view.
3. Wining and dining in Noumea
If there are two things I love when it comes to food, it has to be French cuisine and fresh seafood – and New Caledonia has both. I eat to my heart’s content! Especially the freshly made croissants and French pastries for breakfast –I have them almost every morning!
Noumea has plenty of dining options, Le Roof is probably one of my favourite places due to the unique ambience. We dine out on the balcony over the water and watch a playful dolphin and tropical fish swim around. A local tells us sharks have also been seen here. Eeep!
The selection of French wines is also something to rave about, I should warn you about the spirits though. Unlike Australia’s carefully measured shots, they generously free-pour in New Caledonia, which is easy on the hip pocket but results in a very sore head in the morning!
I have a feeling that the large servings of alcohol may be a contributing factor in the locals knowing how to party. 😉
4. Rest and relaxation
The Isle of Pines is perfect for serious R & R; it’s so remote and tranquil. If you are lucky enough, you might even have the beaches to yourself.
The Le Piscine Naturel aka natural pool, is just like swimming in an aquarium, framed by a prehistoric looking backdrop of pine forests. The Meridien Ile des Pins hotel is close by so we enjoy a nice lunch and head straight back to the beach.
It’s not just the beaches that provide relaxation, check out this beautiful forest.
Being in the South Pacific, there is a much more laidback vibe than the sophisticated and polished streets of France. I feel comfortable in my beach clothes for the majority of the trip.
Most of the upmarket hotels have day spas which I take advantage of. We are very happy customers after walking out of the spas at Le Meridien Ile des Pins and the Chateau Royal Beach Resort Spa. Needless to say this is one of the most relaxing holidays ever.
| Hot Tip: A day at the spa is only complete with a sunset. We make sure we watch from the beach every evening; check out the incredible colours. |
5. Brush up on your French
They say the best way to learn another language is to visit the country they speak it in. So I am super keen to put my very rusty French in action.
Outside of the hotels and touristy areas, not many people speak English so it’s definitely worth brushing up on your French before you come. Oui Oui!
If you are keen to jet set away on an international trip, love island hopping and all things French, New Caledonia is the perfect place to book your next holiday.
Have you been to New Caledonia? Tell us about it in the comments.