Sure, this South Pacific archipelago offers barefoot lagoon bliss in spades, but its fascinating culture and breadth of experiences is what makes it so intriguing.
New Caledonia may feel like another world, but its breathtaking natural beauty, exciting experiences and intriguing cultural activities are just a hop, skip and jump away from mainland Australia. Thanks to Aircalin’s flights from Brisbane (two hours) and Sydney (three hours), you’re never too far away from sinking your toes in pure-white sands, watching whales from a catamaran, swimming past stunning coral reefs or devouring some of the finest French fare outside France. Re-connect, rejuvenate or re-discover – it’s all on offer with an escape to New Caledonia.
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You’ll get a taste of France without travelling to Europe
Forget the jet lag and 24-hour flights; you’ll find a sliver of France along the shores of this Pacific paradise. New Caledonia is a French overseas territory, and it shows at every turn. Escargot and bouillabaisse are regulars on local restaurant menus; croissants and baguettes appear in bakery windows and, with French the native language, all landmarks hold a Gallic moniker – a visit to Ile Aux Canards (Islands of Ducks) anyone? Its continental heritage is further embraced with a year-round calendar of events including Bastille Day celebrations and the Francofolies French music festival, held on the lawns of Nouméa’s Tjibaou Cultural Centre.
Its experiences are as diverse as they are surprising
New Caledonia isn’t like other island paradises – there’s much more under the surface than crystal-clear waters, sugar-white sands and breathtaking landscapes. Develop a new appreciation for the great outdoors as you kayak around the La Poule de Hienghène, watch humpback whales spring out in Prony Bay or walk along the Lékiny cliffs. Learn more about Indigenous Kanak culture at the Tjibaou Cultural Centre, immerse yourself in tribe traditions and feast on bougna (an iconic dish of taro, yam, sweet potato and banana cooked in coconut milk). At the end of each day, toast to a fantastic holiday at La Bodega del Mar or L'Endroit Rooftop, two of Nouméa’s liveliest drinking dens.
Its natural beauty is jaw-dropping
In the 1990s, a French photographer flew over a mangrove forest near New Caledonia’s Voh commune when he noticed a natural clearing in the exact shape of a heart. His now iconic picture gave the world a glimpse into the territory’s natural beauty, but there’s plenty more to discover across the archipelago. The beach of your dreams awaits at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Amedee Island, home to the perfect combination of powder-white sand, translucent waters and swathes of living coral. But that’s not all – soak away the day in the natural pool of Oro Bay, or island hop to Lifou, where the azure waters of Luengoni Beach lap onto soft sand. It’s not just coastlines that catch the eye – nature reserves dotted across 140 islands are home to lush tropical forests, rushing waterfalls and so much more.
The dining is divine
The French and fine dining go hand in hand, so it shouldn’t be any surprise that Nouméa is home to some of the South Pacific’s most exceptional dining experiences. Dine among the locals at La Table des Gourmets, watch turtles swim by from your overwater spot at Le Roof or sample elevated takes on home cooking at Marmite e Tire Bouchons. Make new memories with loved ones at Le Ponton, a floating restaurant in the middle of the lagoon, or discover your new favourite drop with a wine tasting at Le Chai de l'Hippodrome. Post dinner, take your pick of buzzy bars in Baie des Citrons (Lemon Bay) or Anse Vata for a cocktail or two, before conquering the dance floor at one of the town’s colourful clubs. Our favourite for a sunset tipple? Le Faré Beach Lounge at Le Méridien Nouméa Resort & Spa or MV Lounge at Baie des Citrons, where beachside beanbags offer the perfect spot to watch the sun drop behind the horizon.
Feature image: Mont-Dore © M. Dosdane and New Caledonia Tourism.
Ready to escape? Discover our New Caledonia deals here.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out Bienvenue Paradise: 8 Reasons to Visit New Caledonia.
