A culinary adventure

For a delightful fusion of culinary delights and exploration of New Caledonia’s must-see attractions, consider the following options for your day. If you have a penchant for seafood, set off on a brief 5-minute boat journey to Le Ponton, a floating restaurant on the lagoon that offers sun loungers and a plethora of water sports activities, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkelling. It promises a fantastic time both on and in the water.

Alternatively, venture to the Amédée Lighthouse for a day excursion. The Mary D company provides an all-inclusive package for exploring the islet, a designated nature reserve, and its 56-metre-high white lighthouse. The programme encompasses an Oceanian buffet, informative sessions, presentations of local traditions, and engaging water activities.

In case the weather proves less cooperative, seek refuge in the Tjibaou Cultural Centre. Crafted by the renowned architect Renzo Piano, this cultural centre invites you to delve into Kanak culture, its art, and its captivating legends.

As evening descends, elevate your experience by savouring the finest vintages paired with exquisite tapas at Nouméa’s bistronomic wine bars, such as Chai de l’Hippodrome or 12 Glasser.

Dive into the vibrant tapestry of Kanak culture as you explore the largest of the Loyalty Islands: Lifou! Your stay will be enriched by an authentic cultural experience and encounters with local tribes. Make sure not to overlook the opportunity to partake in a table d’hôte for a true taste of Kanak cuisine, crafted from fresh local ingredients. Let dishes like vanilla fish, bougna, shellfish, and sides of manioc and yam transport you into the heart of traditional island culture.

During your visit, take a detour to a vanilla plantation, acquiring a few vanilla beans from the Maison de la Vanille before exploring Lifou’s marvellous sites and pristine beaches.

Continue your enthralling journey into Kanak territory on your second day in Lifou. Starting out from the Tamanou Beach gîte, consider a supervised fishing expedition led by a tribal member or opt for a guided hike to the Marmites du Cap des Pins. The trail leads to the reef, where the coral plateau creates natural pools perfect for a refreshing swim in calm weather. Relish a lunch featuring fish caught by visitors at the gîte.

Before unwinding on one of Lifou’s stunning beaches, such as Luengoni, Peng, or Chateaubriand. As the day draws to a close, catch your return flight to Nouméa.

In the evening, savour the culinary delights of Anse-Vata’s exquisite restaurants.

Head onto a westward adventure to the realm of horse breeders and Broussard traditions. Make a pit stop in La Foa to indulge in its specialties at a livestock farm while exploring a Broussard property.

For the night, choose an ecolodge in the municipalities of La Foa, Moindou, or Farino, all bearing the Stations Vertes label. Delight your taste buds with a meal at the Table du Banian or the Terre de Soleil gîte, where you’ll be treated to generous local cuisine crafted from the finest meats and vegetables.

Before venturing north, immerse yourself in the Great Ferns Park, either on foot, mountain bike, or horseback. This expansive green haven in New Caledonia harbours numerous endemic animal and plant species, including the cagou and the tree fern. Depending on the day, visit the Farino or Moindou market to gather provisions for your journey.

In the afternoon, try your hand at fly-fishing in Pouembout before concluding the day with dinner in Koné, the capital of the North Province.

Here you find yourself near one of New Caledonia’s most renowned landscapes: the Heart of Voh. Captured by Yann-Arthus Bertrand’s lens, this mangrove has become iconic worldwide. The optimal view is from the air. Take off on a 30-45 minute flight over the landscapes of Northern New Caledonia before resuming your journey.

Head east! The traversal of the Central Mountain Range and the route to the East unfolds changing and magnificent panoramas: mountains, tropical forests, cliffs merging into the ocean. Pause at the viewpoints indicated by signs, especially the Poule lookout on the way to Hienghène. Enjoy a picnic at one of the rest areas or unwind at Hôtel Koulnoué Village.

After enjoying your meal, jump on a boat excursion into Hienghène Bay to marvel at the Lindéralique rocks. The region is renowned for its marinated sardines, a delightful choice for a family meal at the table d’hôte! For those favouring the comfort of a restaurant, Ka Waboana in the village centre comes highly recommended.

Explore the origins of Kanak culture along the east coast of New Caledonia, immersing yourself in an authentic tribal experience. Engage in the daily life of the tribes, participating in activities such as shrimp fishing, field visits, and the preparation of bougna, a traditional dish cooked in an earth oven beneath banana leaves. Delight in this culinary marvel with your hosts! Visit the tourist office for information on activities in the area.

Alternatively, venture into the region with visits to the Hienghène market, Ouaième ferry, and Tao waterfall.

Weather permitting, consider renting a kayak in the afternoon for an up-close encounter with the Lindéralique and Poule rocks (especially if a boat trip wasn’t feasible). Conclude your day with a group dinner or at a local restaurant.

Today, a memorable 4-hour journey adorned with breathtaking landscapes awaits. Begin along the picturesque east coast, passing through Poindimié, Ponérihouen, and the beautiful Bâ waterfall. Cross the Central Mountain Range, navigate the scenic Col des Roussettes.

Then head towards the enchanting West Coast leading to Bourail. Don’t miss the iconic sites of La Roche Percée, the Baie des Tortues, and Poé beach. Depending on your pace, consider a picnic at the Bâ waterfall (pack a snack) or a light meal at Snack O’Fada in Poé.

Spend the afternoon leisurely exploring the Deva Domain or unwinding on the expansive Poé beach. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at your hotel restaurant.

Explore the vibrant offerings of the renowned west coast, providing an array of activities both on land and at sea! Opt for an authentic Broussarde experience with the Bourail Shuttle Service or discover the joys of horse-riding at the Deva Domain.

Golf enthusiasts, whether beginners or seasoned players, can indulge in a round at Exclusiv Golf Deva.

For a delightful lunch experience, we recommend the Auberge du Pêcheur in Nessadiou, a proud member of the Bienvenue à la ferme network, where you can relish in a farm-to-table dining experience.

As the day unfolds, treat yourself to a rejuvenating break at the Sheraton Hotel’s Spa in Deva, offering panoramic views of the lagoon. In the evening, revel in a leisurely dinner at your hotel restaurant.

For your culinary delights: during lunchtime, en route to Nouméa, make a pitstop at La Table d’en Haut in Port-Ouenghi or Le Pandanus snack bar in Nouméa.

Upon arrival on the Isle of Pines, the picturesque beaches of Kuto and Kanuméra unfold before you: pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant greenery. Gazing at the sunset with a refreshing drink in hand at Kuto Bay is bound to be one of the most memorable moments of your journey! In the evening, relish the dishes expertly crafted by your hotel’s chef.

Arrange a boat excursion to explore the lagoon around the Isle of Pines and take pleasure in the scenic beauty. Head towards Îlot Brosse and Îlot Moro, where snorkelling, lobster tastings, and marine wildlife observations await.

If you prefer to stay on land, join a self-guided tour to visit key sites on the island: Vao village and church, the local market, Saint-Maurice bay, the Queen Hortense Cave, the natural swimming pool, and more.

As the day winds down, relax on the shores of Oro, Kanuméra, or Kuto bay. The Isle of Pines offers delightful seafood barbecues featuring lobster and popinée, along with the island’s specialty: bulimes (large snails) prepared with garlic and parsley.

On your final day in the Isle of Pines, start your morning with an early traditional pirogue tour of the stunning Upi Bay. This pre-booked excursion kicks off with 1.5 hours of sailing amid coral rocks, offering glimpses of turtles and rays. The pirogue guide then drops you off 30 minutes’ walk from the natural swimming pool in Oro Bay, where you can observe multicoloured fishes with just a mask!

Before catching your flight back to Nouméa, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque bays of Kuto and Kanuméra.

In the evening, take a plunge into the vibrant nightlife of the capital city, with its waterfront bars and clubs!

On your final full day in New Caledonia, it’s time to explore the finest gourmet and culinary establishments in Noumea. Indulge in the delightful world of chocolates at Morand or Tonton Jules. For exquisite pastries, head to Au Pêché Mignon, and savour the renowned macarons at Passion Macaron, celebrated across the archipelago and beyond. On a hot day, Amorino ice cream parlour is a refreshing stop!

Seize the opportunity during your culinary adventures to purchase souvenirs along the Promenade and in the town centre. Les Marques Calédoniennes offers quality items featuring the emblematic New Caledonian logo.

To conclude your stay on a high note, consider reserving a spot on a catamaran for a sunset view from the Baie des Citrons (Lemon Bay)! For a taste of Nouméa’s sophisticated fusion cuisine, explore restaurants such as Au P’tit Café and Café Caché.

Depending on your departure time, you might have the chance for one final indulgence, enjoying a pastry or ice cream with a view of the lagoon at Anse-Vata or Baie des Citrons. It’s time to bid farewell to this enchanting piece of land in the heart of the South Pacific. Now, you’re prepared to continue on your path once again. Head to Nouméa-Tontouta Airport, and as we say here on the Rock: “Tata*!”
*See you later!