Home > New-Caledonia > New-Caledonia, Isle of pines, tourism, photos and informations
| The Isle of Pines is a breathtakingly beautiful haven
of peace inhabited by the incredibly warm Kanak people. Some people say
that is the "closest thing to paradise" and we can certainly
vouch for them... |
The Isle of Pines, or Kunie, as it is called in Kanak, is a little piece
of land to the south of the big island. The island is 11 miles long and
8.6 miles wide, and has 1600 inhabitants. All is calm, serene, beautiful,
and tranquil there. It epitomizes the sweet life typical of the Pacific
Islands.
Nevertheless, the French decided to build a penitentiary there to imprison
the Paris Communards in 1872. A prison in paradise? It's a little idiotic.
The few prisoners who tried to escape all drowned trying to get off the
island. |
 |
 |
In Vao, the largest town, every person you meet greets you with a "bonjour"
that you will be more than glad to return. Daily living is organized around
the tribe, its sense of community, festivals and ceremonies. It's a very
emotionally moving experience to see how the Kanaks live, as they are
an exemplary people on more than one count. There is Kuto Bay and Kanumera
Cove to the southwest, the unbelievable Upi Bay which you visit in a pirogue,
Oro Bay, with its magnificent lagoon, and the natural swimming pool to
the North. Don't forget the majestic Colonial pines (where the name comes
from) that you'll see all over the island. They can grow to be as much
as 200 feet tall! |
|
Don't miss the Deportees Cemetery, nor the the Diving Club at Gadji,
or the Ouindea grotto. Don't forget your snorkeling equipment so that
you can admire the spectacular sealife. To get around on the island, go
by bicycle. It's the best way to get around and to meet the islanders.
Most of the Inns on the island have mountaint bikes for rent.
When Captain Cook discovered the island for the first time, he didn't
dare come to shore because of all the fires burning in the night... he
didn't know what he was missing! |
 |
Magazine about New-Caledonia |
Nouméa
Noumea has all the charm of a modern city on the banks of a beautiful lagoon. Capitol city of New Caledonia ...
Discover also :
|
 |
|
Go to New-Caledonia |
|
|
|
|
|
France :