0 Likes
New Caledonia hiking offers some spectacular vistas, especially in the southern part of Grande Terre. There are trails everywhere, alongside the rivers in the valleys right up to the very tops of the surrounding peaks.
None of these walks are especially difficult and it's a great way to get as much exercise as you need and at the same time enjoy the views. What's especially welcome is that there are no snakes, poisonous or otherwise, no leeches (at least I've never seen any) or other dangerous animals and practically no dangerous plants either. About your only worry is not tripping on a loose stone or getting too hot when there's no shade.
And all of this is less than an hour's drive from downtown Noumea.
...
New Caledonia is the closest South Pacific Island to Australia and New Zealand. It is a French Territory and although the official language is French the culture is a blend of Melanesian, European, Polynesian, Vietnamese, Chinese, Indonesian, and more. There is one large mountainous island called Grande Terre and 6 smaller islands - the three Loyalty Islands, Belep and the Isle of Pines.The islands are remarkably unpopulated and there are vast areas of wilderness. There are hundreds of kilometers of walking treks, camp grounds, more than 42 parks and reserves, and crystal clear rivers with sparkling waterfalls. Almost one third of the population is located in the capital city of Noumea. Nickel mining is the primary industry and is the major contributor to the high standard of living in the country. Grande Terre is surrounded by the second largest barrier reef in the world and the protected lagoon created by this barrier reef is the largest in the world. Listed as a World Heritage Site in 2008, the lagoon is 24,000 square kilometers and supports a diverse and luxuriant fauna of fish and invertebrates.The vibrant, clear and rich colors are one of the first things that visitors notice when they arrive. Noumea has a complete range of hotels, resorts, restaurants, and activities to welcome visitors.
