The Great South - Explore somewhere NEW
'La Grande Terre' or the mainland, which stretches north and south of Noumea, offers a diverse range of scenery, sights and activities.
Panoramic mountains, beautiful forests, picturesque lakes, spectacular waterfalls, large cattle country, quaint Melanesian villages, old convict settlements, a myriad of beautiful tropical islets, deserted beaches and so much more.
20 minutes from Noumea, Mont Dore (the golden mountain) offers excellent panoramic views and its own natural spring water.
The famous Blue River Provincial Park is only 60 kms from Noumea and is home to a magnificent botanical forest (featuring a 1,000 year old, 40 metre high Kaori) and many unique and endemic animal species such as the Cagou bird.
The Yate district is excellent for bushwalking and 4WD trips, and features the picturesque Madeleine Falls.
To the north, you quickly reach the Dumbea district which features Mount Koghi and Fayard Park on the banks of the Dumbea River. La Foa is famous for its new George Guillermet Square, the Marguerite Bridge and the Oua Tom Melanesian Village.
In the small village of Moindou you will find Fort Teremba, the remnants of an old military fortress which is known for its sound and light show.
Bourail is the last village before the northern province, with its dramatic coastline, pioneer museum, war cemetery and the fantastic Poé Beach, the longest beach on the west coast
Thio village is surrounded by a ring of hills, whose green sides contrast dramatically with the fierce red of the summit mines. It is also famous for its Mining Museum, lovely beaches and Melanesian stone carvings.
The options are only limited by your imagination.
