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Le Meridien Ile des Pins
Kou - Bugny Hotel
Kuberka Relay
Oure Lodge
Kodjeue Relay
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Isle of Pines |
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The Isle of Pines (Ile des Pins) was discovered and named by
Captain Cook in 1774, and is called 'Kunie‘ by the local Melanesians. The
island is around 18 km long and 14
km wide, and is world renowned for its
unspoilt beauty and truly carefree lifestyle. |
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As the name implies, the island has a truly distinctive pine
tree skyline, which is beautifully offset against perfect white sandy
beaches and turquoise lagoons. There are also several small islets within
the island‘s protective reef. |
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The island offers a unique insight into the Melanesian
lifestyle, and a few days here is something you will
never forget. |
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The IsIe of Pines is only a short
scheduled flight from Nouméa‘s domestic Magenta
Airport with domestic carrier Air Caledonie, covering the 70
km in under 20 minutes. The flight usually offers excellent
sightseeing and photographic opportunities. Transfers are also available on
the Betico, a regular motorised catamaran service. |
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What to See |
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In 1872, a penal colony was established on the
IsIe of Pines and operated until 1912. Today, you can
visit the old stone ruins and the historic cemetery, providing an
interesting contrast with the Island‘s natural beauty. You can discover even
older exhibits including ancient rock drawings, Lapita pottery and huge bird
bones that date back around 2,000 years. |
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The island also boasts some fantastic flora and fauna. Apart
from the majestic colonary pine trees there are sandalwood and rosewood
trees, delicately interspersed with wild tropical orchids, ferns and palms. |
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Island life is typified by the main village of Vao, with its
distinctive Melanesian architecture and layout, as well
as the picturesque church that dates back to 1860. The traditional aspects
of life on this remarkable island will ensure your stay is a memorable one. |
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What to Do |
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The island is an ideal size to explore by rental car. There
are also a number of tours and excursions available. |
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Apart from the amazing selection of water-based activities
that the magnificent lagoons of the IsIe of Pines
offer, the island has some hidden treasures that should not be missed.
lncluding the Reine Hortense Caves‘ which, legend says, was the retreat of
Queen Hortense during tribal wars which took place at the beginning of the
century. |
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One of the highlights is to snorkel in crystal clear lagoons
that are home to a wide variety of colourful coral, bright starfish, shells,
tropical fish, turtles and so much more. For those wanting to go scuba
diving, there are some excellent dive sites, including underwater caves. |
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Bareboat or skippered yacht charters are available from Kuto
Bay. On the other hand you may wish to experience an Upi Bay cruise aboard a
Pirogue‘ - a traditional Melanesian sailing
outrigger. |
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