This self-drive itinerary explores a less touristic, more authentic side of Grande Terre. Enjoy the best Noumea’s sunset from the private beach of your hotel on the Anse Vata Bay. After a day tour to the beautiful Amadee Island, pick up your hired vehicle and head to Poe’, famous for its crystal water bays and giant pines. Spend one night in Kone’, island’s north main city, continue through the Kone’-Tiwaka way linking the eastern coast to the western. Before reaching Hienghène enjoy spectacular views over black limestone cliffs forming interesting figures such as the famous Hen or Sphinx.
Continuing to Poindimié the landscape changes to lush vegetation, mountain peaks, white sand beaches. Learn more about the culture and customs of the local people by visiting a Melanesian house. The coast between Poindimié and Kouaoua is an emblem of all New Caledonian landscapes with its “Ponerihouen” coconut palms, mountains covered in lush forest, steep cliffs dropping to the ocean and peaks covered in red nickel. A windy road crossing Grande Terre to Farino is extremely picturesque. Visit the Giant Fern Park with its dry, dense forest rich in biodiversity and endemic species like the Cagou, (New Caledonian singing bird) & Green Pigeon before returning to Noumea.
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