24h on the Isle of Pines

It all started in Nouméa, where Steven and I boarded the Betico, bound for the Isle of Pines. The crossing starts at 6:00 am. During the 2½-hour sail, breakfast was available on board.

While crossing, make sure to visit the “Sun Deck” for a mesmerising view of the marine life as it glitters and gleams in the boat’s wake. It’s an unmissable spectacle where the sun dances on the horizon, its first rays gently kissing the ocean, signalling the start of an exciting day of exploration and adventure.

Helpful tip: Multiple boat departures are available weekly. Alternatively, for those opting to fly, Air Calédonie offers a convenient 30-minute flight from Nouméa-Magenta domestic airport.

After our morning underwater escape, we found solace beneath the coconut trees at the Kougny snack bar. With sand between our toes and the soothing sound of waves in the background, we enjoyed a delicious lunch.

The menu featured perfectly grilled lobster paired with carefully prepared Bulimulus snails, a local delicacy that tantalised our taste buds with novel flavours. The lobster was exquisite, its tender flesh effortlessly separating from its rosy shell.

Le Kougny, with its laid-back vibes and idyllic surroundings, provides the ideal spot to unwind and soak in the gentle rhythm of the ocean waves. Leaving with satisfied appetites, we were eager to explore the remaining treasures that the Isle of Pines had in store for us.

We highly recommend embarking on the Pic N’Ga climb for a memorable afternoon activity. With the sun shining brightly above, we thoroughly enjoyed this fantastic hike.

The recently renovated trail attracts adventurers of all levels, offering great accessibility and even a bench to pause, catch your breath, and take in the stunning landscape.

The ascent, lasting about 50 minutes, is mostly gentle, with only a brief, steeper stretch that takes around ten minutes. This hike is ideal for families, as it’s perfectly manageable even with children, making it a fantastic family activity.

Reaching the summit, we were greeted by an utterly breathtaking 360-degree panorama.

Helpful tip: We suggest opting for a sturdy pair of athletic shoes to ensure your comfort along the way.

As night fell, we found ourselves at Le Méridien Île des Pins hotel, our go-to haven whenever we set foot on the Île des Pins!

The staff, always attentive, tended to every detail to ensure our stay was flawless. Steven has a soft spot for the panoramic bungalow, boasting a breathtaking view of the lagoon, while I prefer the beach bungalows. They offer a more intimate setting, with the delightful luxury of strolling barefoot on the sand right outside your door. And there’s nothing quite like drifting off to sleep on a supremely comfortable bed after a day filled with adventure!

In the morning, breakfast surpassed our expectations: hearty and diverse. From omelettes to scrambled eggs, fresh fruit to homemade French pastries for the foodies among us – it was a feast for the senses.

Just one night at Le Méridien and you’ll feel rejuvenated, whether you’re gearing up for a new adventure or simply savouring this delightful break.