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>> Ouvea, the smallest land of New Caledonia
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Ouvea, the smallest land of New Caledonia
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Ouvea
The smallest of the three main Islands in the Loyalties is a superb atoll where fish are abundant and are the principal source of incomefor the local people. Here time stands still : the air is suspended between a clear blue sky and a transparent expanse of sea. In a halo of coral light, marvellous beaches of powder fine white sand stretch out, unique parakeets flutter here and there. Ouvea is a magic island.
Air Calédonie offers daily scheduled 45 minute flights from Magenta Airport in Nouméa to Ouvéa Island. The domestic airline and local travel agencies supply packages including air transport + transfers + meals + excursions, however these services can be booked separately.
Sights at Lekine
-Les Falaise de Lekine (Cliffs at Lekine): The high grey cliffs of Lekine, dotted with caves overlooking the bay, are situated 6km south of Fayaoué. A track follows the beach towards the east, leading to a marshy area between the sand strip and the cliffs.
-Le Pont de Mouli (Mouli bridge): A splendid view of Lékine Bay and Mouli Island.
Sights at Fayaoué
-Fayaoué Beach: A 25 km long, magnificient white sand beach bordered with coconut palms.
-Le Trou Bleu d'Anawa (Blue Hole of Anawa): A series of waterholes where the fresh water and the salt water remain separate. Some of these holes act as a natural swimming pool for the children of the island and a refuge for the turtles. Anawa is the narrowest part of the isthmus. It marks the boundary between the Fayaoué and the Wénéki districts.
-La Grotte de Cong-Ouloup (Cong-Ouloup cave): Layers sculptured into limestone. You must be accompanied by a guide and do not forget to take a torch with you. This cave can only be visited by requesting an authorisation from the Chief of the tribe which must be accompanied by the usual "customary gift". Legend has it that the cave sheltered the gods of the Canala region (Mainland tribes), during the invasion of Ouvéa by some Mainland people. The track leading to the clifftop will reward you with an impressive view.
Sights at Saint-Joseph
-Saint-Joseph: This district groups together the Takedji, an independent tribe from Wallis and the Eot tribe, populated by the original inhabitants of the island Beautemps-Beaupré taking refuge in Ouvéa. The Saint-Joseph Church is famous for its arched wooden ceiling and its kohu (local wood) pulpit.
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