Unlike its volcanic neighbors, New Caledonia is a fragment of an ancient continent which drifted away some 250 million years ago. Its flora and fauna evolved in isolation, and are now quite unique. Five hundred kilometers long, fifty kilometers wide, New Caledonia offers an endless variety of landscapes, from some of the best white sand beaches in the Pacific to spectacular mountain retreats. Surrounded by a 1,600 km long coral reef, New Caledonia also boasts the largest lagoon in the world. New Caledonia is the third largest island in the Pacific Region after Papua New Guinea and New Zealand.

Eighty kilometers south-east of Noumea lies the enchanting Isle of Pines (14 km wide, 18 km long) a place where time seems to stand still in an idyllic setting of white beaches under swaying palms and soaring Araucaria pines. The Isle of Pines is situated 20 minutes by air from Noumea.

"Kunié ", as it is still called by the inhabitants, is as beautiful under water as it is on land and a favorite spot for divers.

To make the most of the Isle of Pines' diversity, ideally you'll need to stay at least two or three days to combine minibus excursions, with bicycle rides, walks or car rental trips.

Excursions by canoe, glass-bottom boat, yacht, as well as magnificent underwater dives are also available.