Enjoy The Perfect Romantic Getaway In New Caledonia

25 August 2013
Read Time: 1.6 mins

Romance comes in many guises. Although strolling hand-in-hand along a white sandy beach at sunset sounds ideal to many, some couples may seek an adventurous break or prefer to go full throttle and experience adrenaline activities together. New Caledonia's capital, Noumea, known as the Paris of the Pacific, is the ideal destination for couples to enjoy a honeymoon or a romantic getaway that appeals to their preferred style of holiday.

 New Caledonia

For Eco Couples
Take a romantic kayak trip together down the meandering Dumbea River, through the mineral-rich hills of Noumea, surrounded by tropical rainforest and rocky mountain paths. Just 15 minutes from the capital, this eco-trip is bound to strengthen the bonds between you as you glide through the clear, calm waters of the river. Raise the stakes  - and the hand holding factor - on a famous full moon kayak tour of the Drowned Forest in Blue River Provincial Park at the western end of Lac de Yate. Go horse riding, hiking and swimming.

For Adrenaline Seekers
The couples that jump together stay together. Adrenaline-charged couples won't want to miss skydiving at Oua Tom, where you can parachute or tandem jump for 40 seconds of thrilling free-fall before enjoying 10 minutes of spectacular views over land and sea. Go paragliding at Oen Toro, on the southern tip of Noumea, and experience an accrobranche treetop adventure together.

For Foodies
Indulge in a multicultural melting pot of flavours and aromas; in Noumea you can indulge in a classic French, Chinese, Vietnamese, Italian or Indonesian meal, or opt for something a little more unusual. Alternatively, visit the French style markets and prepare a romantic dinner for two, to serve with the popular locally brewed beer, Number One, or any number of fine French wines at a fraction of the price.

For Wellness Warriors
Noumea's markets cater to locals and visitors seeking the best and freshest fare available, including local fish, fruit and vegetables, which means you can pack your Tribest Personal Blender and make your daily green smoothies and fresh fruit juices, soups and raw foods from the best local ingredients. Take long walks together along the magnificent beaches, go snorkelling, swimming, and enjoy the climb – and the views – up Ouen Toro Park in Noumea's south. 

For Chilled Duos
If you're after the classic honeymoon escape, there's no beating an overwater bungalow, hours of lazing about on the beach and enjoying the occasional day out on a nearby pristine island. The Isle of Pines, the Jewel of the Pacific, promises relaxation and romance amongst ancient trees and wild orchids. Take a pirogue, a traditional outrigger sailboat, around its rocky outcrops. On intimate Amadee Island, a natural marine reserve and UNESCO heritage site, post each other letters from the Lighthouse Post Office – the world's smallest – and stroll around the circumference of the island, barefoot and hand in hand along its beautiful white sandy beaches.

Xanthe Coward

Xanthe's favourite travel destinations are the Greek Islands, Indonesia, Fiji and Vanuatu. With a background in performing arts, fine food, wine and good times, Xanthe enjoys travel that brings her close to the locals and their leisure activities. Being a theatre reviewer means that Xanthe will always do dinner and a show before checking out the late night city scene and still be up early to find the markets and a decent pot of chai.