Last year felt like one of the wettest years we’ve ever experienced in Auckland, and so it was with great joy and great relief that we left the rain behind to luxuriate in the warmth and sunshine that is Noum.a. Our week-long sojourn in this sundrenched haven provided not just respite from Auckland’s wet, but a delightful immersion into the enchanting fusion of French sophistication and Pacific Island allure that is New Caledonia.
The city exudes a palpable pride in its French identity, boasting a gastronomic tapestry rich in charcuteries, confectioners, bakers, and restaurants. From the culinary prowess of French chefs to a cityscape that effortlessly weaves together ornate colonial mansions and sleek modern edifices, Nouméa quickly captured our imagination.
As this experience unfolded, we realised that possibly one of the aspects of our stay that we enjoyed the most, was the casual elegance and easy-going charm of our chosen accommodation. The discovery of Chateau Royal, the result of an online search for Local Resort, was a serendipitous find. Originally conceived as part of the Club Med family, Chateau Royal beckoned us, and we were so glad that it did – for our stay there was unforgettable for all the right reasons.
From the impeccable, well-appointed, spacious accommodation to the warm, friendly, and attentive staff, the exquisite dining experience, to the rejuvenating spa, every aspect was excellent.
The beachfront deck boasted stunning views and a crystal-clear icy pool, that just begged one to dive in. We loved the Aquatonic® Spa Pool so much that we indulged daily. Like an aquatic labyrinth, Aquatonic® Spa Pool incorporates water massage zones with jet and bubble baths, counter-current water walking, showers – all treating different body parts with different intensities and positionings – and other interesting water features.
Conveniently located close to town and on a bus route, our accommodation oasis blended pristine cleanliness with captivating style and our stay there was truly pure holiday bliss.
My favourite memory is a simple one – the sunset ritual. Held daily on the meticulously groomed front lawn, it’s enjoyed not only by those staying at the hotel, but by many residents of Nouméa who would stop by on their way home. Nestled in the comfortable embrace of a Chateau Royal deckchair (glass of chilled prosecco in hand), the view across the sandy shore and serene blue sea is always breathtaking. As the sun gracefully dips below the horizon, bidding adieu to yet another resplendent day, the hues of twilight cast a spell that will linger in our hearts forever.
Suggested Activities & Places to Visit
Arc en Ciel guided city tour of Noumea
Highly recommended. An excellent way to orient yourself to Noumea.
arcenciel.nc/en/home
Amedee Island day trip
If you can choose one thing to do while visiting Noumea, this is it! An all-round idyllic experience.
amedeeisland.com/amedee-lighthouse
The Great South
Book a guided tour with Toutazimut (booking required early) or to explore on your own.
toutazimut.nc/en/home
Ile des Pins
newcaledonia.travel/nz/islands/ile-pins
Baie des Citrons
Lemon Bay café
Instagram: @lemonbaycafe
Anse-Vata Bay
Le Roof
Spectacular location perched over the water on the end of a pier over the Anse Vata Bay.
cuenet.nc/roof
Orphelinat Bay
Au péché mignon
aupechemignon.nc/patisseries
Port Moselle
Local market
nouvellecaledonie.travel/destination/noumea/marche-port-moselle
Useful Tips
Getting there:
Air Calin: aircalin.co.nz/en
Air New Zealand: airnewzealand.co.nz
Highly recommended:
Hire a pocket Wi-Fi dongle and pick it up at the NC Pocket Wi-Fi shop on your arrival at the airport to use as your source of internet during the trip.
ncpocketwifi.com/en/top-up
Plugs:
Power adaptors are the same as in Europe.
whatplug.info/from/newzealand/to/newcaledonia
Money:
The Pacific franc is tied to the euro at a fixed exchange rate. The current rate is: 1 euro = 119.3 XPF. (We used a combination of local currency, and Visa and Mastercard.)
More info:
newcaledonia.travel
Fun Facts New Caledonia
A Unesco World Heritage Site, New Caledonia boasts stunning lagoons and coral reefs which are among the world’s finest due to their exceptional beauty, diversity, and the health of the ecosystem. Its 24,000-sq-km lagoon is one of the world’s largest marine reserves.
As a French overseas territory, all its residents are French citizens who all have the right to live and work in France without any restrictions, and vice versa.
New Caledonia is home to one of the world’s largest nickel reserves. The Kanak people of New Caledonia (around 40% of the population) are indigenous Melanesians with rich traditions, cultural diversity, and a strong connection to their land.
WORDS —
FRAN NINOW
