With immaculate beaches, secluded coves andtree-covered cliffs, Lifou is every bit a tropical island paradise. Beyond thesumptuous natural beauty, this island is also a destination with culturaldiversity and delectable cuisines.
Lifou is the largest of the Loyalty Islands, a groupof islands situated in the Pacific Ocean. It forms part of the French-ownedarchipelago of New Caledonia.
A good place to start is We, the island’s largest village, which overlooks ChateaubriandBay. Browse market stalls run by the island’s Kanak people, who blendMelanesian and Polynesian traditions. Visit churches that are a testament tothe work of early Catholic and Protestant missionaries.
About a 20-minute drive from We is the village of Hnathalo. Learn about the lifestyle ofthe island’s tribal cultures at the hut of the chief of the Hnathalo tribe.
Find beaches of soft white sand and palm trees thatare scattered around a postcard-perfect coastline. On the northwest coast, Jinek Bay is a popular snorkellingbeach while nearby Easo is a greatplace to arrange scuba diving trips. Explore the creeks of Plage de Peng and marvel at the blue lagoon of Plage Luengoni. Watersports enthusiasts have lots of opportunitiesfor kayaking, wakeboarding and windsurfing.
After your nautical adventures, discover the island'sinland attractions. Hike through forests to find caves that are home to huge stalactites,deep crevices and waterholes. Among them are Grotte d’Avio, Grotte duDiable and Grotte du Qanono. Takea guided tour of Mucaweng VanillaPlantation to see a slice of the island’s agricultural traditions. Climb tothe summit of Cliffs of Jonkin tomeet tribespeople and watch spectacular sunsets.
Be sure to sample some of Lifou’s delicious cuisine.Try lobster wrapped in banana leaves and a traditional bougna feast of fish,meat and root vegetables cooked beneath hot stones.
Reach Lifou by catching a ferry or flying from Nouméa,on New Caledonia’s main island. Get around via rental car, local buses andorganised tours. Many people visit Lifou on cruise daytrips, although you canlinger a little longer by staying in a range of campsites, beach huts and hotels.
