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Pacific island of New Caledonia
Photo: 09JAN2011_052.jpg: René Moutouh derivative work: MPF, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The Isle of Pines (French: Île des Pins; Kwênyii: Kunyié) is in New Caledonia.
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L'église de Vao
The large, white and red Catholic Church dominates the centre of Vao. Built in 1960 by the island's convicts, it is still used on a daily basis by the island's many Christians. Masses are held M W Th Sa 06:30, Tu F 18:30, and the main mass Su at 09:00.
Vestiges du bagne
The prison buildings of the former convict colony lie in ruins as an eerie reminder of the island's dark past. The main complex lies behind an imposing, brick wall, with the entrance accessible up a small set of steps from the main road. Inside, paths have been cut through the tall grass allowing visitors to explore the surprisingly-intact buildings. Old graffiti has been etched into some of the cells, with rusted iron bars still covering the windows. A smaller building sits adjacent in slightly worse condition, while 150 m up the nearby access road is a restored water tower.
Cimetière des Déportés
The final resting place of hundreds of convicts, many of them Paris Communards who died due to poor conditions or while mounting an unsuccessful ocean escape. The names of most who died are written on a memorial, although few of the graves are marked.
Baie de Saint-Maurice
A beach sits at the shore of this beautiful, turquoise bay. A statue of Jesus, surrounded by traditional totem poles etched with faces, denotes the arrival of Marist missionaries in the 19th century, while also remembering locals who died for France in the First World War.
Mairie de L'Île des Pins
The island's town hall is a humble building with traditional Kanak styling incorporated in its architecture. While not a tourist attraction as such, visitors are welcome to view the informative noticeboard, which includes cruise ship arrivals, recently passed laws and major upcoming events.
La Piscine Naturelle
Framed by pine trees, this is a postcard-perfect sheltered turquoise bay full of coral and an astonishing amount of fearless tropical fish. A 20-minute walk along the river from Le Meridien resort; if coming from the mainland, turn right immediately after the bridge and follow the occasional signposts. Expect to wade through knee-high water at high tide, and bring along everything you'll need since there are no facilities.
A small lunch bar just to the north of the main part of Vao, and the only real restaurant on the Isle of Pines not attached to a hotel. Offers chicken, beef and American-style sandwiches for about 700 CFP, along with soft drinks, milkshakes and coffee for 350 CFP. Also sells fries, mixed salads, main course meals and desserts.
Set on a private beach and a short walk away from the Natural Pool, Le Meridien is the most luxurious resort on the island and has prices to match. Last refurbished in 2015, there are both rooms in shared accommodation blocks and private villas, the best of which have staircases directly down to the lagoon. Pool, restaurant, bar, spa, small gym and complimentary sea sports gear like kayaks, paddle boats, etc.
Wèro Bakery
Épicerie de Wèro
Marché de Vao
A twice-weekly market specialising in local produce. Come earlier when it's more lively and the food is fresher.
As an island, there are only two ways into the Isle of Pines; by air and by sea.
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Île des Pins · Regional · ILP
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Articles and travel topics about Isle of Pines and New Caledonia.
Culture & historyThe Kanaks were the original inhabitants of New Caledonia, and the proud indigenous people of New Caledonia making about 44% of all New Caledonians.
Wikivoyage
Travel tipsDriving is often the best way to get around New Caledonia, especially where buses don't operate.
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Nature & adventureThe Australasian ecoregion consists of Australia, New Zealand, New Guinea, Melanesia, and the eastern parts of Indonesia. The outer islands of Oceania make up a different region.
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Culture & historyFortified locations, military constructions, or buildings, have been built from antiquity all the way to the present. At many archaeological sites and in some old towns they are the dominant structures.
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