Plaine des Lacs

The Plaine des Lacs is an expansive high plateau in southern New Caledonia, distinguished by its striking red soil and vast wetland systems. The vivid coloration of the earth is a result of the iron-rich laterite soil, which gives the entire region a unique, primeval appearance. This plateau functions as a vital natural drainage basin, capturing rainwater that feeds several permanent bodies of water, most notably the Lac en Huit, named for its figure-eight shape. The vegetation is highly specialized, consisting of the endemic 'maquis minier' scrubland that has adapted to the mineral-heavy substrate, including many plant species found nowhere else on Earth. While the area was historically utilized for forestry, it is now primarily valued for its environmental significance and biodiversity. Visitors to the plateau are met with a serene, open landscape that feels worlds away from the island's tropical coastlines, offering a glimpse into the complex geological history of the South Pacific.

Nearby cities

East Vallée des Colons

East Vallée des Colons is the extension of the historical district towards the hills of Nouméa.

Vallée des Colons

Vallée des Colons is a historical residential district in Nouméa with many traditional colonial-style houses.

Nouméa

Nouméa is the capital and largest city of New Caledonia, situated on a peninsula in the southwest of the main island.

Anse Vata

Anse Vata is the tourist heart of Nouméa, characterized by hotels, restaurants, and a long beach.

Vallée du Tir

Vallée du Tir is a popular and historical district of Nouméa, located near the harbor.

Lemon Bay

Baie des Citrons is a popular neighborhood in Nouméa featuring a sheltered bay ideal for swimming.

Dumbéa

Dumbéa is a rapidly growing suburb of Nouméa and part of the Great Nouméa metropolitan area.

La Conception

La Conception is a mission village in Mont-Dore with a significant religious history.

Boulari

Boulari is the administrative center of the Mont-Dore commune, situated on a picturesque bay.

Thio

Thio is considered the cradle of nickel mining in New Caledonia, located on the southeast coast.

Païta

Païta is located west of Nouméa and hosts the territory's primary international airport.

Païta Pioneer District

Païta is known for its history as the first major settlement outside Nouméa.

Magenta

Magenta is a district of Nouméa that hosts the territory's domestic airport.

Rivière-Salée

Rivière-Salée is a large residential district in northern Nouméa, named after the local 'salty river'.

Yahoué

Yahoué is a green residential district in Dumbéa, located at the foot of the mountains and known for its tranquility.

History & landmarks

Nouméa City Hall

The city hall of Nouméa is housed in a prominent building located at the edge of the Place des Cocotiers.

Madeleine Waterfalls

The Madeleine Waterfalls are wide but low falls located within a protected botanical reserve.

Nature

Lake en Huit

Lake en Huit is a distinctive lake in southern New Caledonia, named after its figure-eight shape.

Prony Bay Reserve

Known for its unique hydrothermal needles and as a seasonal gathering site for humpback whales during the southern winter.

More places

Ducos

Ducos is the primary industrial and commercial zone of Nouméa, located on its own peninsula.

Doniambo

Doniambo is the industrial heart of Nouméa, home to the massive SLN nickel smelter.

Massif du Grand Sud

The Massif of the Great South is a vast mountainous region in the south of Grande Terre, rich in minerals.

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Netcha Nature Reserve

A southern protected area known for its distinct red soil and unique macchia vegetation growing on ultramafic rocks.

Prony Penal Colony Ruins

The remains of this southern penal colony were used for timber extraction and housing prisoners during the 19th century.

Prony Village

Founded in 1867 as a logging camp and later part of the penal colony.