Have you ever been someplace where the colors were so vivid that you were sure you’d been transported into some kind of alternative universe? Well the Ile de Pins (or Isle of Pines in English) is exactly that kind of place – a little spit of land sitting in the South Pacific with waters so turquoise that you’ll have to rub your eyes and slap your face just to believe what you are seeing.

For our Australian friends this little island is actually not too far away – Ile de Pins is part of the archipelago of New Caledonia – a French territory straight east off the coast of Queensland. Known for it’s luscious powder white sandy beaches, coconut trees, and a vast number of pine trees (henceforth the name) – you can’t help but be utterly seduced into a somnolent trance as you watch the trees gently sway in the fragrant island breezes. Ah…..

But I digress…even though this island is seemingly in the middle of nowhere – it has plenty of reasons for taking the time to get there. First and foremost is the water – just look at it! It’s crystal clear and the snorkeling and scuba diving is perfect! In fact the New Caledonia Barrier Reef is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site – it is that pristine and beautiful.

In all likelihood you’re going to have to fly to the main island of Grand Terre first, and if by chance you have to stay overnight, you might have to force yourself to do a little shopping Parisian style in the capital, Nouméa, and/or indulge in the delicious French cuisine or perhaps take a cooking class.

All international flights arrive in Tontouta which is 50km from Nouméa. From there you’ll go to the domestic airport, and board a flight to the Ile des Pins Airport. Flights can be booked with Air Caledonie and run twice daily. Oui oui!

There are actually a number of hotels on this tiny island but the one I would like to focus on today is Le Meridien Ile De Pins. The hotel features 49 rooms and suites, in private bungalows and/or a pavilion with beach and pool views. I don’t think there’s a bad room on the property. Since the hotel stretches out over a huge area – you never feel like you’re at some mega resort with thousands of people – so it’s perfect for an exclusive retreat.

If you are looking to de-stress this is surely the location. Keep in mind they have a wonderful spa and where they can massage you into total submission and utter bliss. Add in the wonderful La Pirogue Restaurant with its fresh fish and inspired cuisine – and you will NEVER want to leave the island.

After dinner you can hang out at their extremely creative bar, Longitude 167 – and have their signature concoction made with Niaouli, a locally produced liquor or enjoy a delicious French espresso. I don’t know about you, but I love my morning coffee so much that I actually travel with a pot that boils water, my cone, filters and coffee. So I LOVE when I’m guaranteed a serious cup of Illy Joe and I don’t have to pack my paraphernalia!

So you might be thinking what could you do with a group of people if you chose to have your retreat here? There are plenty of relaxing activities like trying a traditional outrigger canoe and cruising through the colorful lagoons of Upi Bay, or even snorkeling, diving, or simply enjoying the stunning marine life while taking a leisurely swim.

Here’s a list of wonderful nature activities you can all indulge in:

Piscine Naturelle: This stunning natural salt-water pool is only minutes from Le Méridien Ile des Pins and offers second-to-none snorkelling with an abundance of tropical fish in the warm, crystal clear waters.

Kanumera Bay: A day filled with swimming, snorkelling and strolls on the endless white sand. Kanumera beach is only 15 minutes driving distance from the resort. Learn about the history of the Sacred Rock and meet the locals who would be delighted to introduce you to their unparalleled lifestyle.

Grotte de la Reine Hortense: Grotte de la Reine Hortense are New Caledonia’s most-visited caves. Walk through the tropical gardens to reach the dramatic caves and learn about Queen Hortense and her refuge during intertribal conflict in 1855.

Oro Bay: Let Oro Bay take your breath away as your take in the scenic views. Dive in and swim through the natural aquarium and experience the vibrancy of the colors of the bay. A spectacular place to snorkel and a must visit.

Upi Bay: One of the most spectacular hidden gem of Ile des Pins, approximately 30 minute hike from Oro Bay Bay. Find magnificent views of the shimmering turquoise water and the white sandy beach.

Ascent of Peak N’Ga: The peak offers a panoramic view of the whole island. The ascent of the peak is accessible to everyone. After the walk, enjoy a swim in Kuto Bay and a nice picnic on the beach!

Excursion to Nokhanui & Brush Island: Enjoy a relaxing day on the atoll of Nokanhui, free snorkeling with turtles and then lunch on Nuu Ana atoll.

So no matter where you are in the world – if you’re thinking about a total getaway trip, Iles de Pins might just be the perfect place for your escape! Let me know what you think – and if any of our Australian and New Zealand family have anything to share about the location – please post below or in our community Facebook group!

To your wanderlust life, Sheri

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Dr Sheri Rosenthal is known as one of the most sought after retreat strategists for coaches, speakers, and authors — and is the owner of Journeys of the Spirit Travel®, a boutique agency specializing in the planning and management of group travel.

Through her Wanderlust Entrepreneur Community and her signature course, The Retreat Blueprint Program, she has taught thousands of facilitators how to design exceptional retreats that allow them stand out in their niche. She is famous for helping clients plan, fill, and profit from transformational retreats that change lives in a huge way while adding serious income to their bottom line!