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Northern Province On the northern tip of Grande Terre is the Northern Province of New Caledonia. It is the largest of the three provinces in New Caledonia and, with an area of 9578 square metres, covers more than 50 percent of the entire country. Its highest point is Mont-Panié (1628 metres—the highest peak in New Caledonia. Northern Province is mainly inhabited by Kanak and Caledonians of European origin. In a tribal setting, travellers can learn about the rich social customs of the Kanak people where the authority of chiefdoms is still highly respected and the rituals and traditions preserved. From Poya to the Belep Islands, a never-ending variety of scenery will unfold before your eyes–caves, mines, beaches, and islets. The pretty village of Poum nestles along a coastal strip between two bays a perfect location for picnickers who risk being overwhelmed with the choice of places to stop. The beaches are pristine and devoid of crowds—perfect for long walks to enjoy the peace and serenity of the coastline with only the birds for company. There is also an endless choice of nature trails to suit all levels of fitness, from 20-minute walks to hikes lasting several days. Keen hikers can climb the breathtaking Mont Panié. The dazzling landscape offers a wide range of adventures with horseriding, diving, fishing and walking among the wide range of activities 190 www.paradisesonline.com offered. The former mining village of Tiebaghi, with its main buildings rehabilitated, is now classified as part of the heritage of the archipelago and during a visit you will learn how, in the late 19th century, mineral wealth was the starting point for its development. A truly lush paradise, where majestic waterfalls plummet from New Caledonia's highest mountains, the East Coast of the Northern Province offers natural, unspoilt beauty. Home to the Kanaks, some of the idyllic little East Coast Melanesian villages provide tribal accommodation where you can discover the rich culture of the original Kanak lifestyle. The Northern Province offers a range of accommodations, including luxurious resorts to Melanesian cottages or farmstay properties. Visitors have the unique opportunity to experience traditional Kanak life for a day or two or head inland for horse trekking. The Northern Province enjoys a pleasant tropical climate with two main seasons. Summer runs from December to March, maximum temperatures range from 28-33°C. Winter lasts from June to September with temperatures averaging from 20-23°C. Be sure to include the Northern Province when you next visit New Caledonia. You will not be disappointed!