Tourist Attractions & Monuments New Caledonia

Built in 1984, the bridge that separates Lékine from Mouli Island is not to be missed. The view of the cliffs and the blue sea of the lagoon is simply grandiose. Every hour, the water seems to change color! You can see the island of Fayawa and a great diversity of aquatic fauna: schools of fish, turtles, rays, even sharks, if you are lucky. Continuing south, the 8 km long peninsula offers an exceptional white beach on its western side and beautiful coral cliffs on its eastern coast.

Located in the communes of Sarraméa, Farino and Moindou, the Grandes Fougères Park was inaugurated in 2008 to protect an exceptional natural environment. A network of hiking trails has been developed to allow visitors to survey 4,500 hectares of tropical rainforest. The flora and species present are mostly endemic (cagou, notou, crested parakeet...). Mountain bikers are welcome, but there is no bike rental company on site. Motorized vehicles and dogs are not allowed.

This is THE visit not to be missed during your stay in New Caledonia. A masterpiece of the architect Renzo Piano, the Tjibaou Cultural Center is the result of the Agency for the Development of Kanak Culture (ACDK) founded following the Matignon Agreement. Inaugurated in 1998, this center aims to promote Melanesian culture.
Built on the very spot where the Melanesia 2000 festival was held in 1975 by Jean-Marie Tjibaou (the independence leader assassinated in 1989, in whose honor a statue erected on the heights of a hill overlooks the site), it celebrates France's recognition of the traditions and history of the Kanak people.
It was a long and arduous task for Renzo Piano, an internationally renowned architect (Osaka-Kansai airport, Georges Pompidou center), who undertook this ambitious project. It is a contemporary interpretation of the island's architectural heritage where the combination of steel and wood bridges modern and traditional styles.
The building, organized around a central alley flanked by columnar pines, links the ten large stylized huts that reflect the ten customary areas of New Caledonia.
The latter house numerous exhibition rooms evoking the culture, history and customs of the Kanak civilization, one of which is dedicated to the life of Jean-Marie Tjibaou.
The center also hosts various artistic events, temporary exhibitions, festivals, conferences and screenings. The Bérétara room honors contemporary Kanak and Oceanian art. The two media libraries (Ngan Vhalik for multimedia and Mwà Véé for books) have many interesting works on Melanesian and Oceanian cultures as well as many books on the theme of Kanak identity.
Outside, the Kanak Way, an initiatory plant walk that retraces in five stages (the origin of beings, the nourishing earth, the land of the ancestors, the land of the spirits and rebirth) the legend of the creation of the first man, the founding hero Téâ Kanaké, allows one to grasp the strength of the link with nature in Kanak society and the very great importance it gives to plants.
In this landscaped park, one discovers the symbolic vegetation of Melanesia, as well as the three traditional huts of the Mwakaa customary area, one for each of the New Caledonian provinces (North, South and the Loyalty Islands).
A dance show representing the creation myth is held every Tuesday at 2:30 pm in the gardens.

A true New Caledonian icon in the same way as the cagou or the striped tricot, the elegant ageless hen sits proudly in the bay of Hienghène, between the coast and the open sea. It takes on different faces depending on the point of view, which explains the great diversity of possible photos. The most beautiful spot is at the belvedere, where you can access the southern entrance of the village. A small sign announces the site and there is room to park and picnic. The panorama is absolutely magnificent and extends from the black rocks of Linderalique to the famous incubator and the sphinx that faces it. In the open sea, the sea and the sky seem to be one, so that the horizon beyond the bay is interrupted only by the islets and the high peaks of the Mount Panie massif. According to local beliefs, the chicken symbolizes the founding element of life. Many legends surround these mythical places with a halo of mystery. According to one of them, the settlement of the territory would have even started here. If you have the opportunity to go for a canoe ride, it seems that you can even recognize the towers of Notre-Dame from certain angles! To better appreciate the Sphinx, you will have to cross the village and come out of it by the north to admire it from its point of view.

This is a must-see site for anyone visiting (or re-visiting) the region and even New Caledonia in general. The beauty of the place and the legends surrounding it are bewitching.

In the blue-roofed halls overlooking the marina of Port Moselle, the archipelago's largest marina, flowers, fresh fruit and vegetables, fish, meat (deer sausage!), pastries and souvenirs are displayed. While tourists and locals mingle every day, the market is a big hit on weekends! You can have breakfast at the kiosk inside the halls. You can go there from 6am to have your coffee or to find a snack to take away for lunch. Be careful, Caledonians are early risers and from 11am the stalls are empty.

The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption in Vao, built in 1860, is a colorful building very representative of the Caledonian island style. Inside, the beautiful ceiling and the multicolored stained glass windows should be noted. The tabernacle and the pulpits are made of carved wood. Behind the building, take the path that leads to a small chapel located a little higher up, where a statue of the Virgin is leaning over the world. The Grande Chefferie is also nearby. Inaugurated in 2006, it is in fact a building from the 1850s that has been restored.

This museum is installed in an old colonial building. It traces the world of mining and the history of the region. The Le Nickel company (SLN), founded in 1880, was at the origin of development in Thio. It set up the infrastructure necessary for the exploitation of the site. The mines, the ore processing plant and the shipping wharf required a large workforce, half of which was recruited from Japan. A very interesting museum directly related to the modern exploitation that you can appreciate by visiting the mine.

Do not hesitate to contact the tourist office to prepare your stay in Hienghène and more particularly in the tribe. The tourist office will give you the names of the hosts able to welcome you (it is better to book 24 hours in advance). It is located in the center of the village, the reception is pleasant and informed. Behind the desk, the portrait of Jean-Marie Tjibaou is displayed. Very practical at the beginning of any stay, the team of the tourist office of Hienghène will be delighted to guide you in your adventure.

The Turtle Hole is not easy to find, the entrance to the trail is marked by an iron bar topped by a balloon. Ask the locals to guide you if you have trouble. It is of course possible to swim, but be careful, it is difficult to go up the wall. If the children of the tribe are not there and there is nobody in the water, you can also see turtles coming to the surface to breathe, with a little patience. A small path goes around and offers beautiful views. We love it.

Peng beach is perceived by some as the cutest beach on the island. Recently opened to the public, like everywhere else, be careful not to deface anything. It is a small corner of paradise that is particularly appreciated in the morning, when you can enjoy it alone in the world. This beach is also a famous (because ideal) place to admire the sunset. White sand, clear water, an enchanting setting that amazes as soon as you put your feet in the sand. On the right side of the beach, small caves are to be done in snorkeling.

It was a convict who drew the plans for this cathedral, built in 1888 on the heights. If you look up at the façade, you will see a two-meter statue of Notre-Dame-des-Flots, donated by the sailors of the Caledonian Merchant Navy. The two 25-meter towers are equipped with two-meter diameter clocks and were not yet completed at the time of its consecration in June 1894. Once inside, it is necessary to examine the large fonts inserted in the narthex. Don't miss the nickel leaf chandelier on the ceiling.

The Association for the Safeguarding of the Mining and Historical Heritage of North Caledonia (composed of former miners) has restored the site, its dispensary, the school, the executive quarters, the village hall, the chapel and the bakery. Some old rolling stock is still there... It is now possible to come and soak up the history of the site by contacting the Point I of Koumac to organize a visit. Bring a bottle of water, a hat and sunscreen.

This museum invites visitors to discover the maritime history of New Caledonia. The discovery is articulated around four themes: the sails of trade, maritime migrations, maritime links and the marking of the country and the voyage of La Pérouse during the Age of Enlightenment. Temporary exhibitions allow visitors to learn more about various themes related to the sea throughout the year.

It is in the heart of a beautiful forest that the caves of Koumac are hidden, in the middle of bancouliers, gyrocarpus and banians. Carved by underground rivers, they were formed in karstic limestone dating from the Eocene (53 to 34 million years ago). Known long before the arrival of the missionaries, they were used as burial places by the local tribes. Between 1970 and 1990, exploration and topographic surveys of the caves were carried out. The Small Cave of the Winds can be explored in 15-20 minutes, while it will take 1 hour for the Big Cave, accessible only on its first 380 meters. Do not go at night or in the rain; remember to bring good closed shoes, a lamp, a drink, and to sign the booklet at the entrance. Inside, the cave is absolutely sublime and will give you the opportunity to see many types of rocks, natural ceilings, bats (yes) and the roots of banyan trees mixed from the surface. There is some graffiti here and there by unscrupulous vandals.

The camping is authorized and free on the equipped area. To access the site, which is 8 km from the center of Koumac, turn right at the church traffic circle when coming from the south, then follow the right again at the crow's feet, before turning left at the sign. after 400 m, follow the right and cross the fortified bridge. Turn right after 900 m. You are only 1 km from the caves. Take the right track at the end of the road.

In the Xârâcùù language, they are called xwâkwé nè, "the sources of fire". For centuries, Kanak warriors dipped their weapons there before going to war. A legend transmitted by the Melanesian oral tradition explains the origins of this place. A long time ago, the valley of La Crouen was sacred. Only a family guarding the site lived there, along with a god named Wankwéné, who punished the unwary who committed the sacrilege of coming here. One night, the god stirred in his sleep and shook the mountain. The river, which was flowing along the western slope, drifted towards the eastern slope. The tribes then wanted to appropriate the source. A young man from the west went in search of it and came across a young girl from the east who had gone astray. They fell in love with each other and fled into the forest. Coming from opposing families, they could not return together and ended up in the valley of the Crouen, provoking the wrath of Wankwene. In anger, the god urinated on them, turning them into turtles and dogfish. The legend says that at the place where the urine ricocheted, two hot springs sprang up... But don't let that put you off, because the spot is very nice. The sulphurous and alkaline springs flow 250 m³ per day at a temperature between 40 and 44 °C. They are effective against asthma, bronchial affections and rheumatism, but don't be too sensitive to the smell of sulfur.

Marianna and Bossie Ijezie offer several nature tours of half a day, one day, two days or even more. The two-day hike in Zimetrötr country is particularly unforgettable. On the first day (5 hours), hikers progress through the undergrowth to the traditional camp in the Zimetrötr coconut grove. After lunch, swimming, and even exploring the sea bed with fins, mask and snorkel, everyone boards the boat to reach the bivouac set up on the beach of Ngöni. A unique experience in Lifou.

A ten-minute drive from the center stretches the pretty beach of Moara, with its white sand at the edge of the coconut trees. The bay of Port Bouquet is also worth a visit, a few kilometers away. It overlooks the sea magnificently and faces the islets Némou and Toupéti, which offer superb underwater scenery for diving. In the direction of the hourly road leading to Canala, the beach of Ouroué and its black sand also reveals a surreal landscape. The region of Thio is a beautiful area, mountains and sea offer thrills.

In the direction of Poum, at the exit of Koumac, you will have to take the road to Babouillat and drive for about twenty kilometers to reach this beautiful forest park. Picnics and camping are possible here near the Néhoué River. Children's games, walking and swimming are also available. Please note that the collection of wood and plants is forbidden. A very nice walk during which you can admire the numerous birds.

This mine was exploited at the time by convicts, before falling into ruin. It all began in 1884, when Johnny Higginson bought the concession. The open-pit mining of copper lasted one year, until the engineer Louis Pelatan opened the way to a new type of extraction: the steam core drilling system, which made it possible to dig down to 199 m below sea level. Nine galleries were then built in the subsoil, but the fall in prices led to successive takeovers, and then to the final closure of the site in 1931.

Located in the Nakety valley, 1.5 km south of Canala, on the heights of Gelima, it is necessary to climb for 4 km through banana and coconut plantations to reach the falls. At the arrival, a path on the left leads to the top of the falls. Be careful during your ascent, the path can be tricky. You will find there one of the most beautiful waterfalls of the territory, which will make you enjoy a panoramic view on the magnificent surroundings of Canala. Remember to ask for permission from the tribes of Gelima or Mia. Swimming is possible on site.

This mine was exploited until the Second World War by the Japanese and closed after Pearl Harbor. The Japanese were expelled and some interned. The remains are impressive. All that remains here are concrete columns that carried evacuation hoses to the beach, as well as rusted conveyor belts that end up on the shore. Up there, on the mountain, more than 1,500 people once worked to extract the iron.

12.5 km north of Xépénéhé, these high cliffs are absolutely admirable. 40 meters high, they plunge into the clear and fishy waters of the north of the island. When arriving at Jokin, you should be careful to respect the chieftaincy and to go around the courtyard and its stone barrier to take the path that leads to the sea, behind the temple. Once there, a columnar pine tree marks the entrance to a staircase of 210 steps that descends to the foot of the colossi. At sunset, the site borders on perfection: incredible colors and guaranteed emotions.

Lucien Bernheim, a mining owner, donated money to the colonial administration in 1901 for the construction of a library. Built on the colonial model of the time, in the image of the pavilions of the Universal Exhibition in Paris in 1900, the building is one of the most eloquent architectural testimonies of Nouméa. Within its walls are grouped 700,000 volumes, a large part of which deals with New Caledonia and the Pacific. Researchers also have at their disposal the collection of all the public newspapers of the territory.

The Madeleine reserve is an exceptional site for the diversity and richness of its flora. Botanists will find here unique species: dwarf araucarias, carnivorous plants, wild orchids... 168 species of plants (most of them endemic) have been listed in the area. This red earth contains very few nutrients and only the vegetation of the mining maquis can resist these extreme conditions, which explains the unusual rate of endemism. The trail leads for 2 km to the falls. Easy access.

Count 2h30 of walk for the ascent of the mount Kathépaïk, from where we can see the Heart by good weather. (It is the sunshine that brings out the heart). Once at the top, find your bearings in relation to the two rivers, with the point of the Heart pointing towards you. At the risk of being disappointed, do not imagine that you will be able to find what you see on Yann Arthus-Bertrand's postcards; unless you fly over the site, it is quite difficult to distinguish. Nevertheless, if the sun is shining, the panorama is grandiose and stretches between red laterite earth, mountains, mangrove and ocean. To the north, the Téméla tribe; in front of you, the Duroc pass, to the east, the Koniambo massif and, to the south, the Oundjo tribe. Not to mention the recently built huge factory in the North.
But you have a good view on the heart, without necessarily reaching the top. Count in that case, about one hour of walk. Be careful, it goes up!

A guided tour in 4x4 ? Get in touch with Jacques Loquet: ✆ +687 42 38 78 or ✆ +687 75 44 67.

A flight over the Heart by microlight? The flight departs from the Koné airfield. Count 17,000 CFP for 45 min. Information from Hibis Air at ✆+687 47 22 61.

Parking: the starting point of the hike is at the level of a housing estate, a little outside the center. Arriving at the level of the store "the Katepai", take the road that runs alongside the store, then at the crossroads, take the left. Park in the available spaces or along a sidewalk.

Also called "Trou Feillet" because Governor Feillet used to visit it regularly during the colonial era, this natural pool is very easy to access and allows for a pleasant swim or serves as an ideal picnic area. The Cuve de Sarraméa is a magnificent place to discover in the midst of a lush nature and left master of the place. Water holes and waterfalls are scattered along the walking paths. On some of the waterfalls, you can even make a natural slide! An aquatic hike to do.

It is a recommended stop on your arrival on the Pebble! In this beautiful colonial house, you will discover the history of New Caledonia, its mixed populations, the major political decisions from 1853 to 1939, as well as the participation of Kanak infantrymen and Caledonian soldiers in the First World War and the historical turning points that the territory experienced, such as the nickel boom between 1966 and 1971. Once the visit is over, you can take a break in the museum gardens, located behind the veranda.

Opened in 1971, the Museum of New Caledonia is entirely devoted to Oceanian and Melanesian traditions. The first floor is dedicated to the Kanaks and one can discover sculptures of the Grande Case. Puzzles made of gaïac wood, totems and masks are also on display. The mezzanine is generally turned towards the South Pacific and covers, for example, Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, etc.

Numerous more or less accessible caves follow one another along the road towards the north. Their exploration requires an adequate equipment. The luxuriant vegetation around is magnificent, as well as the entrance of the site! It is here that Queen Hortense would have found refuge between 1855 and 1856, when the tribes were fighting for the succession. At the entrance, we can see a temple dedicated to her memory. You have to cross a small river by a slippery bridge and be careful not to fall. At the bottom, a slab would have served as a bed for the one who came to hide there. Kanedjio Vendegou was born around 1848 on the Isle of Pines. Daughter of the great chief, Kaoua Vendegou, although a woman, was able to speak out and help her father who accepted the protection of France in 1853. Kanedjio is baptized and becomes Hortense. An excellent student, she became the first Melanesian woman to read and write French. Thanks to an agreement with the administration, she obtained the protection of land for the Kuniés. Without any descendants, she joined the sisters after the death of her husband in 1872 and died in 1900. She is buried in Vao. Her portrait is still visible in many houses and cottages on the island. Her memory is still very much alive.

At 20 minutes by scooter from Kuto, the place is not difficult to find. Just go in the direction of Vao and follow the direction of Oro Bay. 9 kilometers straight ahead, you are there! Don't forget your flashlight!

Leaving Vao to the north, you will have to take the first right to discover them, all carved wood, with their expressions as fascinating as amusing. This site owes its fame to the magnificent Kanak woods (totems) erected as a palisade around the monument. This monument commemorates the arrival on the island of Fathers Goujon and Chatelut and thus the first Catholic service given on August 12, 1848 on the island. James Cook would have passed by there in his time and tourists and locals never tire of it. It is one of the most picturesque places in the area.

This beach is a very popular spot for surfers thanks to the waves of the Popinée pass. But the real star of the place is of course the famous "Bonhomme", a massive rock that stands out from the cliff. To best appreciate the surroundings, two trails are recommended: the Three Bays Trail, which links the Roche Percée to the Bay of Turtles and the Bay of Lovers with superb views over 4 km from the Roche parking lot, and the Cycad Forest Trail, which starts in the middle of the beach and crosses a dry forest over 2 km.

This beautiful beach takes its name from the turtles that regularly come here to lay their eggs - but beware, swimming is forbidden because of the strong currents. However, you should not miss it, as its location is exceptional. Facing the pass and the lagoon, the magnificent columnar pines stand next to the famous Bonhomme de Bourail. From the Roche Percée, the three bays path to the Baie des Tortues, passing by the Baie des Amoureux and the belvedere, is one of the most beautiful pedestrian itineraries of the West Coast.

Don't hesitate to push open the heavy doors of the large church of St. Joseph to admire the interior. Dating from 1912, it has a beautiful vaulted wooden ceiling, a kohu pulpit and a black kaori carved Christ draped with a manou. On the edge of the pretty bay of the same name stands the monument to the centenary of the Catholic mission that arrived in 1857. The chieftaincy is next door. A visit certainly attractive for the believers, but one admires just as much the architecture of this small church so atypical. Sale of artisanal products on the spot.

Classified as a historical monument, this beautiful chapel dates from 1898. The sunsets on the bay of Santal are magnificent and the procession of Our Lady of Lourdes takes place there every year on December 8. It was in Easo that the whalers butchered their catch between 1860 and 1870 and burned the fat to extract the oil.In front of the building, a large banyan tree plunges its roots into the heart of a cave. Ask politely for permission to enter.

The island had five villages of deportees, most of whom never returned to France. 230 graves were built to accommodate the remains of victims of scurvy and deserters who drowned in the lagoon. No need to look for the graves, only a white stele was built by the convicts in homage to their companions. The cemetery of the administrators, where the former employees of the prison are buried in tombs carved in the coral, is just next door. Ask for permission before crossing.

This circular pool of 30 m in diameter is the narrowest part of the isthmus north of Wadrilla. Here, salt and fresh waters do not mix and their deep blue color is hypnotic. A team of Captain Cousteau explored it, but never reached the bottom. Many multicolored fish stay in this natural aquarium. If you continue along the trail, you will find a path a few meters further that leads you to a second water hole. Also located nearby, the turtle hole.

19 km south of Houaïlou, towards Canala. Once you reach the hill in the mining center and after passing two large power poles, turn left to a platform overlooking the ocean. At the top of a knoll, on the left, three power poles appear in a row. You are in the heart of a petroglyph site. The rocks are decorated with sun, men and crosses. The Kanaks deposit coins there as a sign of respect.

Reaching Thio from Canala is almost an adventure. The road, then the track, is so narrow and winding that timetables have been set up for 13 km. From Nakety to Thio, you pass at even hours and, in the other direction, at odd hours. Be careful, the route is not paved everywhere, and some people try to force their way through. Be sure to check the condition of the road before you go, and make sure that the weather is good and that your vehicle is able to drive on the track. At night, it is open on both sides.

Located to the east of the city, beyond the Magenta district, and outside the city center, the Ouémo peninsula is home to beautiful houses with flowery gardens overlooking the sea. The place is surrounded by the mangrove visible on both sides of the peninsula. The hotel Le Stanley is located at the point of Longs Cous. From there, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Sainte-Marie islet, Magenta Bay, the Tjibaou Cultural Center and the surrounding mountains facing the city...

Known as the "Tina Loops", this bike path is open to the public every day of the week from 6am to 6pm. To reach the starting point, follow the direction of the Tina Golf Course to Lasalle Point. The trail passes through beautiful landscapes that are recognized for their ecological value and are a classified and protected natural site. Count on 30 to 45 minutes to cover this 7.5 km paved loop. You will walk along the seashore and enjoy beautiful views of the lagoon. The circuit also crosses the mangrove and the dry forest.

The military had established their vegetable garden here, whose contours they delimited with coconut trees, replaced today by flamboyant trees. The statue (the beautiful Celeste) of the 8-meter fountain designed in 1893 by the sculptor Mahoux was inspired by a woman from Nouméa. The bandstand, located nearby and built by the convicts in 1878, sometimes hosts concerts. It is pleasant to sit on the steps of the small amphitheater. During the day, the square is always crowded with people on the terraces, benches and lawns.

This is a great idea for a walk that is accessible to all. Just south of the city center, from its marina of Port Moselle and its market, you can then climb the hill of Artillery before going down to the bay of the Orphanage, which owes its name to a reception center created by Brother Antoni. It is surmounted by a Lorraine cross, on Mount Coffyn, in memory of the rallying of New Caledonia to Free France in June 1940. At the level of Port Plaisance, follow the seaside towards the bay of the Fishermen and the nautical circle.

If you leave the Ouémo peninsula on your right and the Magenta bay a little further north. At the junction, not far from the former University of the Pacific and the airfield, you will be able to admire the small strip of fine sand bordered by superb columnar pines. There are tables and benches for picnics. A playground is also available for children. It is the ideal place to start windsurfing from the beach when you are a beginner. Beware of swimmers and webbed hikers though!

This trail starts from the village of Nanal passing by the cape Taetawanod. It is a long trail but of medium difficulty. Traced by the ancients, it connects all the beaches and coconut groves of the west coast. The transparent sea licks the golden sands. It then reaches the spectacular Taetawanod Cape, then Nanal, on the south coast. It is also the access to several caves or viewpoints hidden in the vegetation. An acrobatic passage spices up the exit of the Malou cave.

It takes about 7 km round trip (about 3 hours) of an easy and pleasant level. The itinerary alternates between sand and coral rocks and is not very well indicated, but remains accessible to all. We discover the beaches of the hotel, Shini and Pédé, which is the most beautiful of all. The latter is also accessible by road: coming from Tadine, park before Cape Wabao and cross the white barrier freely. It is an ideal place for snorkeling, with superb coral reefs.

The trail follows the left bank of the creek into the ever-growing wilderness to reach the river, its small waterfalls and waterholes. The rainforest, the many birds and the low elevation trail make this a popular walk for families. At the end, you can take a dip in shallow pools. It takes about forty minutes to walk the trail (although we recommend taking your time to admire the scenery) before arriving at the waterfall from the parking lot. A very relaxing and quiet place.

A trip by Melanesian canoe in Upi Bay is a must to see the wonderful site and its numerous coral "potatoes" in the shape of a giant mushroom. Dolphins and turtles are often seen there. The departure is early in the morning to the bay of St. Joseph, where you embark before sailing 1h30 in a dream setting (without engine when the wind allows it). Then, you can walk 30 to 45 min under the shade of the trees until the natural swimming pool of Oro, where we spend the rest of the day before the return shuttle. Idyllic.

At the mouth of the Blue River, three hot springs offer 43 degrees water! Only one of the sources is on earth and suitable for swimming.

A few wild beaches will allow you to cool off after a day of walking or driving, including the beach of Tangadiou and the beach of the Péninsule peninsula accessible by overland roads. Very poorly attended, you will be able to observe the fishermen at dusk. Picnic areas at the seaside are also located on the tip of Pandop. 

The great curiosity of Prony Bay is of course the needle, which has nothing to do with a coral formation, but which results from a freshwater resurgence. This gigantic chimney takes root at a depth of 38 meters and rises 2 meters below the surface of the water. Imagine a mineral cathedral coming from the depths. Calcification is the result of the action between fresh water, coming from lakes and rivers, and salt water from the lagoon. The fresh water infiltrates, heats up and rises... Needles rise from an arm of the cathedral, forming several bell towers at the top, below which a hole, from which fresh water gushes out, has been dug. This water, mixing with salt water, gives the impression of a turbid mixture with two compounds of different density. The Aiguille was officially discovered in 1873 when the cargo ship La Somme, passing through Prony to load wood for the prison, ran aground there. The ship was stranded there for about 50 hours, and it was an aviso that relieved her of her heavy cargo, thus putting an end to her stranding.

Today,it is a diving spot: the heat of the cavity is not to the displeasure of the fishes that come here in great numbers. The needle never stops growing, making its own limestone gangue. Corals and fish are present. A real kingdom for bivalves, the site is also a spawning ground for loaches in November. You might as well say that it is a wonder for all those who can come and dive here...