Catriona Rowntree explores New Caledonia’s rugged interior on horseback
In the middle of the Pacific Ocean, New Caledonia is a French territory brimming with picture perfect beaches and incredible scenery. On a recent visit, Catriona Rowntree swapped her sarong for a saddle and explored New Caledonia's rugged interior on horseback.
Location:
La Foa, New Caledonia
Info and Cost:
Pocquereux Station see www.newcaledonia.travel/au for details
BBQ Lunch costs $41 per person, tours available on request
Camping costs $27 per tent, per night, dormitory costs $34pp per night & rooms start at $203 per night
Information correct at 12.09.26
Highlights:
The area around La Foa, on the south-west coast of Grande Terre is lush and rural. Here the farmers are known as cowboys or stockmen, and the cattle and sheep are bred to cope with the humid conditions. Currently in New Caledonia there’s a real push to grow more food locally and import less, and for more sustainable farming. Pocquereux Station is a working farm based on those ideals, with an eco-tourism operation combining livestock, accommodation and tourist activities.
They offer a range of guided tours to suit any adventurer whether it be hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding. Catriona opted for a day trip which included a delicious BBQ lunch. Local delicacy ‘cerb’, French for deer, was cooked bush-style on a hot grill, served with rice and Maggi sauce.
Fueled up and with a break from the tropical monsoon rain, they hit the trails on horseback. The beautiful 1300 hectare property has sheep and cattle. At Pocquereux Station, they breed dorpers, a fast growing sheep that's good for eating. They shed their short, light coats each summer, perfect for the Pacific island weather.
There are dorms, cabins and campsites on the farm if you are keen to hang around for a song by the campfire and experience more of the ranch life.
Despite the rain, Catriona had an absolute ball being with the beautiful horses and learning that there is so much more to New Caledonia than just beautiful beaches.
