Penitentiary Trail

Enjoy an authentic stay in a historic home nestled in the heart of the mining village of Prony, located in the Grand South region.Prony's Paradise, a unique guesthouse, is nestled in the heart of the historic mining village of Prony, at the foot of the remnants of the old mining supply store. Once home to mining staff, this historic building has been meticulously restored by Didier, the owner, to provide charming accommodations for visitors. In 2007, it was added to the supplementary inventory of historical monuments, highlighting its heritage significance. This wooden house features three bedrooms, accommodating up to ten people. It includes an "alcove" room with a double bed (140x200) and a bunk bed, as well as two private rooms with a double bed (160x200) and a single bed. Additionally, a spacious common area equipped with a kitchen, reading nook, and foosball table, along with a bathroom featuring a shower and toilet, complete the facilities. For outdoor enthusiasts, camping options are also available on-site. With a focus on responsible eco-tourism, Didier offers a range of outdoor activities, such as kayak and mountain bike rentals. The landscaped grounds provide direct access to the beach and hiking trails. Furthermore, Prony's Paradise has been honored with the 2021 Tourism Awards in the prestigious category of "Sustainable Tourism."

The vast Ouen Island is located off Prony Bay, south of the Woodin Channel, halfway between Nouméa and the Isle of Pines.Ouen Island is one of the islands in the New Caledonian archipelago and is part of the commune of Mont-Dore. Located in the Great Southern Lagoon Provincial Park, it is inhabited by the Ouara tribe in the north east and on its south-west tip. Its soil and landscapes are similar to those found in the Great South: it is mainly made up of maquis minier shrubland with a few degraded areas on higher ground.

This previously inhabited island off the tip of the Great South now boasts an exceptional biodiversity!Named after Admiral Casy in 1854, the island is a magnificent nature reserve spanning 40 hectares. First inhabited by the tribes of Ouen Island, it was then used to house employees of the Prony prison camp who came here to raise livestock and grow vegetables. Located near the Prony Needle and accessible by boat from Baie de la Somme, the island has an exceptional biodiversity: more than 80% of its plants are native species. An hour-long walk along a signposted trail is a great way to enjoy the variety of species this now unoccupied island has to offer. You can also go snorkelling to admire the coral and fish, or camp here for the night. Casy is a “sustainable resource management area” and as such, visitor activities are strictly regulated: - the removal of any animals, plants or minerals is strictly prohibited; - fires are only permitted if you bring your own wood and a portable barbecue; - no ground fires allowed; - no pets allowed; - all rubbish must be removed from the island.