Travel
A information to Vanuatu’s finest snorkeling and scuba diving
Due for a diving vacation? Clear tropical waters, colourful coral reefs and a plethora of wrecks mix to make Vanuatu probably the greatest scuba diving locations within the South Pacific. However there are additionally loads of alternatives for snorkeling throughout the 80-plus island archipelago, additionally identified for its wild landscapes and wealthy kastom (conventional) tradition. From prime dive websites to the most effective locations to get licensed, right here’s a fast information to exploring Vanuatu’s underwater world.
The place are the most effective locations to dive in Vanuatu?
Diving in Vanuatu is predominantly resort-based, with the trade targeting three major islands: Efate, residence to the capital Port Vila and Vanuatu’s major worldwide airport; Espiritu Santo (simply Santo to locals), which welcomed direct flights from Brisbane, Australia, in 2024; and the extra distant and fewer developed island of Tanna, a 40-minute flight from Port Vila.
Most divers may have heard of the immense wreck of the SS President Coolidge in Santo, however there are many different wrecks, reefs and caverns to discover throughout Vanuatu’s diving hubs.
What’s so particular in regards to the SS President Coolidge?
Initially a luxurious ocean liner launched in 1931 that went into service as a troop service throughout WWII, ‘The Coolidge’ was by accident sunk in 1942 by US mines simply off Luganville, the most important city on Santo. Nearly 200m (656ft) lengthy and 25m (82ft) large, the coral-encrusted ship is now a preferred shore dive with round 50 websites to discover, relying in your certification stage.
Resting on its port aspect at a depth of between 21m (69ft) and 70m (230ft), The Coolidge is finest suited to superior divers, although open water divers can nonetheless take pleasure in a enjoyable dive alongside the starboard hull in the direction of the bow, the place some artifacts from deeper within the ship have been saved for leisure divers to see. Superior divers can ogle jeeps within the cavernous Cargo Maintain 2, whereas licensed technical divers can dive into the ship’s sunken swimming pool at 57m (187ft).
The place else can I dive in Santo?
One other well-liked dive close to Luganville is Million Greenback Level, a dumping floor for 1000’s of tons of US development gear throughout WWII. There are additionally a trio of aircraft wrecks off Santo that features a uncommon birdcage Corsair fighter, whereas Tutuba Level off the north coast is understood for its wealthy corals and swim-throughs. Simply south of Luganville, Aore Wall is adorned with sea followers, whereas Cindy’s Reef gives a relaxed drift dive teeming with anemone fish.
What’s the diving like in Efate?
Divers can discover greater than 20 dive websites off the coast of Efate. Extra well-liked dives near the capital metropolis of Port Vila embody the Twin Bommies, which magnetize an array of fish and critters; the Cathedral, a spectacular limestone chimney; and Ollie’s Lolly, a shallow reef close to Hideaway Island with a uncommon crimson anemone. Newbie-friendly wreck dives embody the Bonzer, a small tugboat with an enormous anemone backyard, whereas extra skilled divers can discover wrecks just like the Star of Russia, a 90m (255ft) three-masted ship inbuilt the identical Belfast shipyard because the Titanic.
Simply off Efate’s northwest coast, Tranquility Island is one other well-liked diving location. The highest draw right here is Owen’s Reef with its colourful delicate corals and followers, big mind corals and fields of staghorn corals.
What are the most effective dive websites in Tanna?
With only one dive heart on the island (Volcano Island Divers at White Grass Ocean Resort and Spa) Tanna’s 10 dive websites are blissfully uncrowded. The resort is just some minutes’ stroll from Tanna’s showpiece dive websites: Blue Gap One and Blue Gap Two. These websites aren’t traditional limestone sinkholes like Belize’s iconic Nice Blue Gap, however slightly azure openings within the shallow fringing reef which have created pure aquariums. Accessible from the shore, each websites function a community of interconnected grottos, caves, caverns and swim-throughs that hook up with the outer reef wall.
One other well-liked web site is the Blue Cave Aquarium, a powerful amphitheater that may solely be accessed underwater. Extra skilled divers can spot pelagics together with barracuda, yellowfin tuna and reef sharks at Kamitua Reef.
What kinds of marine life will I see on a typical dive?
Vanuatu’s reefs showcase quite a lot of exhausting and delicate corals that appeal to an array of tropical fish (batfish, damselfish, angelfish, triggerfish, parrotfish and anemonefish are simply a few of the locals) and critters together with nudibranchs, flatworms, big moray eels and crustaceans like anemone shrimps and lobsters. Turtles, rays and reef sharks are frequent guests, and fortunate divers might even encounter a dugong. Anemone gardens abound on shallow reefs.
Whereas most of Vanuatu’s reefs are in first rate situation, ongoing threats of climate-related coral bleaching, storm injury, crown-of-thorns starfish and overfishing can impression the standard of coral and variety of marine life you might even see.
The place is the most effective place to study to dive in Vanuatu?
Dive programs can be found on all three islands, however the calm and shallow bays of Efate are significantly ideal for learning. With its personal dive heart and a variety of dive websites on its doorstep, Hideaway Island Resort (only a four-minute ferry journey from mainland Efate) is a well-liked selection. In downtown Port Vila, Big Blue Vanuatu is a handy possibility for vacationers staying domestically.
On Santo, Pacific Dive additionally gives technical programs for divers all for studying learn how to dive deeper than the leisure restrict of 40m (131ft) – excellent for exploring the depths of The Coolidge.
What’s the finest season to dive in Vanuatu?
Diving is a year-round exercise in Vanuatu, although many divers decide to keep away from the height of the wet season from December to March. Whereas gentle rain doesn’t are likely to have an effect on underwater visibility in Vanuatu, greater storms could make diving unsafe.
The place are the most effective spots for snorkeling in Vanuatu?
A lot of Vanuatu’s dive websites will also be loved by snorkelers. A few of the finest snorkeling on Efate is on Tranquility Island’s home reef, identified for its turtles; and in Hideaway Bay’s marine park, the place you’ll be able to “ship” a water-resistant postcard from an underwater put up workplace situated in a shallow coral backyard. On Tanna, assured snorkelers can take a brief freedive into the Blue Cave Aquarium at low tide, whereas the principle swimming pools of Blue Gap 1 and Blue Gap 2 could be accessed by snorkelers from the shore.
Whereas the Coolidge is simply too deep for snorkeling, it’s doable to snorkel at Cindy’s Reef in addition to shallow areas of Million Greenback Level. For an opportunity to snorkel with a dugong (or 5), ebook a snorkeling tour to neighboring Aese Island with Santo-based snorkeling operator Best Snorkeling in Santo Vanuatu. Vanuatu’s distant Maskelyne Islands are one other well-liked spot to snorkel with dugongs.
Do I must convey my very own dive gear?
Most dive facilities provide rental gear, however as high quality can differ, some divers want to convey their very own masks and dive laptop (which aren’t at all times obtainable to lease). Rental snorkel gear supplied by lodges and snorkel tour operators could be low high quality, making it a good suggestion to convey your personal.
What are the diving security requirements like in Vanuatu?
Vanuatu dive operators are required to be licensed, however security requirements can differ between dive facilities and dive guides. With the one hyperbaric chamber in Vanuatu situated in Port Vila, and extra severe accidents and medical circumstances requiring medical evacuation to Australia, New Zealand or New Caledonia, diving insurance coverage with enough evacuation cowl is strongly really helpful.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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