“In September 2016 I was lucky enough to join a week-long, Bruce Ashley-led Bike-It! tour of New Caledonia. I can’t recommend this highly enough to anyone looking for a memorable, challenging, rewarding and value-for-money two-wheeled holiday with a difference. I took my own touring bike; some fellow riders were equipped by Bruce with locally sourced MTBs.
New Cal is surprisingly close to Australia, and not as well known as it deserves to be due to (no doubt) its Francophone heritage.
As tour leader, Bruce brings great friendliness, attention to detail, a deep passion for the country, and well-established contacts with on-the-ground support resources and overnight hosts. This combination delivers a truly authentic and up-close experience of a complex, fascinating and vibrant society. Among many highlights of the 2016 tour for me were… the food (imagine an encounter between French gastronomy and fresh Pacific produce and flavours)… the welcome we received for our stay at the traditional village settlement of Tribu Katrikoin… the spectacular views rewarding our ride over Col de Roussettes…snorkelling off Ilot Tibarama… beach camping at Hiengheme… and (food reference again; we’re talking bike-riders, after all) oh! the glorious fresh seafood. If you have the chance – go!”
Matt Faber – Dulwich Hill, Sydney
““Thanks Bruce and Sebastien for an excellent (2017) New Cal trip. We had some great riding on quiet roads with beautiful coastal views, and plenty of local interest along the way. The accommodation was varied and always good, the food was outstanding, and the hire bikes were first class.
The off-bike activities were fun too, and the reef snorkelling (complete with sharks!) was sensational. It was a chance to practice my French as well. Our group of Aussies and Yanks is still in touch with each other. It was an all-round great experience, thanks guys.”
