Heart of Voh
New Caledonia
The Heart of Voh is a remarkable natural clearing in the mangrove forests of New Caledonia, covering approximately four hectares and uniquely shaped like a stylized heart when viewed from above. Located in the commune of Voh on the northwest coast of Grande Terre, it borders the Chasseloup Bay lagoon. This natural phenomenon gained international fame through the aerial photographs of Yann Arthus-Bertrand, especially after its appearance on the cover of his 1999 book 'The Earth from Above'. The heart-shaped clearing is part of the mangrove ecosystem and represents a dynamic vegetation formation influenced by environmental factors such as water stress in the semi-arid climate of the region. The site has become an iconic symbol of natural beauty and ecological significance in New Caledonia, attracting tourists and photographers alike. The Heart of Voh also reflects the broader cultural and historical context of the Voh commune, known for its coffee production and mining history. Its visual impact and environmental uniqueness make it a compelling destination for visitors interested in nature, photography, and ecological studies.
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Tip: The best time to visit the Heart of Voh is during clear weather to fully appreciate its aerial heart shape. Visitors are encouraged to explore aerial tours or viewpoints to capture the iconic image. While there are no specific ticketing requirements, checking for guided tours or local visitor information can enhance the experience. Discounts or advance reservations are not typically necessary, but planning ahead during peak tourist seasons is advisable.
Interesting facts
- •The Heart of Voh covers about four hectares within the mangrove forest.
- •It became internationally famous after Yann Arthus-Bertrand's aerial photo was used as the cover of his 1999 book 'The Earth from Above'.
- •The formation is a natural clearing in the mangrove, shaped like a stylized heart visible only from the air.
- •The site is located near the commune of Voh, which has a history of coffee production and mining.
- •The Heart of Voh has appeared in various media, including the magazine Geo in 2008.
History
The Heart of Voh is a natural vegetation formation within the mangrove bordering the lagoon of New Caledonia, recognized since at least the early 1990s.
The area around Voh has a colonial history dating back to the late 19th century, with French settlers establishing farming communities and coffee production.
The region also hosted indentured Vietnamese mineworkers from the late 1800s until the 1940s.
The Heart of Voh itself gained prominence in 1990 through Yann Arthus-Bertrand's aerial photography, which brought global attention to this unique natural feature.
Over time, the site has been partially vegetated and studied for its ecological dynamics in a semi-arid climate.
