Grottes de Pethoen, Natural cave in Médu, New Caledonia.
Grottes de Pethoen is a natural cave on Maré Island containing a large freshwater pool sheltered beneath numerous limestone stalactites that form delicate mineral curtains within the rocky chamber. The underground pool is surrounded by formations that developed gradually over millions of years through water and mineral deposits.
The cave formed through geological processes connected to the gradual uplift of ancient coral reefs that built the island structure. This process shaped Maré's landscape over millions of years and carved out the natural cavities visible today.
The Médu community holds a strong connection to this site, which functions as a natural swimming spot and social gathering place for local residents. People from the area visit regularly to cool off and spend time together.
The entrance is located about fifty meters from the main road and accessible via a forest path that starts before the first houses of Médu. Sturdy footwear is recommended since the path crosses vegetation and wet rocks near the entrance can become slippery.
Water droplets falling from the stalactites create shifting light patterns across the surface of the clear underground pool. This effect becomes particularly striking when sunlight from outside filters into the cave and illuminates the cascading drops.
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