Norfolk Island travel tips and stories. Vacations ideas, cruises, spa and resorts

A tiny jewel set in the azure seas of the South Pacific, Norfolk Island is just 8 km long and 1,600 km northeast of Sydney. It is the biggest of a cluster of three islands on the Norfolk Ridge, fingered by coral reefs and crowned by pristine rainforest and some of the world’s tallest tree ferns. On October 1774 James Cook first landed on this diminutive island and named in honour of the then Duchess of Norfolk. Convict starred to arrive 14 years later and over time it gained quite a reputation, becoming known as ‘hell in the Pacific‘. Then in 1856, descendants of the Bounty mutineers with their Tahitian wives and children sailed for five weeks form Pitcairn Island to settle on Norfolk Island. Photo by: thinboyfatter

The new settlers brought with them a distinct culture and language and many held mutineers’ names such as Adams, Buffett, Christian and McCoy. From that day, Norfolk Island began its steady climb out of hell and into heaven. Traditional culture remains deep-rooted – with dancing, singing, and a unique cuisine. Banana dumplings, fried fish and Hihi pie, concocted with periwinkles, can be sampled at one of the fie restaurants throw across the island. Photo by: The lovebird

The blue waters around Norfolk Island are teeming with fish, and there are countless fishing charters and scuba diving trips out to the reef to explore this kaleidoscope underwater world. In the sheltered waters of Emily Bay, you can also indulge in some lazy swimming and snorkeling, and endless relaxation. Photo by: *omnia*

Norfolk Island is favoured by well-heeled Australians and New Zealanders, and a few millionaires have migrated to this tax-free haven. There are over 70 low-tax shops and many eager customers. Yet the island seems to balance the old and the new perfectly – honouring its Pitcairn people, its rich environment and its visitors. Photo by: thinboyfatter

When to go: Idyllic in December-January, with temperature ranging from 12 degrees at night to 19-21 degrees in the day. Population: 1,800 (2007).