Ovalau – Lomaiviti Islands

It may only be a 15-minute flight from Suva to Ovalau, but it’s often said that the two places seem worlds away. Drier, sunnier and more laid-back than Viti Levu, Ovalau also contains the 19th century capital of Fiji – Levuka.

It’s one of the archipelago’s most picturesque towns, with many visitors claiming it looks like a Wild West film set. It’s probably not too surprising as a brief look at the port town’s history – plenty of rowdiness and drunken tomfoolery – reveals a seedy and violent past.

There are also plenty of fine buildings, like the Old Town Hall and Ovalau Club – a result of Britain’s colonization of Fiji in 1874. As well as the historical element to Ovalau, the island also boasts another worthy place to visit – the small village of Lovoni.

It’s nestled within a staggering volcano crater and although the place doesn’t exactly cater for backpackers – there is no accommodation for us types – there are plenty of guided walks available from Levuka.