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Bora Bora Hotel

This grande dame of Tahiti has long entranced visit ors with its romantic ambience. The best known of the island’s hotels, it has even attracted a permanent clientele – several celebrities always return to their preferred bungalow.

Bordered by a spectacular multicoloured lagoon and tucked away in tropical greenery, the resort creates a charming sight as you approach by speedboat. The friendly staff greet you on the pier with cold towels and champagne, a welcoming and luxurious start to your stay.

The Polynesian-style thatched bungalows and spacious ‘farés’ (the Tahitian word for home) are extremely private, set either in tropical gardens, on one of the three white sand beaches, or on stilts out in the water. Over-Water Bungalows perch over a coral reef, with steps leading straight into the sea, while the superb Premium Beach Farés have uninterrupted ocean views. All rooms are elegantly furnished in neutral tones, with rattan and bamboo furniture and oak floors. Petals strewn on the four poster beds provide a tropical welcome on your first night.

While it’s tempting just to laze in a hammock, there are plenty of activities and excursions to be enjoyed. Go scuba diving, deep-sea fishing or see the marine life from a glass-bottomed boat and then explore the island on horseback or by Jeep or bicycle. The main village of Vaitape and other island sights lie within easy reach .

In the evenings, enjoy dinner overlooking the lagoon in one of the hotel’s restaurants. Wednesday nights bring a special beach barbecue and Polynesian dance show, while on Fridays, guests are entertained by the intriguingly named ‘Dance of the Mamas’.