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Just a 50 minute flight to the north of Rarotonga, the idyllic paradise of Aitutaki boasts a special sense of magic with its crystal clear lagoon waters and soft white sun-bleached shores. 15 small islets and a main volcanic island encircled almost completely by a barrier reef make up one of the largest and most beautiful lagoons in the world. Aitutaki is without a doubt one of the South Pacific’s best kept secrets! The epitome of barefoot luxury, this boutique all-beachfront resort is unquestionably one of the finest in the Cook Islands – its string of recent awards include ‘World’s Leading Boutique Island Resort’ at the 2008 World Travel Awards. A total of just 27 elegant bungalows, suites and villas nestle on half a kilometre of pristine white beachfront, just steps from the water’s edge. The hotel effortlessly embraces the gracious days of a bygone era with its stylish colonial furnishings and traditional Polynesian architecture. Each of the bungalows, suites and villas are beautifully appointed with an eclectic blend of timber furnishings, polished wooden floors, marble bathrooms, expansive cool verandahs with day beds, stunning views and direct beachfront access. The 18 bungalows are 36 square metres in size, but those looking for even more space may prefer one of the suites which have a unique indoor glass shower, a refreshing outdoor shower and an even more private location. The three split-level villas are more spacious again (with a separate bedroom, lounge and bathroom), and are perched on the hillside with a private double sundeck and a staircase meandering down to the beach. The hotel’s open-sided Rapae Bay Restaurant offers the very best of South Pacific cuisine with breathtaking views of the sparkling swimming pool, beach and ocean. Sumptuous breakfasts are included in your stay – and dinner always includes fresh local seafood and Pacific Rim flavours. Food is also served at the delightful beachside café – a popular location for enjoying an exotic cocktail! There are some wonderful local restaurants on Aitutaki which are well worth trying too – the staff will be happy to point you in the right direction! The hotel is set on 17 acres of tropical forested gardens – and beautiful bridges, ponds and waterfalls surround the elegant lobby. There is a small Spa offering an array of tantalising treatments, as well as a fabulous freshwater horizon swimming pool, gift shop and pearl shop. A ‘must’ during a stay on Aitutaki is a cruise on the magnificent lagoon (which we can pre-arrange for you). Whilst days can easily be filled swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing, if you do insist on being active, a host of activities are available including scuba diving, fishing, windsurfing, sailing and kayaking. As with Rarotonga, scooters can easily be hired – they really are the best way of exploring the local area. Canoes, kayaks and snorkelling gear are provided for guests’ use. Prices for 5 nights from £995 per person in a Beachfront Bungalow, £1260 per person in a Beachfront Suite or £1750 per person in Beachfront Villa based on 2 people sharing including the return flight from Rarotonga, transfers from Aitutaki airport and daily tropical breakfast. International flights are additional.
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