InterContinental Resort and Thalasso Spa, Bora Bora

Newly opened in May 2006, this luxurious and romantic hideaway has placed Bora Bora firmly on the map alongside the world’s leading Spas. Serenely set beside a beautiful white sand beach on Motu Piti Auu, between Bora Bora’s dazzling lagoon and the deep-blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, this exclusive ‘overwater retreat’ is Polynesian inspired, with an elegant and contemporary twist.

Each of the 80 overwater villas offers direct access to the lagoon from a split-level sundeck, which also has a freshwater shower. The bathrooms boast freestanding baths set beside picture windows with awe-inspiring views. Flat-screen TV’s, DVD’s, CD players and environmentally-friendly ‘sea water air-conditioning’ are also features of every villa – as are the glass-bottom coffee tables – a ‘must-have’ accessory in Bora Bora!

We recommend either the Sapphire Overwater Villas with their beautiful vistas across the lagoon to the main island of Bora Bora – or for that extra indulgence, the Diamond Overwater Villas with the most awe-inspiring views across the turquoise lagoon to Bora Bora’s dramatic peak, Mount Otemanu.

As well as the seriously stunning villas, a major drawcard of the resort is the Thalasso Spa by Algotherm (which opened in September 2006) –not only the first of its kind in the southern hemisphere but French Polynesia’s first true destination spa. Mineral-rich deep sea water is used in innovative signature treatments, offering anything from soothing massages to weekly regimes tailored especially for you – the focus is on relaxation, vitality, romance – and of course, jet-lag recovery! Stretching 10,000 square feet from the lagoon to the ocean, the Thalasso Spa features an aquatonic seawater pool, superb hydrotherapy and beauty areas, fitness and aerobic rooms with personal trainers, and three overwater treatment bungalows with glass-bottom floors.

Kayaks, outrigger canoes, windsurfers and snorkelling equipment are offered on a complimentary basis – and there is a magnificent freshwater infinity pool on the beach. We also recommend visiting the main island of Bora Bora where 4WD safaris can easily be arranged.

Le Reef Restaurant offers gastronomic cuisine and magnificent views – whilst the more casual Sand's Bar & Restaurant and trendy Bubble’s Bar are the ideal spots for a light snack and fresh fruit cocktail as you savour the views of one of the world’s most beautiful lagoons!

The hotel is a scenic 30 minute boat transfer from Bora Bora airport.

PRICES Prices for 5 nights from £1390 per person in a Sapphire Overwater Villa or £1510 per person in a Diamond Overwater Villa, based on 2 people sharing, including breakfast and return boat transfers from Bora Bora airport. International flights and the inter-island airpass are additional. Fly to Tahiti via Los Angeles on the award winning services of Air New Zealand from only £990 including taxes and fuel surcharges. Please ask your consultant about upgrading to spacious Pacific Premium from only £280 per sector.