Vahine Island

This private 10 acre island, which sits on the outer coral ring of Tahaa’s magnificent blue lagoon, is a real hidden gem, offering an intimate ‘Robinson Crusoe’ desert island hideaway for only a few privileged guests. There are just 3 overwater bungalows and 6 beachfront bungalows and suites hidden amongst the bougainvillea and coconut palms. The accommodation is rustic but charming –and the careful use of local wood and bamboo has ensured that the traditional architecture blends naturally with the pristine surroundings.

It is not hard to spend lazy days just relaxing on the sundeck, soaking up the ambience of this romantic South Seas paradise. Each bungalow is cooled by a ceiling fan – and all have a double bed and an ensuite with shower. The 3 beach suites and the overwater bungalows offer the added space of a living area (the overwater bungalows also have a glass bottom coffee table).

Canoes, kayaks, snorkelling and windsurf equipment are all provided for your use – and your hosts can also arrange a number of excursions including 4WD jeep safaris to the vanilla plantations of Taha’a, ‘castaway’ picnics on motus (islets) in the lagoon, and fishing or shark feeding by outrigger canoe.

The open-sided restaurant is the central hub of this tiny island – and you will enjoy superb fresh local specialities including ‘Mahi Mahi’ steak (grilled fish) flavoured with Taha’a vanilla. Lunch is often a casual affair on the beach – whilst in the evenings, the flickering candlelight of the restaurant and bar beckons! Access to Vahine Island is via a 30 minute boat transfer from Raiatea airport.

PRICES Prices for 5 nights from £965 per person in a Beach Bungalow or £1230 per person in a Beach Suite or an Overwater Bungalow, based on 2 people sharing, including breakfast, dinner and return transfers from Raiatea 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.