Le Taha'a Island Resort & Spa

There’s no mistaking the sweet smelling aroma which pervades the air as you arrive on Taha’a, the ‘Vanilla Island’, which shares the warm waters of its turquoise lagoon with its sacred sister island, Raiatea.

Magnificently hidden away on the idyllic ‘Motu Tautau’, an islet which sits on the lagoon’s outer coral reef off the west coast of Taha’a, this chic hideaway is a member of the distinguished Relais & Chateaux hotel association – and it is now widely recognised as being one of French Polynesia’s most exclusive retreats. Opened in July 2002, it is fringed with coconut palms, colourful flowers and a long white sandy beach – and its pristine lagoon waters boast one of the most beautiful coral gardens in Tahiti.

The accommodation is stunning – and irresistibly romantic! Le Taha’a offers a choice of 12 elegant beach villas and 48 exquisitely stylish overwater suites – all of which are air-conditioned (there is a ceiling fan too) – and all have a CD player.

The beach villas enjoy absolute privacy and seclusion, tucked away amidst the lush vegetation – each one with its own enclosed tropical garden with a large terrace and outdoor pool. The bedroom has a kingsize bed – there is a spacious living area – and the ensuite has a separate shower and bath. Polished timber floors and crisp white linen add a contemporary touch. June 2007 saw the introduction of two Royal Beach Villas at Le Taha'a, each boasting two bedrooms – perfect for families seeking the ultimate in luxury and seclusion.

The overwater suites are equally as intimate. Each has a large sundeck with direct access to the lagoon – and like the beach villas, there is a kingsize bed and beautiful bathroom with separate shower and bath. The use of soft natural tones creates a relaxed, romantic ambience. The only distinguishing feature between the overwater suites is the location. The Taha’a overwater suites have sweeping views across the lagoon to Mount Ohiri on Taha’a Island – the Sunset overwater suites are perfectly positioned to enjoy the breathtaking views of the setting sun – whilst, as their name suggests, the Bora Bora overwater suites boast unsurpassed views across the ocean to the legendary island of Bora Bora. Those opting for one of three End of Pontoon overwater suites will benefit from the most private overwater location of all!

Le Taha’a has 3 restaurants – ‘La Plage’ is located by the pool and beachside, whilst ‘Vanille’ and ‘Ohiri’ are set amongst the trees in the heart of the retreat.

The freshwater swimming pool overlooks the lagoon – and there is also a tennis court. Kayaks, windsurfs, outrigger canoes and snorkelling equipment are all available for use on a complimentary basis. In addition, shark feeding excursions, sunset cruises, 4WD jeep safaris on Taha’a and unforgettable scenic helicopter flights to Bora Bora can easily be arranged. Of course, there is also the fabulous Manea Spa where you can relax and be pampered.

PRICES Prices for 5 nights from £1715 per person in a Beach Villa, £1510 per person in a Taha’a Overwater Suite, £1905 per person in a Sunset or Bora Bora Overwater Suite or £2190 per person in an End of Pontoon Overwater Suite, based on 2 people sharing, including return boat 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.