InterContinental Resort & Thalasso Spa, Bora Bora, Tahiti

Unique in Bora Bora, this resort only offers overwater accommodation, there are no beach villas. Each of the 84 villas and suites offer 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. Sea water air-conditioning (or 'SWAC'), an advanced system that uses deep, cold sea water to cleverly cool the resort, and glass-bottom coffee tables – a ‘must-have’ accessory in Bora Bora! - are features in every room.

All room categories offer the same wonderful design and style, but the views differ depending how far you are along the pontoon. Overwater Villas Beach View are closest to the main resort area and enjoy views towards the beach, Overwater Villas Lagoon View have beautiful vistas across Bora Bora's famous lagoon, and the Overwater Villas Bora Bora Island View gaze out to the island's undulating green hills. But for truly incredible views of the lagoon and Bora Bora's dramatic peak, Mount Otemanu, opt for an Overwater Villa Otemanu View. A handful of villas also feature a private pool on the deck for an added sense of luxury and indulgence, with views towards the beach or lagoon.

We adore every room at this fabulous resort, but the highlight has to be the four stunning two-bedroom Villa Teremoana located at the end of each pontoon with a private pool elevated above the sparkling water, expansive decking, large living area and incredible views of the lagoon and Mount Otemanu. Each of the four Villa Teremoana can be booked as either one or two bedrooms, making them the perfect choice for honeymooners as well as families.

The resort offers a variety of restaurants and bars, from casual beachside fare to fine dining. Le Reef Restaurant offers gastronomic cuisine and magnificent views, whilst the more casual Sands Bar & Restaurant and chic Bubbles 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! For a gourmet experience, the intimate Corail restaurant has seating for just 24 people and features the largest wine cellar in French Polynesia with an extensive selection of Old and New World wines.

By day, take advantage of a range of complimentary watersports, or simply relax in the beachfront infinity pool. At the heart of the resort, Deep Ocean Spa is the first thalassotherapy centre in the South Pacific. The signature treatment uses mineral-rich deep sea water drawn from depths of over 900m, and three of the spa suites sit over the turquoise lagoon with glass-bottom floors adding tranquillity and underwater magic to your spa experience! 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. Kayaks, outrigger canoes, windsurfers and snorkelling equipment are available, 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.