TOUR OF THE ISLAND
Read moreUturoa may be the second most important city in Polynesia, but it is still very easy to find yourself in the middle of nature! The access to Mount Tapioi and its pretty belvedere is unfortunately closed, but the tour of the island is highly recommended. A paved road of only 100 km awaits the travelers, delivering magnificent views on the lagoon and the interior mountains. A traverse road leads to two viewpoints: one overlooking Faaroa Bay, the summit of Orataio volcano and the strange bamboo forests; the other overlooking Fetuna Bay and the motu Nao-Nao. It is recommended to rent a car for the day. If you prefer to be guided (a guide always knows a lot more and can share his knowledge and love of the island), choose Trucky Tours. From the old Hawaiki Nui hotel, don't miss a look at the mountain side: a superb view of Mount Temehani, where the Tiare Apetahi grows, a flower endemic to Raiatea.
From PK 15 on the east coast, the Faaroa River flows inland: it is the only navigable river in Polynesia. Check with Lagon Aventure for a half-day river trip.
At PK 17, in the heart of the crater, the view is interesting on Mount Tefatua. Time seems to have stopped and nature is back in control. Further on, the village of Opoa is famous for hosting the descendants of the ancient Arii (kings), and the famous Taputaputaea marae , at KP 31, one of the most important archaeological sites in Polynesia and the South Pacific. The magic of ancestral ceremonies still seems to rustle..
The following kilometers are perhaps the most beautiful. There is no lack of panoramic views of the lagoon. The walkers can reach the sugar loaf of Faeratai, where not less than 3 500 petroglyphs have been recorded. A beautiful waterfall follows the river; count about 40 minutes of walking.
The small villages that follow are enchanting. The west coast of the island is bathed in an old-fashioned tranquility. The road follows the lagoon very closely.
At PK 13 on the west coast, the marae of Tainuu has not retained its charm. However, the upright coral slabs and the engraved stones evoke a glorious past that we enjoy imagining.
You finally reach the Miri-Miri pass, a joy for experienced surfers, around PK 10, while a hiking trail leaves in the direction of Mount Temehani, a superb walk not to be missed. Here you are in Tevaitoa, which has a beautiful white sand beach.