Rarotonga: Best places to lay your head

Freelance travel and lifestyle writer·NZ Herald·

10 May, 2016 10:00 PM3 mins to read

Ikurangi Eco Retreat offers a luxury glamping experience.

In part one of a two-part series, Tracey Bond takes a look at some of Rarotonga's best resorts.

RUMOURS LUXURY VILLA AND SPA

These luxury villas are hidden behind an elegant sandstone wall and offer just about everything you could want. Indoor waterfall? Check. Movie room? Check. Deck looking out over your own private beach? Check. The villas each have two double rooms with four-poster beds and generous, top-end bathrooms. The light, airy villas are adults only and if getting away from it all and not seeing another soul are high on your to-do list, this is the place for you. Breakfast is brought to your room. Blissful massages are available from the neighbouring spa and if the walk is too far, someone from the villas will drive you.

Added extras: Welcome drink on arrival, free airport transfers and free bike hire.
Perfect for: Celebrities (or regular folk) wanting to get away from the world.

LITTLE POLYNESIAN RESORT

This gem of a resort lies away from the hustle and bustle of Muri. Eleven modern, light areas sit along the front of a picture-perfect beach, framed by palm trees and the sound of waves washing along the sand. Bungalows have kitchenettes, day beds scattered throughout the room and an outdoor spa pool and shower. Double vanities in a massive bathroom make this the ideal hideaway. The boutique restaurant beside a turquoise-blue infinity pool is a great spot to have a pre-dinner cocktail or share a romantic meal. Snorkelling gear and kayaks are available for guests to use.

Added extras: Luxury bathrobes, and juice in the fridge.
Perfect for: Romantics and honeymooners who only have eyes for each other.

IKURANGI ECO RETREAT

If you fancy a spot of glamping, check out this luxury eco resort, which is a fairly recent addition to the accommodation scene in Rarotonga. Luxury canvas tents are set in beautifully manicured gardens and look across to the Takitumu mountain ranges. The four safari tents are pitched on private, timber decks, which face the mountains and have all the mod cons (including electricity) you would expect from a high-end hotel room. A nice addition is the luxurious outdoor bathroom with shower and bath. A daily tropical breakfast is delivered to your room. There's a Lotus Belle tent used for yoga sessions and a number of bungalows suitable for family groups. The resort is a five-minute drive to the beach but if that seems too far away there is a saltwater pool to float away your troubles in. It's the perfect spot to unwind and relax.

Extra touches: Free wi-fi vouchers on arrival and resort bikes are provided to guests.
Best for: Eco warriors, nature lovers and families looking for quality time.