More than an island, Bora Bora is the epitome of Polynesian charm, spread out over a magnificent lagoon with idyllic motu under the perfect silhouette of Mount Otemanu. It is a dream conjured into an island.
Rarely has an island on this planet so embodied an earthly paradise—welcome to Bora Bora in the heart of the Leeward Islands! More than just a name and a myth, it is also a promise of an escape into another world still located on this same planet. This is a land whose history dates back millions of years; the time it took to shape this natural treasure. Between 3.1 million and 3.4 million years B.C., this island was an active volcano that dominated the deep blue ocean. After the cessation of volcanic activity, the erosive forces of the ocean, rain, and winds attacked this formidable rocky edifice. It also met powerful tectonic forces that caused it to sink, while in reverse, everything around it rose up with coral structures created by organisms constantly seeking light near the surface. The coral built this impressive barrier reef with its spectacular colors encircling the remains of the ancient volcano.
The unparalleled beauty of Bora Bora’s landscapes is what has made this land so closely linked to the most passionate, unbridled romanticism. Couples on their honeymoons come to seal and celebrate their love in the shade of majestic Mount Otemanu. The “Pearl of the Pacific” as it is known, shines very brightly to the delight of visitors from all over the world. The island is without a doubt the top tourism spot in French Polynesia. It offers a large choice of luxury hotels that excel in the art of making sure your stay is enjoyed in tranquility, comfort and luxury. There are also several family-run inns that offer different packages yet that are just as pleasant.
Bora Bora epitomizes the Polynesia of dreams and fantasies, the most desired, the seductress. It is necessary to go there and explore for yourself, even if quite mistakenly, you think you know enough of Bora Bora from the photos and images that are out there. However, a visit will bring to life that magic moment in which something that was once a dream becomes real.
Claude-jacques Bourgeat
This past is still present with these landscapes shaped with the graceful, distinctive silhouettes of Mounts Otemana and Pahia overlooking a vast lagoon surrounded by motu, coral islets. The motu exude magic. Without a doubt, these are the most charming and striking motu of all of our islands. One after another, long white sand beaches are shaded by coconut trees and bathed in crystal waters. This is a paradise for all kinds of water activities, picnics and other types of escapades to explore this preserved environment. The island’s coast consists of a blend of bays and points. The mountains are also worth checking out through walks or vigorous hikes. The reward will be unprecedented magnificent views. The lagoon, which alternates between sandy shallow and deeper areas, has exceptional beauty. There is abundant fauna and flora that grows in the lagoon and on the drop-offs of the barrier reefs. These are wonderful diving areas to meet rays, turtles and a variety of tropical fish.
Since the 1960s, tourism has been the main activity on this tiny island community of 9160 inhabitants. This is an immersive activity; however, it has not let these islanders, happy permanent residents of paradise, forget to preserve a way of life that is thoroughly Polynesian: friendly, cheerful and based on the ocean and its pleasures. The island has a unique aura that has repeatedly attracted and seduced unknown people, celebrities, artists and adventurers, such as the famous French navigator Alain Gerbault and explorer of the icy stretches of the Arctic and Antarctic, Paul-Emile Victor. In the past, both resided in Bora Bora. Today, millionnaires have also chosen to live there, yet discreetly.
