Raiatea is the capital of the Leeward Society Islands, located
roughly 135 miles northwest of Tahiti.
Widely known as "The Sacred Island," Raiatea was considered
to be the very cradle of Polynesian civilization (Havai'i) by
her ancestors; the geographical heart of the ma'ohi culture
(forming Hawaii-New Zealand-Easter island); and the birthplace
of the god Oro (god of fertility and of war).
It was Oro who was attempting to overthrow Ta'aroa (god of creation)
when the Europeans first arrived in this pacific triangle.
Until
1897 Raiatea (spreading sky) was the alliance between a Tahitian
prince and a princess from Havai'a which would remain a bastion
for the ma'ohi royalty during their revolt, before becoming a French
protectorate nine years later. During the 20th Century, the island
has slowly evolved.
The importance of the district of Opoa (in the southeast corner
of the island) has gradually decreased with the establishment of
Uturoa in the north by the missionaries at the turn of the 19th
century.
It
was to become the chief district of the Leeward Islands, acquiring
municipality status at the end of World War One.
Today, Uturoa is a true economic center with its seaport, airport,
commercial and educational establishments.
Ten thousand inhabitants populate over 171 square miles.
The island of Raiatea has maintained its special peacefulness, so
characteristic of Polynesia, with its quiet life and gentle people.
The
jagged mountain outline of Raiatea reaches up to 3,336 feet and
offers a beautiful lookout, particularly from the top of mount
Temehani, home to the unique flower: Tiare apetahi.
Raiatea's deep valleys and isolated villages complete a picture
of nature in its most primitive state. Numerous deserted motus encircle
the island with their sparkling white sand beaches.
There is no doubt that this little corner of the South Pacific is
a true paradise on earth.
Therefore, it should come as no surprise to discover the RAIATEA
PEARL RESORT as a top quality accommodation on this sacred island.
The hotel is situated on the fringe of the lagoon in the magnificent
Tepua bay.
There
are 32 rooms, including eight garden bungalows and twelve overwater
bungalows, combining traditional style with modern comforts to
host both local and international guests.
At Tahiti Legends,
we provide you with all the information
you need to make the right vacation decision.
Legends
is registered as a California Seller of Travel #1005294-40. Registration
as a Seller of Travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.
Until
1897 Raiatea (spreading sky) was the alliance between a Tahitian
prince and a princess from Havai'a which would remain a bastion
for the ma'ohi royalty during their revolt, before becoming a French
protectorate nine years later. During the 20th Century, the island
has slowly evolved. 
It
was to become the chief district of the Leeward Islands, acquiring
municipality status at the end of World War One. 
There is no doubt that this little corner of the South Pacific is
a true paradise on earth. 
There
are 32 rooms, including eight garden bungalows and twelve overwater
bungalows, combining traditional style with modern comforts to
host both local and international guests. 
