If you’re looking for a total escape from the hecticness of the day-to-day and yearn to make your way on the road less traveled whilst still taking care of the environment, then the award-winning Ikurangi Eco Retreat in the Cook Islands might just be the perfect escape for you.
The award-winning Ikurangi Eco Retreat in the Cook Islands is the first purpose-built eco accommodation and glamping hotel giving visitors to Rarotonga a magical, eco-conscious stay that doesn’t compromise the environment. Nestled away between organic gardens, lush local plantations, and under the stunning vista of the Takitumu mountains, this beautiful South Pacific Island haven offers guests a chance to get back in touch with nature whilst still enjoying a luxurious and indulgent vacation.
Location
The Pacific Ocean is the largest and deepest on Earth and set in its Southern half, you will find the South Pacific Islands, which fall into the same time zone as Hawaii. Of course, everyone has heard of Fiji, the most popular island in the South Pacific, attracting more than 690,000 visitors each year, however, there are many lesser-known but equally, if not more, beautiful South Pacific Islands out there to discover, so why not head off the beaten track and experience all the Cook Islands has to offer?
The Cook Islands comprises 15 islands scattered across vast turquoise waters. The largest island, Rarotonga, is home to wonderfully friendly people, stunning volcanic peaks, rainforests, blue lagoons, coral reefs, and palm-fringed sandy beaches – it truly is a sun-kissed paradise. There are no branded resorts, no buildings taller than a coconut tree, no hectic crowds, and no stop lights – yet the islands offer modern conveniences, incredible tours and experiences, and a wide range of luxury hotels and retreats for every type of traveler.
Rarotonga truly has something to offer even the most discerning of travelers, whether you’re looking for rest and relaxation, family fun, activity, or adventure, you’ll find it all here. Guests can try snorkeling, SUP, sea scooters, kayaking, lagoon cruises, fishing and diving trips, island day trips, and of course, cultural experiences to immerse in. The capital, Avarua, with its Punanga Nui Market, offers local arts and crafts, fashion, and more. Rarotonga only takes half an hour to drive around but getting straight across takes much longer – rainforests and volcanic peaks are there to be hiked up or discovered by 4×4, and best of all, there are no snakes or poisonous insects to be wary of!
Tip: Rarotonga, the main island, is easy to get around using the public bus service, which goes around the island both clockwise and anticlockwise; simply hop on and off to visit the sights!
Visiting the Cook Islands is easy, with flights now available via Tahiti or Auckland.
Style & Character
Set amongst organic gardens and local plantations with dramatic mountain views, this luxurious, yet rustic retreat will allow you to get back to nature and indulge in a magical eco escape like no other. With a firm belief in responsible tourism, Ikurangi Eco Retreat ensures that sustainability is at the heart of everything they do. With spacious outdoor decks that bring nature inside and a velvet sky filled with twinkling stars above to light your evenings, a stay here will be truly unforgettable.
Service & Facilities
Nestled in tropical gardens, this eco-conscious resort boasts a saltwater pool surrounded by sun loungers and parasols, guests can also make use of the complimentary bicycles and snorkeling gear, yoga classes on-site, mini book exchange library, board games, and Wi-Fi hotspot if you really need to get back in touch with reality. Daily tropical breakfasts are delivered right to your door every morning and artisan coffee and teas are available in your room. The reception and tour desk is open seven days a week for local advice, and bookings and rooms are serviced every day (except Sundays).
Rooms
Guests can choose between sturdy canvas Luxury Safari Tents perched on raised timber decks or light and airy, high-ceilinged Tropical Are’s (Polynesian style studios), each of which has been thoughtfully positioned to ensure maximum privacy and beautiful views, and all are guaranteed to offer an ultra-romantic, tropical setting for your getaway. There are three Luxury Safari Tents with private outdoor jungle ensuites with modern composting toilets, while the fourth Ariki Safari Tent also enjoys a romantic claw-foot bathtub and complimentary bubbles on arrival, perfect for honeymooners. The three Tropical Are are more traditional, with a.standard indoor bathroom and kitchenette with microwave and toaster. All accommodations offer a super king bed or twin singles on request, a large decking area with seating under the stars, an outdoor hot water shower, waffle robes, eco-luxe toiletries, a yoga mat, fan, a bar fridge, safe, tea and coffee making facilities, unlimited filtered water and electricity for charging electrical items.
Food & Drink
Although there is no restaurant onsite, guests can enjoy a complimentary daily tropical breakfast delivered to your door featuring organic fruits, chia seed puddings with cocoa nibs, bircher and island smoothie, and croissants with smashed avocado. Locally roasted artisan coffee and teas and unlimited filtered water are available in-room too. There are also lots of dining options outside the resort, with abundant cafes, restaurants, and bars dotted along the shoreline.
Conclusion
Ikurangi Eco Retreat in the Cook Islands will truly steal a piece of your heart whilst leaving you safe in the knowledge that you are looking after and not damaging the majestic environment around you.
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