The peaceful
The island of Mangareva (floating mountain) is surrounded by a coral reef and boasts a magnificent chain of peaks.
It has a very pleasant climate, ideal for growing coffee, oranges, watermelons and lychees. Temperatures can reach 12°C in July.
Mangareva boasts a lagoon of a thousand colors, famous for its high-quality plankton and mined for its beautiful black pearls of true perfection.
There are no hotel chains or small hotels in this part of the region, favoring direct contact with the locals known in the local dialect as “Ma'areva”.
A charming guesthouse, “Chez Bianca et Benoît”, is located high up, offering a breathtaking view of Rikitea, the capital of the Gambiers, the bay and a few pearl farms.
The owner, Benoît, loves to share his passion for his island. He also offers “Rau” fishing, an ancestral method rarely practiced today, and of which he is one of the last masters.
Mangareva is also a great place to get in touch with nature, with marked trails for hikes on your own or in a group. Deep-sea fishing and even long-line fishing are also available.
St. Michael's Cathedral in Rikitea, a majestic monument to visit, was built in the mid-19ᵉ century from coral blocks. The marvel of this church lies in its altar, a true masterpiece richly decorated with pearls and mother-of-pearl.
The Gambiers are at their best during the months of March and April, offering an oily sea, radiant sunshine, and everything you need for an unforgettable stay rich in memories and unique in emotions.
