Bora Bora isn’t just about its iconic overwater bungalows and turquoise lagoons; a growing number of dining establishments are escaping the shoreline, offering breathtaking mountain views that elevate the dining experience to new heights. Forget sand between your toes – instead, imagine savoring exquisite Polynesian cuisine with the majestic Mount Otemanu painting the backdrop of your unforgettable meal.
Beyond the Lagoon: Why Mountain View Dining?
Let’s be honest, Bora Bora’s lagoon-side restaurants are stunning. But picture this: the sun setting, not over the water, but casting a golden glow on the jagged peaks of Mount Otemanu. The air is crisp, the views are expansive, and the vibe is…different. It’s more intimate, more secluded, and frankly, more dramatic. Opting for a mountain view dining experience allows you to trade the familiar sights of the lagoon for a uniquely breathtaking perspective, offering a touch of adventure that the often-crowded beach restaurants might lack. It’s not just a meal; it’s an escape – a chance to witness the raw, untamed beauty of Bora Bora’s interior.
Villas & Restaurants Offering Mountain Views: A Detailed Guide
While not every restaurant in Bora Bora boasts a mountain view, several offer truly exceptional experiences, some directly from your private villa. Let’s take look on some of the notable options:
The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
While famed for its overwater villas, The St. Regis provides options for mountain view dining, especially for guests occupying hillside villas. Imagine breakfast on your private terrace, overlooking Mount Otemanu rising majestically above the resort. The villas themselves offer panoramic vistas, but the concierge can also arrange private dining experiences with customized menus catered to your specific preferences. While specific mountain-view-only restaurants don’t exist within St. Regis, leveraging the villa’s advantages and private events makes sure you savor the moment. Expect to pay a premium for this personalized indulgence – private dining experiences can easily range from $500 to $1000+ depending on the menu and level of service.
Tips: If you’re staying at St. Regis, explicitly request a villa with a mountain view when booking. Consider contacting the concierge before your arrival to discuss private dining options and dietary needs.
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
Similar to the St. Regis, the Four Seasons is more renowned for its stunning lagoon views, but certain villa locations have partial or full mountain views. Also, private island experiences and villa barbeque can be configured based on where your villa is. For a truly unique experience, inquire about arranging a private dinner on the hillside, tailored with local ingredients and traditional Polynesian entertainment. The cost for a private dinner here could start anywhere from $600 and quickly escalate based on the complexity and personalization.
Tips: Communicate your preference for a mountain view during the booking stage. Explore the possibility of a catered barbeque at your villa, making full use of the resort’s scenic location. Note that these private events need to be booked with anticipation.
Le Meridien Bora Bora
Le Meridien offers a compelling alternative, providing excellent views from some of its bungalow locations and particularly from their common areas perched at higher elevations. While they may not advertise a specific “mountain view restaurant,” it’s worth requesting a room with a mountain-facing aspect. A tip is to check out their pool areas and upper-level walkways; these vantage points often present spectacular photo opportunities, particularly during sunset. This may be a good choice if you want reasonably priced villas and want to enjoy the mountain view without paying so much for villa or private events.
Tips: When reserving, prioritize the bungalow locations with the best visibility towards Mount Otemanu. Ask about the optimal times to capture memorable photos from the hotel’s prime mountain-view spots.
Sunset Hill Lodge Bora Bora
This small hotel offers an exceptional, more budget-friendly option for those seeking a mountain view. As the name suggests, the lodge is situated on a hill, providing panoramic perspectives of the island, encompassing both the lagoon and Mount Otemanu. This hotel itself doesn’t have a restaurant, but its location makes it easy to explore other dining options on the main island. The real selling point here is the view from the rooms and common areas, offering an intimate and authentic Bora Bora experience. Expect rates to be significantly lower than the luxury resorts – probably around $200-$400 per night.
Tips: Book well in advance, as this small lodge is popular. Rent a scooter to easily explore the island and its culinary offerings. The lodge itself might have local recommendations or even partner restaurants to get deals from.
Exploring Beyond the Resorts for the Best Mountain Views
While many resorts offer mountain views as part of their overall experience, several independent restaurants on the main island of Bora Bora are specifically positioned to showcase the island’s dramatic interior. This offers a welcome change of pace from the lagoon-side dining.
Restaurant Matira
While located near Matira Beach, their elevated location gives you a nice view of the mountains, particularly at sunset. The food is a mix of French and Polynesian influences, and the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. Meals here are typically in the $50-$80 range per person, depending on your order. The location is also convenient, being close to many smaller hotels and guesthouses in the Matira area.
Tips: Call to reserve a terrace table well in advance for the best view. Try the poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice) – it’s a local specialty!
Aloe Café
This casual eatery is known for its delicious and affordable food, but its location also offers great views of the mountains. It’s a great spot for breakfast or lunch, with a menu that includes sandwiches, salads, and local dishes. It’s less fancy than the resorts, of course. Expect to pay around $20-$40 per person for a solid meal. Aloe Café is a good breather with great views and affordable local food.
Tips: Try their fresh-made juices – they are incredibly refreshing. This is a good spot for a quick and easy meal, especially if you’re on a budget.
Essential Aspects of the Mountain View Dining Experience
Beyond simply choosing a restaurant or villa with a view, several factors contribute to creating a truly memorable mountain view dining experience in Bora Bora.
Timing is Everything
Sunset is, unsurprisingly, the most popular time to enjoy a mountain view meal. The golden light casting over Mount Otemanu creates a spectacular ambiance. However, consider lunchtime as an alternative. The bright daylight allows you to fully appreciate the details of the landscape, and it’s often less crowded than dinner. Also, avoid going during rainy periods and get updates on the local weather.
Example: Imagine having a leisurely lunch at Aloe Café around midday, where you can soak in the sun and the sights without the crowds of the evening. Or, picture yourself at Restaurant Matira, witnessing the sky ablaze with color as the sun dips behind the mountains, a glass of chilled white wine in hand.
The Menu Matters
While the view is central, the food should complement the experience. Look for restaurants that feature fresh, local ingredients and traditional Polynesian dishes. These dishes are intrinsically linked to the island’s culture and offer flavor profiles that enhance the overall sensory experience. If you are looking at resorts, discuss with the catering team what you’re likely to want.
Example: Savoring grilled mahi-mahi with a side of creamy taro gratin, all while gazing at Mount Otemanu creates a symphony of flavors and sights that capture the essence of Bora Bora.
Ambiance and Atmosphere
The overall ambiance is just as important as the view and the food. Look for restaurants that offer a relaxed and romantic atmosphere. Soft lighting, comfortable seating, and attentive service can all contribute to a more memorable experience. Some restaurants may offer live music or Polynesian dance performances, enhancing the cultural aspect of the evening. If in a resort villa, have them configure the whole villa to your specific liking.
Example: Imagine dining at the St. Regis villa with soft music playing in the background, the gentle breeze rustling the palm trees, and attentive staff attending to your every need – a truly unparalleled luxury experience.
Getting There: Transportation Considerations
Many of the resorts offer boat transfers to their main facilities from the airport. To reach restaurants on the main island, you have several options: taxis, rental cars, or scooters. Taxis can be expensive, so consider renting a car or scooter if you plan to explore the island independently. Keep in mind that the roads can be narrow and winding, so drive carefully. If you want to spend time in the islands, also explore renting a boat and traversing around—this may add another layer of excitement.
Example: Renting a scooter allows you the flexibility to explore the island at your own pace, stopping at various viewpoints along the way to capture the perfect photo of Mount Otemanu.
Budgeting for Your Mountain View Dining Experience
Dining in Bora Bora can be expensive, especially at the luxury resorts. Prices vary significantly depending on the location and meal. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Casual Cafes (like Aloe Café): $20-$40 per person
- Mid-Range Restaurants (like Restaurant Matira): $50-$80 per person
- Luxury Resort Restaurants: $100+ per person (excluding drinks)
- Private Dining Experiences: $500 – $1000+ (depending on customization)
To save money, consider eating lunch instead of dinner, choosing restaurants outside the resorts, and taking advantage of happy hour specials. And remember, the view is free!
Capturing the Moment: Photography Tips
A mountain view dining experience in Bora Bora is a photographer’s dream. Here are a few tips to capture stunning photos:
- Golden Hour: The hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset provide the most flattering light.
- Composition: Use Mount Otemanu as a focal point, framing it with elements like palm trees or your dining companions.
- Filters: A polarizing filter can reduce glare and enhance colors.
- Panorama: Capture the vastness of the landscape with a panoramic shot.
- Candid Moments: Don’t forget to capture the candid moments – the laughter, the conversation, the shared delight in the stunning view.
Practical Advice for Planning Your Trip
- Book well in advance: Especially during peak season (June-August and December-January).
- Specify your view preference: When booking your accommodation, request a room or villa with a mountain view.
- Check the weather forecast: Plan your dining experience around the weather to ensure optimal visibility.
- Bring insect repellent: Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially at dusk.
- Pack light clothing: Bora Bora has a tropical climate.
- Learn a few basic French phrases: It’s always appreciated by the locals.
- Be prepared to relax and enjoy!
Example Mountain View Dining Itinerary : A Day of Bliss
Let’s envision a sample itinerary to maximize a full day of mountain view experiences in Bora Bora, weaving together relaxation, gastronomy, and breathtaking scenery.
- Morning: Start your day with breakfast at your hotel or villa, if possible, a balcony or terrace with at least a partial mountain view. Even a sliver of Mount Otemanu glimpsed between palm trees can set a fantastic tone. If your accommodation doesn’t offer this, consider taking a short taxi or scooter ride to Aloe Café for a casual and affordable breakfast with stunning views.
- Mid-day: Embark on an island exploration. Rent a scooter and follow the coastal road, stopping at various viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of the lagoon and the mountains. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at a scenic spot – perhaps a quiet beach with a glimpse of Mount Otemanu. Make sure to hydrate—there’s nothing more important in the tropics.
- Afternoon: Relax and rejuvenate at your resort, maybe with a spa treatment or a swim in the pool. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a hike in the mountains for even more spectacular views. Remember to bring water, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear.
- Evening: This is where the magic happens. Reserve a table at Restaurant Matira for a sunset dinner. Arrive a little early to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail and soak in the ambiance. Savor the delicious Polynesian cuisine as you watch the sun paint the sky with breathtaking colors, with Mount Otemanu as the perfect backdrop.
- Night: After dinner, perhaps indulge in a nightcap at your resort’s bar, sharing stories and memories of your unforgettable mountain view dining adventure.
Alternatives: Elevating the Traditional Lagoon Experience
While mountain view restaurants provide a distinct experience, you can seamlessly integrate mountain views into the traditional Bora Bora lagoon itinerary. How about a sunset boat tour where you can also catch the mountain view while you are sailing? Here, the sunset over the island creates a warm glow in the background.
FAQ Section
Q: Are mountain view dining experiences more expensive than lagoon-side dining?
A: Generally, yes. Mountain view dining often involves higher elevation locations and private experiences, which can contribute to a higher cost. However, there are affordable options like Aloe Café and Sunset Hill Lodge, which offer stunning views without breaking the bank.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Bora Bora for mountain view dining?
A: The dry season (May to October) offers the best weather conditions for enjoying mountain views, as there is less chance of rain and clearer skies. However, this is also peak season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.
Q: Is it necessary to make reservations for mountain view restaurants?
A: Absolutely. Especially during peak season and for sunset dinners, reservations are highly recommended to ensure you secure a table with the best view.
Q: What should I wear to a mountain view restaurant?
A: Dress code varies depending on the restaurant. Casual cafes allow for informal attire, but nicer venues and resort restaurants usually necessitate smart casual wear (collared shirts, dresses, or pants). Always verify dress code requirements when booking.
Q: Are there vegetarian or vegan options available at mountain view restaurants?
A: Most restaurants in Bora Bora offer vegetarian options, and many are becoming increasingly accommodating to vegan requests. It’s always best to inquire in advance to ensure there are dishes that meet your dietary needs. Discuss your preferences when booking private events.
References
- Bora Bora Tourism Authority Official Website
- TripAdvisor Bora Bora Restaurant Reviews
Ready to transcend the typical Bora Bora experience? Ditch the beach for an evening and escape to the heights for a mountain view dining adventure you won’t soon forget. Imagine the breathtaking sunset, the exquisite flavors, and the feeling of utter bliss as you witness the magic of Mount Otemanu. Don’t just dream it – book it! Explore the options outlined above, make your reservations early, and prepare to be captivated by a side of Bora Bora that most tourists never see. Make sure to share the joy with all your friends and families as well! Adventure awaits, and it’s calling you to the mountains.
