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Relais de la Maroto was built to house
the engineers that built Tahiti's hydroelectric system in the beautiful
Papenoo Valley.
The Maroto Inn can be reached by 4 wheel drive vehicles or by helicopter- either choice providing spectacular scenery. The 16km track
begins just before the Papenoo bridge (coming from
Papeete) at around PK18. It takes 1.5 hours by 4WD
or a full day on foot.
Whether you visit for a day or an overnight stay, the experience is bound to be one you'll long remember. This place is in
such a phenomenal mountain setting that it's worth a few mould- induced
sneezes to stay here. Put on your hiking shoes and breathe the fresh air
of the waterfalls, valleys and archaeological sites that surround this
oddball hotel.
Sixteen km (10mi) up the largest and most
spectacular valley of Tahiti, Relais de Maroto sits
near the end of a track built and serviced by the
hydroelectric company of Tahiti. The hotel feels
somewhat like an old summer camp and is in need of a
good clean but fortunately, this isn't a place where
you would want to sit around in your room.
The
surrounding mountains, valleys and rivers are home
to the best and most accessible hiking opportunities
on Tahiti. In contrast with the not-so-chic
ambience, there is a swanky wine cave with the best
wine collection in French Polynesia. Hike during the
day and participate in wine tastings and French
style epicurean soirees. The restaurant here is OK
but expensive - bring some snacks.
Guided hikes
and non-guided hikes are available and the friendly
staff can provide maps and directions. There is an
interesting archaeological site a short walk from
the hotel as well as some natural slides down the
basalt rocks of a rushing river.
For
more general information
on French Polynesia, go to: |
