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The lagoon, RarotongaThe Cook IslandsScattered over an area the size of WesternEurope, the 15 tiny islands that make up theCook Islands archipelago are an hypnotic blend ofrainforest-cloaked mountains, idyllic beaches,teeming coral reefs and peaceful lagoons. Even bySouth Pacific standards they are a serene andunspoiled retreat. The lack of development hereemphasises the islands’ amazing beauty, but alongwith the spectacular scenery you will alsoencounter a vibrant local culture influenced byChristian missionaries but primarily based on anancient Polynesian belief system that embraces aseries of gods, myths and legends.RarotongaThe largest of the islands, Rarotonga, rises some4,500 metres from the ocean floor. Created as aresult of violent volcanic activity millions of yearsago, the island’s interior, most of which isuninhabited and untouched, is made up of erodedvolcanic peaks clad in dense rainforest. Exploringthe interior is a rewarding experience and a 4x4expedition or cross-island trek are two of the bestways to see it. Contrasting sharply with the lushvegetation and mountainous terrain, the largelyflat coastal area is fringed with ribbons of whitesand giving way to mesmerising blue lagoons.The islands’ townships cling to the shoreline andare home to small but strong communities.74A visit to a weekend market or a local churchservice is a wonderful introduction to island life.To the southeast of the island the graceful widelagoon is protected by an outer reef making itideal for swimming, snorkelling and water sports.Local restaurants showcase a variety of seafoodand tropical fruits such as pineapples, papayas,coconuts and bananas that form the basis ofthe local diet.Royale Takitumu Villas,RarotongaSet amongst lush vegetation, tropical pools andnative flowers, this exclusive development offerscomfort, style and seclusion. The ten beautifulvillas have glorious views of the beach or are setback amongst the elegant landscaped gardens.A pool and pristine white-sand beach are idealfor lazing around but you can also use theresort’s kayaks or snorkelling equipment toexplore the lagoon.Royale Takitumu Villas, RarotongaCrown Beach Resort,RarotongaThe Crown Beach Resort offers 22 spacious,self-contained villas nestled in extensive tropicalgardens that lead onto a beautiful stretch ofwhite-sand beach. The stunning swimming pooloffers superb views of the beach and the gardensand is an ideal place to relax with a good book.There is a wonderful spa offering a range oftreatments and the resort has two restaurants; themore formal Windjammer, which serves deliciousfish and homemade bread, and the beachsideCabana Bar and Grill, for more casual dining.Little Polynesian, RarotongaPerched on palm-fringed golden sands, LittlePolynesian is operated by a professional yetincredibly friendly local team. The resort, whichhas only nine villas, retains a small and intimateambience and offers attention to detail and servicewhich is second to none. Choose betweenbeachfront villas with views across the lagoon andout to the ocean, or villas set amongst thebeautifully tailored tropical gardens. Villas areprivate and spacious and decorated in a classicyet sophisticated traditional island style. Resortfacilities include an infinity pool with magnificentviews and a delightful little restaurant.