RAIATEA & TAHAA Experience the roots of Polynesian culture and the natural beauty that inspired it. Raiatea is revered by the Tahitians as the birthplace of their religion and culture. According to legend, it was from her shores that ancient Polynesian explorers set off for Hawaii and New Zealand. On this awesome, mountainous island, visitors can venture up the Faaroa, the only navigable river in French Polynesia. A climb up Mount Temehani will reward the adventurous with a rare glimpse of the Tiare Apetahi, a flower which grows no place else on earth. On Raiatea, visitors can also marvel at the Taputapuatea Marae, considered the most important and best-preserved religious site in French Polynesia. Tahaa, Raiatea's sister island and a short speedboat hop away, is almost untouched by the 20th century, with spectacular bays carved from verdant hills. Stay in a small bungalow-style hotel or take an unforgettable day trip.