Skip to content

The southern loop differently

discovering raiatea

What is that ?

Among the traditional circuits when visiting Raiatea, we often do the “southern loop” (the one in orange on the map) which allows you to enjoy both the landscapes and the history of the island.
But there is a way to do this route that adds a sporty and fun touch ... while benefiting from the knowledge of a local to make the trip even more interesting!
Want to know more ? We explain all that to you ...
parcours Raiatea

It is 8am, you arrive at the meeting point at Esland Bike in Raiatea and you meet Hilsen or Gilles who will accompany you this morning. To begin with, they show you your means of transport for this discovery: an eBike or electric bicycle.

Or there, you play sports !!! You hadn’t planned that!

Don’t worry, nothing to do with your previous cycling experiences!

With an eBike, even hills are no longer an obstacle, the electric motor helps you pass them with ease and without too much effort!

If you have any doubts, watch this video made by Esland Bike …

Regardless of the route, you can adjust the assistance to have the impression of being on the flat all along the route, or on the contrary reduce it to give your excursion a little more sporty side … It’s up to you, but what is certain is that you will be able to fully enjoy the landscapes and the sensations.

Because one of the advantages of bicycles is to be able to stop more easily, for a photo, an explanation, a meeting … And this is precisely what Esland Bike will offer you today with its eBike activity at Raiatea.

flore locale
flore jardin botanique

So we take you and your eBike to the starting point of the loop on the Faaroa side. The stops and comments of your guide will vary depending on your own interests and those of the group that will eventually be with you, as well as the meetings along the way:

Do you want to know more about the history of the place, geology, botany, local life … or just to enjoy the course?

Do you notice the copra drying by the side of the road and you want to understand how it is done? Do you want to stop by the pearl farm for some explanations? Are you finding out what a faaapu is …?

Your guide will listen to you to adapt the course to the meetings and your expectations. You will have the opportunity to go through points of interest (I won’t tell you everything to let you discover it there, but here are some photos to give you a taste):

Some possible stopping points for your eBike activity in Raiatea:

– the botanical garden: newly refurbished, it allows you to discover the main species of Polynesia

– the crossing road: both a faster means of access to the South, it is also a means of crossing the agricultural heart of the island

– the Gabbros trail: newly created, it offers a panorama of the valley and geological curiosities (see box)

– the belvedere: soon to be redeveloped to enjoy the panorama even more

– the panoramas of the South: many points of view on the land side as well as on the sea side

– the Marae of Taputapuatea: sacred and ancestral site, which is felt more than it is understood intellectually …

The new gabbros promenade

Whether you are a resident or on vacation, you will undoubtedly appreciate this new place to walk. A way to discover a local and geological curiosity that you certainly did not know before… And in addition with a magnificent panorama!
A few signs along the route will explain why these rocks with particular shapes are present on this site ...
And if you make a stop during an Esland bike ride, you can benefit from additional explanations ... to savor your discovery of the Faaroa Valley caldera even more!

The return will be around 1:00 p.m. (you can plan a small picnic or eat on your way home).

In the end, you will still have traveled 42 kms! (If you’re the less athletic type like me, consider posting your background on Facebook or Instagram to impress your friends, but don’t say it was on a eBike!)

So, convinced by this eBike activity in Raiatea with Esland Bike? Remember to book in advance to be sure you can do it during your stay on our treasure island!

Practical information

Esland Bike

  • On the price side, the outing costs 6,500 F per person (rental of the VAE, transport to the start of the loop, guide, and even trailer to carry your bags!)
  • The outing is possible from 2 people reserved, from Monday to Saturday, by appointment
  • There is another West Coast tour that allows you to enjoy the sunset.
  • You can also book only the rental of the VAE and make the route of your choice in complete freedom.
  • Booking at 87 72 12 71 or on the website Esland Bike
activité en vae à Raiatea

What they thought

"A huge thank you for your precious advice and the quality of the equipment. The bikes are top notch. It's a wonderful way to discover the beauty of the island and the diversity of its landscapes. Special mention for the wild South, the effort to continue its route after the Marae of Taputapuatea is rewarded a thousand times by the unforgettable landscapes. "
Camille
“I kept my legs flexible in Heaven with the help of Esland Bike & Gilles. There was so much to see and enjoy: visiting Raiatea at a comfortable pace on new e-bikes. We started our journey in out of town and enjoyed the beautiful scenery at a comfortable pace. We chatted with Gilles as we went up. He shared his knowledge and passion for the history of French Polynesia and its people. I highly recommend to spending a day touring with Esland Bike. One of the highlights of our trip "
Kathy

ESLAND BIKE

WHERE TO FIND THEM ON THE WEB