SOFITEL Hotel, Bora-Bora, French Polynesia, SOFITEL Company, ACCORD Group Review

Overlooking one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world, this awesome place is located in the heart of the exceptional Matira Bay, nestled on a private islet facing the main island of Bora Bora. A secret hideaway where you can enjoy a peaceful and romantic retreat, regenerate yourself and savour the exquisite feeling of being at home on your own private island. This boutique hotel is emphasizing privacy and intimacy to create a unique experience in the heart of native vegetation surrounded by turquoise water and beautiful coral gardens. We were passing by during our island tour and had the chance to stop and take some pictures of this wonderful place!

Top place. A bit pricey (especially for overwater bungalow). Should be on every westerners bucket list. Super clear waters

Wonderful hotel. Quiet and perfectly maintained. Great staff.

The best honeymoon we could have ever dreamed of. The staff is so caring and attentive, every little detail is taken care of. Best breakfast ever. Great dinners and a maitre who deserves special recognition. Cleaning staff super nice. Amazing private beach. All the tours they arrenged for us were great. The best and most exclusive experience I've ever had.

BEST location in Bora Bora, hands-down, plus we loved the small resort atmosphere (I think there were only 20-30 rooms on the island). If you're looking for good snorkeling, this is the best since the Coral Garden is just behind you, and for great sunset views, walk to the top of the island and enjoy all the sitting areas amongst the natural beauty. What this resort does not have is a beach (at least not one that is maintained), pool, or the full-service staff attention you would get at the bigger resort... and the attention to detail in the rooms was a bit lacking since they're showing their age (thus the 4 out of 5 star rating I gave), however I would trade that any day for the quiet, private atmosphere. And the waterways near the hotel are much less congested than the bigger resorts, plus you get free transportation to the island anytime, and a restocked minibar for free. Just be aware, the partner Sofitel resort on the main island has stalled construction so there are no available amenities even though they say you can use the pool, etc.; if this had been open, I think the additional dining options, beach and pool would have made this a five-star plus review, but I guess we'll have to wait till next Dec when it was supposed to re-open to find out.

The location was perfect for all activities. The service was outstanding. Highly recommend this place.

Very nice spot to stay for a few days and indulge in the simple pleasures of life.

Fantastic location, ideal for couples as children below 12 are not allowed.
Only 60 people max on the motu, which makes it a pretty quiet place. Great outdoor area (no swimming pool though) with an amazing coral garden just 4 minutes snorkel or canoeing time away.

Overwater bungalows with direct access to the lagoon are good but don't expect them to be modern. If you get one with a bathtub, showering without splashing the whole bathroom will be a challenge.The hotel will be fully renovated in 2 years.
If the weather is windy, you will hear it!

Breakfast is comprehensive with a mix of continental, French and Asian flavours.
Food at the restaurant (only one on.the motu) is good in general but not consistent (some days, they will overcook your meat or fishes), and not very diverse. After 3 days, you probably will have to select the same dishes again. Count at least 150 EUR for 2 people for a 2 course dinner and wine.

Staff is very friendly though not efficient (there is nearly always something missing ) and slow (as in most resorts in French Polynesia by the way). Not an issue as we were on holiday but your patience will be welcome. ;)

We had pleasant surprises of having a bottle of Champagne and macaroons waiting for us in the room on arrival (we mentioned at reservation that we were on a honeymoon trip).
And we got every evening nice gifts (hat, t shirt, cakes etc) in our room.
The arrival with the ukulele and the coconut drink are memorable.

The romantic dinner (around 330 EUR for 2) is worthwile!

I would typically give 4 stars for the room and value for money overall but I kept 5 in my overall evaluation due to the exceptional location and the boutique style, which is not common in Bora Bora.

We felt really good in this hotel!

Staying here for our honeymoon was a dream come true. They traditionally greet you with lei's and they blow into their conch horn on arrival and departure. We actually arrived earlier than schedule, and without a hitch Dyanne (our amazing concierge) made sure a room was ready ASAP while we ate breakfast.

There were only a few hitches that we noticed (but not deal breakers). Our bungalow was beautiful, clean, and luxurious, however it is probably time for some updating. There were small piles of occasional random sand spots, apparently from sand bugs? However they come in to clean the floors etc daily and they always leave little treats and refill the fridge with beer and water. HUGE plus! The company is updating the other sister property (right across the water), and this resort is probably next in line. However, they did such a great job with design, that even though it needs updating, the look is timeless.

The food was pretty good for a resort, and the breakfast buffet is totally worth the investment since the island is.....an island.....and why trek somewhere to get breakfast, just get it there. The breakfast had a huge assortment of items, and an egg station for fresh eggs or omelets etc. We also had the traditional Tahitian dinner with dancing, and the pork was to die for.

The island itself is also pretty amazing. It is right next to a local hot spot for snorkeling that you can literally swim over to (it's that close), or use one of the FREE kayaks/stand up paddle boards/snorkel gear to get over there. I think one of the big bonuses was that because it's a private island, you do have a ton of privacy and intimacy with the resort. The con is that to get anywhere else, it is a short ride to the main island of Bora Bora, but definitely don't let that hinder you from staying here.

The shining star of this resort truly has to be the staff. From the waitresses with my daily coffee, the bell hops/activities desk, and maids who cleaned our messes, I was always greeted with a smile, they are kind and courteous and the concierge's (Dyanne and T-something) were responsive, charming, and attentive.

A huge thank you to the staff and the island of Bora Bora for a week to remember! We love you!