By John Roberts
Much of how we would spend our week in French Polynesia was plotted out well ahead of time.
Of course, lazy time on the isolated motus (small islands) with their gorgeous beaches.
Plenty of snorkel time, naturally.
Standup paddleboarding and a bit of kayaking, too, off the back of the m/s Paul Gauguin cruise ship.
All of those activities were as expected. Spectacular fun amid the beyond-description backdrop of the green mountains and blue waters on display during our time in the lagoons of the Society Islands.
When we hit Moorea at the end of our cruise, we were finally looking for time away from the water. So, we checked out our hiking options. Hiking always is a favorite activity for us because it's a great way to get in a good workout and sightseeing at the same time.
We found gorgeous Magic Mountain.
The loop hike is relatively steep and takes at least two hours to complete, with stops along the way and at the top for your photos. Once you reach the peak, you are rewarded with 360-degree views of the region -- with its spiky mountain peaks lining the island's skyline and the beautiful turquoise and blue waters below.
Much of how we would spend our week in French Polynesia was plotted out well ahead of time.
Of course, lazy time on the isolated motus (small islands) with their gorgeous beaches.
Plenty of snorkel time, naturally.
Standup paddleboarding and a bit of kayaking, too, off the back of the m/s Paul Gauguin cruise ship.
All of those activities were as expected. Spectacular fun amid the beyond-description backdrop of the green mountains and blue waters on display during our time in the lagoons of the Society Islands.
When we hit Moorea at the end of our cruise, we were finally looking for time away from the water. So, we checked out our hiking options. Hiking always is a favorite activity for us because it's a great way to get in a good workout and sightseeing at the same time.
We found gorgeous Magic Mountain.
The loop hike is relatively steep and takes at least two hours to complete, with stops along the way and at the top for your photos. Once you reach the peak, you are rewarded with 360-degree views of the region -- with its spiky mountain peaks lining the island's skyline and the beautiful turquoise and blue waters below.
On the way up to the top, you'll find great views of the bay at every turn. Here, we spot our cruise ship m/s Paul Gauguin getting smaller and smaller as we ascend.
Moorea is a volcanic island surrounded by a vibrant coral reef and lagoon system, which protects the island's calm bay waters from the adjacent ocean. You can see all the features from the top of Magic Mountain. There is a viewing area at the top, complete with railings. The trail is popular for 4WD and ATV tours, which is how most people summit the trail.
We liked the challenge of the hike. The path is mostly finished road built for trucks and other offroad vehicles, but there are stretches of native muddy tracks near the top, too.
A $2 per person fee for trail maintenance is collected at the start of the trail or left in an honor box.
Moorea features a lot of peaks, caves, waterfalls, lava tubes and other natural wonders on the island, providing outdoors enthusiasts a wonderland of adventure. We can't wait to return for more.
We liked the challenge of the hike. The path is mostly finished road built for trucks and other offroad vehicles, but there are stretches of native muddy tracks near the top, too.
A $2 per person fee for trail maintenance is collected at the start of the trail or left in an honor box.
Moorea features a lot of peaks, caves, waterfalls, lava tubes and other natural wonders on the island, providing outdoors enthusiasts a wonderland of adventure. We can't wait to return for more.
Setting up the tripod for another scenic pic.
Sharing the trail with ATVs.
La ora na. Remember, always travel happy! Cheers!
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