Why We Like It:
DoubleTree by Hilton Noumea Ilot Maitre Resort has New Caledonia’s only overwater bungalows and, as it happens, the closest overwater bungalows to Australia.
We think the overwater bungalows and the resort, in general, are the kind of luxury that you might expect from the Hilton chain, and then some.
The setting, a private island nature reserve in Anse Vata Bay, twenty minutes by boat from Noumea, is incredibly idyllic.
Sea life is abundant here, with the island being an important habitat for sea turtles.
DoubleTree by Hilton Noumea Ilot Maitre Resort is family friendly though the majority of those in the overwater bungalows seem to be couples of all ages.
Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation:
Twenty-five in total, their 600 square feet overwater bungalows have a separate lounge with a queen-size sofa bed and a bedroom with king-size bed, so can sleep up to four.
We find the bathrooms lovely, and very spacious, and come with bathtubs, rain showers, and Crabtree and Evelyn bath amenities.
The nice timber framed ceilings give the accommodation a traditional touch but in general, we find them quite modern in style.
They somewhat give the impression of a swanky urban apartment but with lovely ocean views from the windows.
They are also less open to the elements than many overwater bungalows though they do have a nice open terrace with direct access to the water.
The bungalows are also fairly well-spaced apart and offer a good deal of privacy.
As you will see on the booking page here, you have a choice of Standard and Deluxe units.
These are identical except that the Deluxe units are best positioned for open ocean views and those famously beautiful New Caledonia sunsets.
As we might expect, the bungalows are the most expensive option at DoubleTree by Hilton Noumea Ilot Maitre.
Despite that, again as we might expect though, they are the most popular option and so can be booked out well in advance.
On land though we have more bungalows with either views of the gardens or the beach.
The latter are slightly more expensive but are just steps away from the beach.
They are similar in style, and quality to the overwaters but quite a bit smaller at just under 400 square feet.
All are also one-bedroom units but with a queen-size sofa bed in the lounge area.
Again they are divided into deluxe and standard units with the only difference being location – in the case of the beach bungalows for example the Deluxe sit almost right on the beach.
Prices & Availability:
Check out all the details at Booking.com here or at Expedia here.
Resort Facilities & Things to Do:
The resort is a pretty chilled-out place with only one real restaurant, l’Escapade which serves up buffet and a la carte for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
We think the quality is very good and the variety on offer is noteworthy, with a great mixture of French, Asian and International to choose from.
La Boussole is a laid-back beach cafe that serves light snacks and drinks of all kinds in a nicely secluded setting.
The swim-up Sunset Bar is the place for drinking and serves drinks by the pool and you can order standard international food such as burgers, salads, sandwiches, etc all day.
Water sports, and lessons, are available for reasonable prices, including kite surfing, paddle-boarding and jet-skiing. There is a small gym and spa here too.
The private island, Ilot Maitre is truly idyllic as we said, and wildlife is abundant below the water. We think a snorkel directly outside your overwater bungalow is an experience not to be missed.
As well as seeing an incredible array of colorful fish you’ll often have dozens sea turtles swimming happily alongside you.
The island is also very small and very quiet. If you ever grow tired of such things you can always jump on a free water shuttle to and from Noumea (20 minutes away) where you can get a semi-urban fix, and find plenty of restaurants, shops, and bars.
Resort Location:
Located southwest of the mainland on its own private island, Ilot Maitre, Double Tree by Hilton Noumea Ilot Maitre Resort is only accessed by water taxi (20 minutes) from Anse Vata.
Some Guest Reviews:
“The over the water bungalows were amazing, the bed was super comfortable, facilities to hire water sport activities were reasonably priced and staff were friendly…..”
“If you’re looking to spend some time in paradise, this is the place. The water, nature, animals, rooms, food, staff, facilities and activities are all amazing….”
See all the reviews right here
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