2017. This acquisition was followed by a period of extensive
renovation to add the high-tech necessary to sustain the 2
new interlocking commercial kitchen areas, a bar and some
500 square meters of dining / event space. The building was
renamed Antipodes, and finally opened to the public in mid
July 2018.
As well as now having an inside restaurant area of circa 100 sq
meters, Antipodes also offers 3 expansive ocean-facing dining
terraces; 2 of which are under cover. Additional to this, the
eastern side of the villa has been converted into one extremely
spacious air-conditioned 2 bedroomed Clifftop Pool Suite,
consisting of some 115 sq meters of romantic luxury leading out
to its’ own very private 200 sq meter courtyard – complete with
its’ own cliff-edge plunge pool looking out over the reef below.
This suite accommodates a maximum of 4 adults, and even has
its’ own mini movie room for those odd days when the tropical
rain decides to reclaim the pacific sky in the afternoon….
The rustic Mediterranean architecture, lush tropical gardens,
endless uninterrupted reef/ocean views and stunning sunsets
enjoyed from this location - make Antipodes arguably the most
romantic place to stay, dine or host a wedding reception. Here,
visitors find it easy to drift into a dream-like zone, where time
seems to slow down to a more comfortable and relaxed pace.
In line with the architecture, the restaurant offers an exciting
Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, showcasing classic fresh
tasting dishes, using local produce from afar, such as Mauke
and Palmerston. The menu has something for everyone – from
the delicate smoked duck salad or the seared scallops in a lime
cointreau sauce, through to the shared boards varying from
Neptune’s [seafood] Trident to the meat lover’s dream - aptly
named the Gladiator’s Feast.
Antipodes is open every evening from 5.30 pm [except
Tuesdays when the staff have their day off…], and is also
open for lunch on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. On
Sunday evenings, Antipodes holds its’ special ‘Sunday Sunset
Sessions’. These are a more laid back ‘end of the week’ affair,
complimented by live entertainment.
A visit to Antipodes will provide an opportunity to enjoy this
wonderful Island Paradise at its very best – surrounded by the
magic of nature, steeped in history and enjoying the hospitality
of this clifftop tribute to the beauty of Rarotonga.
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Escape Magazine • 53