Farm Luxe

THE FARM AT CAPE KIDNAPPERS

Last weekend I jetted to New Zealand and onto The Farm at Cape kidnappers in Hawkes Bay on the North Island, a one hour flight from Auckland.

Cape Kidnappers was the final resort in the Robertson family luxe lodge empire that I had yet to experience… they also own and operate Kauri Cliffs and Matakauri. Did I save the best for last? I think I did!

WHAT I LOVED

A chic Ridge Suite was my home for the weekend but I actually thought the lead in hill suites would also suit me down to the ground too. More compact than the Ridge Suite… the views out over the sprawling lodge were impressive and if you like to be close to the spa, then these suites are for you.

…it’s an elegant and formal dining adventure and I loved every minute of it.

I wondered if all that daily inclusive Relais & Chateaux awarded food would have been too much. I had no need to worry, the food is exceptional and I found myself looking forward to dining each evening….. and from a different menu each night. Choose from three starters, mains and desserts while you enjoy pre dinner drinks in the lodge (jackets please for the boys!) then head on through to the most stunning glass conservatory dining room, set along the ridge with breathtaking coastal views. The fire is lit to set the scene… it’s an elegant and formal dining adventure and I loved every minute of it. Don’t miss tasting some delicious local wines too… the in-house sommelier is an expert and the lodge’s cellar is world class.

GO NOW

There are plenty of on property activities to fill your days… if you love golf, hiking the outdoors, horse treks… you can even visit the home of the largest most accessible mainland colony of gannets in the world. The Farm at Cape Kidnappers is also an integral part of New Zealand’s Kiwi protection, breeding and rehabilitation programme so you can have an exclusive experience on the Kiwi Discovery Walk. Off property you can go exploring the charming local wineries and quaint nearby villages such as Havelock North… also drop into Black Barn for lunch.

You are going to adore this lodge. It’s farm luxe done exceptionally well.