Checking in: The Farm House at Cape Kidnappers

Of all the experiences I have whilst travelling for my work, I’m absolutely certain that a countryside getaway remains my favourite of all. Being able to spend more time outdoors and away for cities is as good as it gets in my books! During my time in New Zealand I spent the great majority of my time in lodges, with a countryside escape at The Farm at Cape Kidnappers being an unforgettable escape from reality.

The Farm House at Cape Kidnappers

If you love golf or luxurious getaways, chances are you’ve already heard about Cape Kidnappers on the East Coast of New Zealand’s North Island. Home to one of the best golf courses in the world, the lodge has a world renowned reputation (though, in all honesty, I didn’t at all visit for the golf course!)

The lodge itself is idyllically set on a hillside, overlooking the ocean and cliffs of Cape Kidnappers. Each room is made to feel like a private oasis, which was warmly welcomed so I could spend some time on my deck overlooking the sweeping ocean views and enjoying the natural bliss that so is New Zealand’s coastline.

Farm House Lodging

I visited the Farm House during low season and was pleasantly surprised to have the whole place to myself. It was mid-week and despite my being the only visitor in house, there were still plenty of staff buzzing around the property up-keeping the gardens and readying the property for more visitors on the weekend.

My room was a short walk away from the main lodge, which provided a quiet retreat to soak up the sunshine and do a whole lot of nothing (and by nothing I mean read books, food magazines, and listen to the bird life I was surrounded by).

Hotel rooms don’t really surprise or excite me too much nowadays, as after the last few years living out of a suitcase I have become a little too familiar with living out of a suitcase (happily, of course!) However this was one rare exception. The interior styling by  Linda Bedell created a warm, inviting space that I quite honestly wanted to pack away in my suitcase and take off with! I’m sure the images are proof enough.

Room rates include a full a la carte breakfast and gourmet tasting menu for dinner, as well as unlimited snacks in your complimentary mini bar to get you through the day. The food is absolutely flawless and is a highlight of the stay, showcasing local produce with many of the ingredients sourced directly from the farm’s veggie garden!

Around the Property

Around the lodge you’ll find plenty of activities on offer to keep you busy if you’re more of an active traveller like myself, who can only spend so much time reading in the winter sunshine.

The main attraction for guests is the 18-hole Golf Course, currently listed as #16 in the world. Even if you don’t play golf I would suggest hopping on a golf cart and taking a look, as the course is set in an idyllic location right on the edge of the property, overlooking the ocean and catching the sun all day.

The lodge also features a heated Swimming Pool and Jacuzzi with a beautiful view over some of the property (keeping in mind the property is 6,000 acres in total!)

6,000 Acres of Oasis

As mentioned, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers is set on 6,000 acres of land, featuring everything from steep cliff faces to ocean access. Behind the lodge you will find an incredible wildlife sanctuary, where the owner is taking measures to protect threatened species of birds, assisted by volunteers of the project.

Inside your room you will find a trail map, with marked trails around the property that will take you to different, unique experiences. Some trails lead to the cliffs, some to the ocean, and some will take you around the farm to spot the local wildlife and cattle (after all, this is still a working farm!)

With thanks to Cape Kidnappers for welcoming me to experience this gorgeous getaway! All opinions and oodles of photos are my own!