Pia Knarston | 24 August 2020
The Lindis is the perfect place and lodge for a luxury escape in New Zealand from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The idyllic setting of the luxury accommodation invites the guests to unwind and relax. During my visit I noticed the stillness and it reminded me of my time in Antarctica. The modern, sophisticated luxury and the kiwi hospitality is the best combination for a unique stay in the stunning Ahuriri Valley in the South Island of New Zealand.
There are three suggested drives on how to get to The Lindis. Each of them is beautiful and invites to stay along the way and make your journey a bit longer.
Travel from Christchurch:
Start your trip in Christchurch and your drive will take you through Geraldine and Lake Tekapo, both places are great for an overnight or lunch stop (depends on how much time you have). Enjoy the scenic ride along the shores of Lake Pukaki (you may see the majestic Aoraki Mt Cook – another great place for a few days to stop) and on to Omarama, this is the last place to fill up with petrol. After about 10min drive (17km) you turn onto Birchwood Road, a gravel road. For the next 15km, ca. 25-30min, you are driving on gravel road to your left and right you will see Merino sheep and some cattle.
View of Aoraki Mt Cook from the shores of Lake Pukaki.
Travel from Queenstown:
Start your trip in Queenstown which is the fastest way to get to The Lindis. Your drive will take you first through the Kawarau gorge (you might catch a glimpse or try a bungy jump of the historic bridge?) and on to Cromwell, enjoy the views of Lake Dunstan as you drive along the lake to Tarras, a great stop for a coffee and also your last place to fill up with petrol and good cellphone coverage. Your drive will take you over the dramatic Lindis Pass, this alpine area of tall, tussock-covered mountains is beautiful. Once you have reached the summit, well more of a saddle, drive for ca. 15km and then you will reach Birchwood Road, where your drive will take you to the Ahuriri Conservation Park and The Lindis.
Drive along Lake Dunstan in Central Otago.
Travel from Dunedin:
Start the trip in Dunedin and drive along SH1, I suggest stopping at Moeraki and admire the large, spherical boulders. If you feel like a bite to eat, stop at Fleurs Place nearby. The next place you may wish to stop is Oamaru, famous for historical buildings, penguin colonies and the Steampunk museum. Just after Oamaru follow the SH83 through the Waitaki Valley. If you have time, Elephant Rocks is another good place to stop. Make your way to Omarama where you join the SH8 and after ca. 18km you take a left into Birchwood Road until you reach the gate to The Lindis on the right.
Moeraki Boulders, best to visit at low tide!
Almost there, you can see The Lindis gate on the right side in the distance.
You can choose between three different suite/pod types.
The Master Suite, with a gorgeous, luxurious bathtub and stunning views. It also features indoor and outdoor seating areas and a double-sided gas fireplace. The lodge has two of these suites and they offer the highest comfort of luxury.
The Lodge Suite with the floor to ceiling windows offer uninterrupted views of the Ahuriri valley. Private indoor and outdoor areas and the gas fireplace will invite you to relax in luxury. The three lodge suites are also located in the main building.
The three Pods are located within easy walking distance to the main lodge but completely hidden away, hence offer you the ultimate privacy. I loved the compactness and the luxury of the pod. All the modern conveniences are offered, you can fill up the outdoor bath tub by turning on a switch inside the pod and the double glazed mirrored glass walls on three sides transports you in the midst of the everchanging environment.
The Lindis is located in the Ahuriri Valley on Ben Avon Station, occupying over 6000 acres of land. You will see grazing angus bulls and merino sheep from the neighbouring working farm. The rugged mountain country, wetlands, tussock lands, beech forest and river invite to explore by foot, vehicle, bike or horse.
There is so much to do. Staying for two nights will give you an introduction to the lodge and its activities. Stay for three days or more and you can really enjoy the luxury lodge in depth.
Horse riding
The stables are a 5-minute drive away and staff will happily take you there. A variety of horse-riding options are offered. This is a great place for a beginner as well, as a variety of riding options are offered.
Hiking, guided farm tours and e-biking
What better way to explore the region by foot or bike? You can do some self-guided walks at different levels. Or take the bike to explore. To learn more about the farm I recommend the farm tour, you will enjoy the scenery and stories.
Gliding
Ever dreamed of gliding? The ultimate gliding experience in the world’s best soaring environment is from The Lindis, right at your doorstep! If the weather allows flights around Mt Cook or even Milford Sound are possible.
Fly Fishing
From December until April this is Fly Fishing paradise, right at your footstep. Just wander down to the Ahuriri River and you find some of the best stretches of water for fly fishing in the world. Don’t worry if you are a beginner, the fishing guide will teach you how to tie lures and take you to some of the best secret spots.
And then there is The Lindis by night! Relax in the hot tub with a glass of wine in your hand and get ready for star gazing. The clear sky reserve offers views of the milky way like you have never seen before.
Sadly, the day will come when you have to leave this amazing luxury accommodation in the midst of stunning scenery of New Zealand.
The gate will open to let you out … I hope to be back again sometime!
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