While in New Zealand, hubs and I embarked on a remarkable getaway at the Solitaire Lodge in Rotorua. Having done a bit of “glamping” in the deserts of Dubai and the wilderness of South Africa, I was intrigued by what we might find in the back and beyond of Mount Tarawera (the latter of which was responsible for one of New Zealand’s largest volcanic eruptions to date).
The result?
Sheer bliss and tranquility. Believe me when I say – such moments of luxury don’t come easily these days, particularly when you’re toting around a little one.
We were treated to a rare blend of world-class luxe and that good-old downhome taste of “Kiwiana" culture, or what hubby proudly dubs the “New Zealand Way” (as demonstrated by both Wayne the owner and Graham the General Manager). Amazing farm-to-table cuisine paired with personalized wine recommendations made by their in-house sommelier? Check. Fantastic panoramic views of the lake and the Tarawera volcano? Check. A pre-breakfast dip in the volcanic thermal pool via the hotel’s private jet boat? Done and done.
All in all, the three days we spent at the lodge felt a bit like a dream that one wakes up from reluctantly. We were utterly besotted when Ingrid, the hotel owner herself, happily offered to look after our little precious bundle while mommy and daddy basked in a private morning thermal dip. Such enchanting experiences don't come around very often, and when they do… you embrace it and never, ever take them for granted. (For the record, the thermal soak felt amazing!).
These days, travel is as much about the ability to relax and let go as it is about the destination, and our fantastic journey at the Solitaire Lodge offered exactly that. We were able to properly unwind from our 28+ hour journey from NYC to Wellington (no small feat when you’re making three back-to-back flights with a five months old! More on that later). On top of it all, we were treated to some of the best company, scenic views, and tasty multi-courses cooking (with a nod to molecular gastronomy of course) we’ve had in ages.
Now that’s a rare treat indeed!!
