The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, Matauri Bay

Location

Set amid 6,000 acres of pristine coastal landscape near Matauri Bay in New Zealand's beautiful Bay of Islands, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs enjoys a location unlike any other. Sweeping, 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean and one of the world's greatest golf courses make this Relais & Châteaux property one of the finest in the country.

Accommodation

Accommodation at Kauri Cliffs consists of 22 beautifully appointed suites spread across 11 outlying cottages. Each spacious suite boasts its own private porch, comfortable bedroom and separate lounge area. The luxurious en suite bathrooms feature shower, bathtub and his and hers vanity units. The cottages are set along a tree lined path running north from the main building on the edge of native bush and offer wonderful views across the award-winning golf course and the Pacific Ocean. Suites feature an open gas fireplace along with comforts from rattan armchairs, an ottoman and a super-king bed.

For guests seeking an extra bit of luxury, the stunning, 4,200 square foot Owner's Cottage features a lounge and two bedrooms overlooking the ocean and golf course. The cottage also has its own private infinity pool, outdoor barbecue and cooking facilities for the chef, affording the option of in-house dining.

Dining

Kauri Cliffs offers gourmet a la carte dining in a stylish main dining room or on the lodge's verandahs. As well as a sumptuous evening dinner menu, which aims to showcase the very best of New Zealand's produce, Kauri Cliffs also serves a delicious daily buffet breakfast, formal three-course lunches and wonderful picnics, which are perfect if you're heading out to explore the beautiful surrounding countryside; the property itself has a number of secluded picnic spots with beaches, waterfalls and native bush all within walking distance of the lodge.

Facilities

Overlooking a picturesque fern-fringed stream in the nearby Totara forest, the Kauri Cliffs Spa offers a range of unique therapies and treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate. Each of the treatment rooms opens onto a private patio and stream, with the sounds of running water and the surrounding forest providing the soundtrack. There's also a sauna, spa pool lap pool and fitness centre on site.

If you can drag yourself away from the spa, there's a plethora of attractions and activities both on and off the property, including private beach barbecues, guided bird watching, horse riding, mountain biking, nature walks and fishing.

Golf

One of the highlights of a stay at Kauri Cliffs is the par 72, championship golf course. Set on the cliffs above the Pacific Ocean, this David Harman-designed course has hosted some of the world's best golfers and has been recognised as one of the world's greatest courses, currently ranked 18th by Golf Magazine's World Top 100 Course Ranking Panel. With five different tee positions this superb golf course offers something for all abilities.