A superb beachside lodge in a national park, with a focus on wellness, gastronomy and tranquillity. There are only three suites and it’s a very intimate owner-operated property, in a quite staggering location.
Stay at Split Apple Retreat
Green and turquoise colours, swirling out to sea. Rugged cliffs and golden beaches, silently awaiting the carefree. You’re in Abel Tasman National Park, on New Zealand’s tropical coastline, a setting for both adventure and relaxation. Split Apple Retreat reflects your mood. Settle into a dedicated wellness program. Or use it as a base to kayak and hike the coastline. Relax on the two beaches below or in the saltwater infinity pool, or spend a day exploring islands offshore. Make your stay how you want it to be, in a quite glorious beachside location.
Location
Abel Tasman National Park is on the north coast of the South Island and has some of the country’s best weather. This area feels like the exotic South Pacific, closer to Fiji than the South Island glaciers. Split Apple Retreat has a prime beachside location, about one hour by road from the nearest town and airport of Nelson.
Rooms
This is a proudly owner-made and owner-operated retreat, with a distinctly Asian vibe. Hit a gong to summon the owners, wear slippers around the hotel, find Buddha paintings on the walls and lots of Asian artefacts. The three suites are well appointed, with sea views and private decks being the highlight.
Who is it for
Not recommended for families and only children over 12 are permitted to stay. It’s a very intimate place, more like staying in the owner’s home than a traditional hotel. The advantages of this are personalised programs, culinary menus and interesting conversations. However, some will find this retreat lacks the essential amenities they demand.
Facilities & activities
For such a small property the Japanese spa is surprisingly large. The healthy evening tasting menus are a reason to stay here, but the big winner is the location. This is a base to explore one of the country’s best national parks. Walk across the cliffs to remote beaches, kayak to islands that partially disappear at high tide, find your sense of adventure in the turquoise waters
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