6 Tips for an Ultra-Relaxing Holiday Close to Home

Sometimes, planning a holiday can feel like juggling work, whānau, and everyday commitments. Between finding the cheapest flights, coordinating accommodation, and deciding what to do every hour of every day, it’s easy to end up more frazzled than before you left. But this doesn’t always have to be the case. In fact, a relaxing break doesn’t need to involve international flights or over-the-top planning.

If you’re living in New Zealand and want to recharge without the fuss, there’s no need to go far. From a serene lake to a quiet coastal town, the country is packed with natural wonders and peaceful pockets that make it remarkably easy to unwind.

So if you’re craving a getaway that’s all about slowing down and not overthinking every minute of your day, this guide is for you. Here are some practical, low-stress tips to help you plan an ultra-relaxing holiday—one that doesn’t require a passport, just your jandals and a laid-back attitude.

1. Stay Where the Views Are – Let Nature Set the Mood

If you’re aiming to unplug and unwind, your choice of accommodation can make or break the mood. Staying near natural beauty automatically adds a layer of calm to your holiday. Imagine waking up to birdsong and morning mist rather than traffic or construction. It’s like your own personal nature documentary, minus David Attenborough’s narration (though no one’s stopping you from doing the voiceover yourself).

In the North Island, finding a fantastic accommodation Taupo visitors can appreciate is refreshingly easy. You’ll discover lakeside chalets and cosy cabins, many of which are family-friendly, and some even welcome pets, so you can be sure the entire whānau gets to enjoy a proper, relaxing break.

2. Choose Smaller Towns to Embrace a Slower Pace

When planning a relaxing getaway, it’s tempting to default to the biggest name on the map. However, the real magic often lies just off the beaten track. Smaller towns in the North Island are where time seems to stretch, locals wave at strangers, and queues are a thing of the imagination. Towns like Taupō, Raglan, Whakatāne, or Martinborough, for instance, offer everything from charming cafés to geothermal wonders without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds you’ll find in bigger centres.

3. Avoid Overpacking the Itinerary

One of the quickest ways to ruin a potentially relaxing holiday is by trying to do everything at once. It’s tempting, especially when you feel like you “should” make the most of every minute. But there’s a huge difference between making memories and sprinting through a checklist. A jam-packed itinerary can leave you feeling more worn out than before you left home.

Instead, embrace a slower pace. Allow for plenty of downtime in your schedule. Start your day with a long breakfast, followed by a peaceful walk around the lake or through a native bush trail. If you feel like visiting some scenic spot, great—but if not, that’s fine too. Spontaneity is a luxury we rarely allow ourselves, so take advantage of the chance to follow your mood. If you fancy an afternoon nap, take one. If you stumble upon a charming bookshop or artisan market, explore it at your own pace.

4. Keep an Eye on Road Updates

Nothing puts a damper on your well-laid plans quite like an unexpected road closure or a sudden change in weather. Whether you’re on a classic Kiwi roadie or cruising the State Highways, it’s worth checking travel and weather alerts before you hit the road. Services like Waka Kotahi NZTA for road updates and MetService for weather forecasts can help you avoid major delays or disappointing detours.

However, flexibility is your best friend. Even if plans change due to the odd downpour or a landslip closing a hiking track, it’s no reason to panic. Use it as an opportunity to try something else—perhaps a rainy-day soak in a geothermal hot pool or a leisurely lunch in town while the storm passes. The key is to roll with it. After all, some of the best travel stories begin with, “Well, we didn’t plan to end up here, but…”

5. Pack Light

If your suitcase requires its own seat on the shuttle, you’re doing too much. For a relaxing, local getaway, there’s no need to bring your entire wardrobe. A few comfy outfits, some warm layers for those cooler evenings, your trusty trainers, and togs for the hot pools should cover most bases.

Packing light also simplifies your holiday. Fewer choices mean less stress. Plus, leaving room in your bag means you’ll have space for local treats, whether it’s a block of Whittaker’s chocolate, a Central Otago pinot noir, or a cosy wool throw from a nearby artisan market.

6. Give Your Brain a Breather

We live in a world where we’re always “on,” and our phones have become an extension of our nervous systems. Holidays are a chance to gently peel away from constant notifications and give your mind a proper rest. You don’t have to go full digital detox (unless you want to), but try setting some boundaries. It can be no work emails, no social media rabbit holes, and switching off for a bit—maybe just checking the cricket scores or the weather.

Instead, use your device intentionally. Take scenic photos, find a good walking track, or search for the best local bakery. Otherwise, look up from your phone and let your senses take over.

At the end of the day, the most relaxing holidays are the ones where you allow yourself to simply be. No pressure to see everything, no expectations to come back with a dazzling slideshow of every sight in your itinerary. Instead, you return home feeling refreshed and maybe even a little more connected to the land and people around you. So take it slow. Sometimes, the best way to get away is not to go far at all, but to go deep into rest, right where you are.

Ready to unwind? Discover your perfect lakeside escape at The Retreat, Taupō. Book a lakeside chalet at The Retreat today.

Why a Lakeside Chalet Getaway in New Zealand Is the Ultimate Retreat for Holistic Rejuvenation

For many, a holiday is more than just an escape from city life—it’s a chance to reconnect with yourself. But beyond a change of pace and scenery, a holiday is also the best time to reconnect with yourself. Immersing yourself in peace, quiet, and the beauty of nature can be an incredibly healing experience. In today’s world of constant stimulation and unending distractions, your mind and spirit surely need a break, too.

The perfect setting for your holistic wellness retreat is one that offers a serene environment and a worry-free holiday experience. A lakeside chalet vacation is a great way to bask in nature’s wonders while enjoying the unique experience and environment.

Here’s a list of reasons to book a lakeside chalet for your holistic rejuvenation getaway.

Harness the Healing Power of Nature

The stunning views and the lush environment of a lakeside chalet provide an impeccable backdrop for finding calm and healing. The Retreat offers a lakeside chalet Taupo visitors and locals can easily visit for their next wellness getaway. Not only do we have beautiful views of the lake, but also luxuriant greenery to soothe the senses.

Indeed, the breathtaking surroundings of a lakeside chalet help you reconnect with nature while reaping the benefits of holistic rejuvenation. It’s been proven time and again that nature has a sway on our inner being that is unequaled by the latest health gadgets or spa treatments.

Thus, you can expect your stay at the lakeside chalet to be one of renewal and self-discovery. You can feel your troubles fading away and your mind becoming at ease, ready to embark on your holistic healing journey.

Enjoy Comfort and Luxury while You Recharge

A rejuvenating retreat means leaving the hassles of the daily grind behind, even just for a moment. Your lakeside chalet offers all the essentials, plus thoughtful extras. There’s no need to worry about a thing.

Here at The Retreat, you can luxuriate in spacious bedrooms, relax in a private lounge, or sun yourself at the outdoor deck. You have free rein over where to take a break after a long walk amidst the trees or a tour of the surrounding town. If you prefer the water, you can take a dip in a heated pool where you can relish a relaxing time alone or with company. There’s also a wood burning fire to keep you cosy during chilly nights. Last but certainly not least, you can take advantage of your private access to the lake where you can quietly marvel at nature’s grandeur while practising gratitude and reflecting on life.

Refresh Your Body and Mind with Wellness Activities

A lakeside retreat is a perfect time and place to explore wellness practices and holistic health approaches. From yoga, meditation, and other mindfulness techniques, these activities will have you physically engaged and mentally still all at once.

A lakeside chalet accommodation is also a great venue for workshops where you can learn and understand more about yourself and others. Making an effort and investing in self-discovery and personal growth are significant steps in your path to holistic wellness, which will also reflect on how you coexist with others.

After the day’s session, you can wind down by taking in the magnificent surroundings with a walk around the property or a good soak in a spa pool.

Foster Better Connection with Yourself and Others

It’s a challenge to find genuine connections in today’s busy world that’s hyperconnected and always online. Take this time of rest and rejuvenation to create bonds and build community. A lakeside chalet vacation might just be the fitting venue to get to know family, friends, or colleagues at a deeper level. The peaceful, calming environment makes a great site for meaningful conversations and shared memories that will remain with you long after your vacation.

Ready to experience lakeside tranquillity? Discover our chalets in Taupō — eight thoughtfully designed stays that blend comfort with nature to help you slow down and reconnect.

Of course, we can’t forget that the most important connection is the one we have with ourselves. So, take time during your getaway to pause for self-reflection and to fill your mind and spirit with positive energy from nature and those around you.

True wellness begins with the desire to become a better version of oneself, with the end of being a mindful and empathetic individual who supports others.

When you go to a lakeside chalet, you have the chance to experience relaxation that transcends physical health, the type that helps you bring kindness, clarity, and purpose back with you once you return to the rigours of everyday life. Beyond photographs and memories of your wonderful lakeside chalet stay, you can face the world again feeling inspired and renewed.

If you’re ready for your own lakeside vacation, then book a chalet here at The Retreat today. We have a total of 8 chalets to choose from, where you can bask in ultimate comfort to refresh your mind, body, and soul.

6 Benefits of a Lakeside Chalet Holiday in New Zealand

Spending time with family and friends is always special, but a truly unforgettable holiday needs both great company and a stunning location. Just imagine being surrounded by those you hold dear, while enjoying the beauty of nature in a peaceful environment. Sounds like the perfect holiday escape!

A holiday is also an opportunity to spend quiet time away from the daily hustle or to try something new. That’s why it’s a great idea to spend your holiday in a lakeside chalet, a calming retreat that’s both close to nature and modern conveniences. A vacation in a lakeside chalet can indeed be both a relaxing and revitalising experience for everyone, combining serene views with comforting amenities. Consider these other benefits of staying in a lakeside chalet for your next holiday:

Stunning Location

Staying at a lakeside chalet promises breathtaking scenery that you won’t find in just any vacation home or hotel. The peaceful landscape and the calming environment are surely a welcome break from the busy city life. There is really nothing like enjoying the beautiful lakeside view while taking in the tranquil sights and soothing sounds all around.

Staying in a chalet Taupo roads converge at means you’re just minutes from the township, local cafés, and must-see spots like Huka Falls and the Great Lake Pathway.

Perfect for Families and Groups

Vacationing with family and friends can be challenging, especially when finding lodging that can accommodate several guests. This isn’t an issue with The Retreat, as our lakeside chalets provide ample space for families and groups. For couples or small families of three or four, all that extra space means utmost freedom and comfort.

Additionally, staying in a chalet provides better privacy than sharing a hotel room or studio-type quarters, with individual bedrooms separated from common areas.

Pet-Friendly Stays

Going on vacation doesn’t have to mean leaving your beloved pets behind. With a lakeside chalet, pets can run and play, enjoying nature as you create new memories with them. A lakeside chalet also has plenty of space for your pet to explore and lots of nature to experience.

Luxurious Comfort

Aside from the stunning views it offers, a lakeside chalet also lets you indulge in holiday pleasures with sufficient facilities for bonding and relaxation. You don’t need to choose between relishing the outdoors or getting cosy in your chalet; having private access to the lake means you can delight in nature at your own comfort and leisure. Meanwhile, a heated indoor pool and a spa-pool mean you can take a relaxing dip without worrying if the water’s too cold. To complete the lakeside chalet experience, your family and friends can take turns at the barbecue, making memories as you share food and exchange stories.

Top-Notch Amenities

Celebrating love, family, and friendship at a lakeside chalet is even better with top-quality amenities on hand. Make your holiday unforgettable with a special meal prepared in a full-size kitchen, or share an intimate meal with loved ones in the cosy dining area. If you love spectacular sights, how about sharing stories over cups of coffee or glasses of wine on the outdoor deck, while you enjoy the lakeside views and each other’s company? Perhaps a romantic moment or a quiet evening by the wood-burning fire can make this one vacation you’ll remember forever!

Of course, while an “unplugged” vacation is ideal, lakeside chalets also consider your need for modern conveniences. Thus, you’ll find your accommodations furnished with a large-screen TV, high-speed internet, air-conditioning, heating, and more.

Great Value for Money

Vacationing in a lakeside chalet might sound like a luxury, but in reality, it might be a more cost-effective option, especially if you’re taking a holiday with family or as a large group. For one, a single chalet can accommodate several guests, offering versatility and privacy without the need to book multiple venues to fit everyone in your group.

A chalet is also equipped with everything from basic amenities to convenient and luxurious extras to ensure the utmost comfort and to provide the best experience possible. Apart from homey lodging, you can make the most out of your stay through adventures and activities that allow you to appreciate the fresh air and natural environment you won’t get from most other vacations. It’s a great way to make the most of your holiday budget without skimping on comfort.

What can make a vacation more memorable than an extraordinary experience at a lakeside chalet, complete with both creature comforts and beautiful scenery? A lakeside chalet vacation is not just an escape from the grind, it’s a retreat that brings you closer to your loved ones and gives you time and space to recover while basking in the grandeur of nature.

Ready for your own vacation in a lakeside chalet? The Retreat Taupo is here, ready to welcome you with a special experience. It’s your home away from home—close to nature, with all the comforts you love. Ready to experience lakeside luxury comfort? Book your stay at The Retreat Taupō now and start planning your perfect Kiwi holiday.

5 Tips for Planning a Romantic Wedding Anniversary Retreat in New Zealand

What do you imagine when thinking about your wedding anniversary? Maybe you’re thinking of a cosy chalet with a gorgeous view and dining with your lifelong partner as you watch the sunset. Whatever it may be, we all have our own ideas of the perfect romantic getaway to celebrate this milestone in life. That said, daydreaming about the trip is the easy part; planning and making it happen is much more daunting. Indeed, arranging the details of your romantic retreat can feel overwhelming—but don’t fret! Here are some tips and ideas to get started so that you can have the wedding anniversary of your dreams.

1. Reconnect With Nature

Perhaps the most important decision you have to make for an anniversary trip is your destination. While some might say “anywhere is fine, as long as I’m with the love of my life,” it’s definitely worth the effort to put more thought into where you’ll celebrate.

With how hectic real life can be, why not take your wedding anniversary as an opportunity to be one with nature again? You can look for a chalet Taupo locals and tourists highly recommend, such as The Retreat. This lakeside retreat has a perfect view of Lake Taupo as soon as you step out of your chalet. Combine that with the tall trees scattered throughout the home, the lush, quiet environment, and a perfectly clear sky, and you’ve got a recipe for a picturesque holiday with your spouse. You can admire the beauty that Mother Nature has to offer, all while celebrating the love you’ve shared over the years.

2. Bring Your Kids and Pets

Some couples prefer to go on their anniversary retreat alone, with no one but each other as company. Other couples would rather bring along their kids and share their happiness and love to celebrate. If you and your spouse fall into the latter category, The Retreat is an ideal destination. Our chalets can accommodate up to seven guests, so every member of the family can bask in ultimate comfort. We’re also pet-friendly, so there’s no need to hire a pet sitter while you go on your holiday.

3. Splurge on Accommodations

Your anniversary is the perfect time to treat yourself and your spouse. No matter what your itinerary will be for your romantic trip, you and your partner deserve to return to the perfect home at the end of each day. When looking for accommodations, pay close attention to the amenities and other benefits offered. Some luxury options have indoor pools, outdoor decks with a barbecue, and on-site staff ready to assist you at all times. Whether you’re looking for the perfect staycation chalet where you can be cosy and wrapped up in each other all day or just a plush, comfortable home to return to after a day filled with activities, a luxurious accommodation can make all the difference to your romantic retreat.

4. Disconnect From The Outside World

Let’s face it: routines can get tiring. So many people rush through meeting work deadlines and taking care of their families that they don’t have as much time to spend with their partners. If this sounds like a familiar scenario to you, then your romantic anniversary getaway is your chance to take a break from your everyday routine.

When planning for your anniversary trip, commit to disconnecting from the outside world entirely. Consider switching off your devices for a while, or setting aside time each day to be truly present with your partner and tell your loved ones to only contact you in case of emergencies. This gets rid of any typical distractions and lets you properly connect with your partner for the entire trip.

5. Add New Experiences to the Itinerary

The best way to make your special trip memorable is to pack your itinerary with new and unique experiences to try with your partner. Taste the local cuisine, explore your destination’s rich history and culture, and take in the gorgeous sights and fresh air that nature has to offer, all while savouring every moment with your life partner. You can even step out of your comfort zones together by trying out a new and intimidating activity. It may get your heart racing, but it’ll certainly make your anniversary trip one to remember for years to come.

Celebrate Your Love Story With a Romantic Lakeside Getaway

If you and your partner are looking for the perfect cosy chalet away from home, The Retreat is your ideal getaway. Nestled at the banks of Lake Taupo and only a five-minute drive from Taupo township, you and your other half can rediscover the beauty of nature as you celebrate an important milestone in your shared life together. Book your comfortable lakeside chalet for a memorable anniversary

How to Plan a Relaxing Unplugged Holiday in Taupō

With so much of our daily life in Aotearoa spent online, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by constant notifications and updates. Taking a step back from screens with an “unplugged” holiday offers a refreshing remedy, one that encourages genuine relaxation, meaningful connection, and a deeper appreciation of your surroundings.

If you’re looking for the perfect spot for that escape, look no further than Taupo. Nestled beside New Zealand’s largest lake and surrounded by volcanic landscapes, Taupo offers natural hot springs, tranquil hiking trails, and adventure activities such as kayaking to the Mine Bay Māori rock carvings and trout fishing, all of which encourage full immersion in the outdoors. You can enhance the experience even further by booking a chalet Taupo visitors highly recommend like the ones here at The Retreat, where you can truly soak in the area’s breathtaking beauty.

Planning your own unplugged getaway soon? We’ve put together some helpful tips to ensure you have a comfortable and unforgettable experience.

1. Book Comfortable Accommodation

The right accommodation is vital to ensuring a relaxing unplugged holiday. Make sure to choose a place that offers not only comfort but also a strong connection to nature. In Taupo, you’ll find plenty of options, but chalets stand out for their unique tranquillity, stunning views, and easy access to outdoor activities. Opting for one of The Retreat’s lakeside chalets provides the ideal setting to unwind and disconnect from the digital world, allowing you to fully embrace the serenity of your surroundings.

By planning ahead and booking the ideal spot, you’ll ensure your stay is as restful as possible. A peaceful, comfortable place to return to after a day of exploring will certainly make your getaway even more enjoyable.

2. Research Outdoor Activities in Advance

A key aspect of an unplugged holiday is spending time outdoors, and Taupo offers plenty of opportunities to do just that. Take the time to plan activities that allow you to fully immerse yourself in nature, whether it’s hiking in Tongariro National Park, soaking in geothermal hot springs, or fishing in Lake Taupo. Plan these activities in advance so you can spend more time relaxing and less time deciding what to do next.

3. Set Clear Boundaries for Screen Time

To make the most of your unplugged holiday, it’s important to set clear boundaries around your screen time. Before your trip, decide how often you’ll check your devices. You might also want to inform friends, family, or colleagues that you’ll be offline for the duration of your stay. Let them know that you’ll be generally inaccessible and only contact you in case of an emergency.

Having these boundaries in place will help you resist the temptation to check your phone constantly. This allows you to focus more on your surroundings and the people around you, making your vacation even more meaningful.

4. Look Into Local Wellness and Food Experiences

Taupō offers a range of wellness experiences to help you fully unwind—whatever ‘relaxation’ means to you.. Do you love getting pampered in a spa, indulging in good food, or perhaps both? Taupo has something that will nourish both your body and mind during your holiday. As mentioned, it’s best to plan these activities ahead so you don’t have to decide on the spot and feel pressured to make a choice.

5. Pack Mindfully for Your Trip

Packing mindfully is another essential part of a successful unplugged holiday. Since you’ll likely spend most of your time outdoors, think about what will help you feel comfortable and connected to nature. Bring along clothing suited to the weather and your planned activities, a good book for quiet moments, and perhaps a journal to reflect on your experiences.

Also, when you pack with intention, you’re less likely to forget anything, which means less worry, less stress, and more relaxation.

6. Plan for Downtime and Flexibility

While it’s tempting to fill your itinerary with activities, it’s just as important to plan for downtime. Over-scheduling can quickly become stressful, so leave space for rest and unstructured moments. It’s all up to you what to do in these moments: read by the lake, enjoy a quiet walk with no set destination, or even do nothing at all. Spending time to simply be present can make your holiday far more restorative.

Flexibility is just as vital. Some of the most memorable moments happen when you set the schedule aside and embrace the slower pace of life. Giving yourself room to breathe helps ensure your Taupo holiday remains relaxing and enjoyable from start to finish.

By thoughtfully planning your unplugged holiday, you’ll set the stage for a truly rejuvenating escape from the city rush or the daily grind. Taupo is the ideal place to disconnect and recharge, offering natural beauty and a peaceful atmosphere that invites you to slow down. To make the most of your visit, consider staying at The Retreat. Our lakeside chalets combine comfort, seclusion, and stunning surroundings, providing the perfect base to relax and unwind. Get in touch today to enquire about bookings and start planning your tranquil escape.

7 Self-Care Ideas for a Genuinely Relaxing Taupō Holiday

When was the last time you came back from a holiday actually feeling rested—like after a quiet weekend at the bach? Not just with a hundred new photos and a suitcase full of laundry, but properly recharged—body, mind, and soul. The truth is, too many getaways are planned like military operations: early check-ins, packed schedules, and barely a moment to sit still.

A relaxing holiday isn’t built on endless notifications and back-to-back activities. It starts by slowing down and choosing a space that invites you to breathe easier. It’s no wonder the kind of accommodation Taupo visitors usually go to offers more than just a place to sleep—it’s about the full experience of ease and comfort. That’s exactly what we’ve created at The Retreat, where peaceful chalets, lakeside views, and a pet-friendly setting make it easier to truly unwind.

If you’re wondering how to truly make the most of your next getaway, here are a few self-care ideas worth bringing along for the ride.

Unplug from Tech and Plug into Nature

You don’t need to go full caveman and toss your phone in the lake, but a little digital distance can do wonders for your mental reset. Between endless notifications, doomscrolling, and inbox guilt, your brain deserves a break. Instead of reaching for your screen first thing, step outside and let your senses wake up with the morning air. At The Retreat, it’s easy to swap screen time for green time. The twittering birds do a better job than any playlist, and the lake certainly doesn’t need a filter.

Leave your devices in a drawer, take a stroll along the water, or just sit quietly under the trees. It’s not about strict rules, it’s about giving your mind some breathing room. Trust us, your group chat will survive a few hours without updates (and you’ll return feeling far more human).

Indulge in Slow Mornings

There’s something magical about waking up with nowhere to be: no alarms, no commutes, no plans demanding your attention. A slow morning is your quiet rebellion against the usual race of daily life. Let the light ease into your room, stretch in bed like a very satisfied cat, and drift into the day at your own pace.

Step outside wrapped in something cosy, breathe in the fresh air, and let the surrounding nature be the first thing you properly notice. Maybe you’ll brew a coffee, maybe you’ll just sit with the sunrise. However you spend those first moments, savour the rare gift of moving slowly. After all, holidays aren’t for hurrying.

Book a “Do-Nothing” Afternoon

Why do we treat doing nothing like a guilty pleasure when it’s one of the purest forms of self-care? In a world obsessed with productivity, doing nothing is practically a revolutionary act. Give yourself permission to block off an afternoon with no plans, no goals, and no apologies. Think of it as a meeting with yourself, where the only agenda says: nap, stare at clouds, or invent shapes in the trees.

Find a comfy spot under the sun. Bring a book you might not even open. Then, let time stretch out the way it used to when you were a kid.. If you drift into a nap halfway through a sentence, congratulations—you’re doing it right! The beauty of a do-nothing afternoon is that there’s no wrong way to enjoy it. In fact, the less you try to “achieve,” the better it usually turns out.

Move Your Body Gently

Self-care doesn’t have to come with a sweat towel and a stopwatch. Sometimes, the kindest thing you can do for yourself is to move just enough to feel alive again. Try a slow stroll by the water, stretch out under a shady tree, or roll through a few easy yoga poses without worrying about perfect form.

If you’re travelling with friends or family, turn movement into something joyful: a lazy bike ride, a barefoot walk across the grass, or a lighthearted attempt at tree pose that ends in laughter. It’s not about burning calories or smashing records, but rather giving your body a gentle reminder that it’s made to move, breathe, and feel good. Bonus points if you manage it in your comfiest clothes.

Pamper Yourself with a DIY Spa Day

Who says you need a fancy spa menu to feel pampered? All you need is a little creativity… and maybe a face mask or two. At The Retreat, our peaceful chalets make it easy to turn your space into a private sanctuary. Run a warm bath, slather on a nourishing treatment, or simply lounge around in your fluffiest robe pretending you’re booked out for the day.

Add a few drops of essential oil to the shower, light a candle (safely!), or give yourself a leisurely foot massage while listening to the birds. Your self-care doesn’t have to be picture-perfect. What matters is that you create tiny rituals that make you feel looked after. You deserve every moment of it.

Reconnect Over Good Food

Few things bring people together faster than good food, and sometimes, the kindest thing you can do for yourself is to slow down and savour it. Whether you whip up a casual breakfast, fire up a classic Kiwi BBQ with fresh-caught fish or simply share a grazing platter, eating together can turn an ordinary moment into a small act of self-care.

You don’t even need fancy recipes or perfectly folded napkins. A picnic on the deck, a sunset dinner with a view, or even a lazy brunch in your pyjamas will do nicely. Nourishing your body and sharing laughter with others are simple but powerful ways to recharge.

Let Pets Join the Holiday Vibes

Nothing says relaxation like seeing your dog’s ears flap wildly in the breeze or your cat claim a sun-warmed patch of floor as royal territory. Pets are naturals at living in the moment, and bringing them along for the holiday can make your self-care time even richer.

At The Retreat, we welcome your four-legged family members with open arms (and maybe a few belly rubs). Take a lakeside stroll together, share a quiet afternoon on the deck, or simply let your pet’s joy remind you how simple happiness can be. Slowing down isn’t just good for humans, it’s good for animals too. Plus, cuddles are proven to boost moods. Ready to unwind? Discover our peaceful chalets at The Retreat.

A truly relaxing holiday isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about tuning in to what you need, whether that’s stillness, fresh air, or a long nap beside someone who purrs. However you define self-care, let it guide you. And if you’re looking for a place where unwinding feels effortless, we’d love to welcome you to The Retreat. We’ll have the lake, the peace, and the pet-friendly vibes ready and waiting. Ready to relax lakeside? Book your stay at The Retreat and let the unwinding begin.