The Camp - Lake Hawea Holiday Park — New zealand uncovered

The holiday park at Lake Hawea is anything but average. Set picture perfect by the side of the lake surrounded by New Zealand bush the site offers a wide range of accommodation options. This isn’t your standard squeeze as many in type of camp. There are heaps of grassy spaces for caravans, tents, campervans with loads of room per site so that you don’t feel as though you are staying on top of your neighbour.

Tent sites are by the lake or by the forest canopy - sunny or shady spots are your choice. Then there are the Belle tents that have their own little village area set up. Ideal for those who want to glamp - an upmarket form of camping when basically you are still sleeping under canvas but have the added draw card and comfort of a bed. More upmarket forms of glamping than even the Belle Tents are on offer including the Safari Tent which is complete with its own private spot by the lake front between the trees. The Little House is a sweet cottage that sits on its own site and offers magnificent views.

The park has a busy shop and office area where you can buy supplies and obtain information on nearby activities - don’t forget that Queenstown, Wanaka, Gibbston Valley and even the West Coast are within driving distance from here. They are also happy to hire out bikes and fishing rods to anyone keen on a bit of adventure. If you wish to spin a line in the water pointers can be given by the staff on the best sports to cast off for the most likely catch. The lake is full of salmon and trout, although catching one might be a whole other challenge.

I stopped for a couple of nights in the Safari Tent. The views across the lake were magnificent and as the sun set, sitting on the deck with a glass of wine was breathtaking.

My two-night stay package included a bottle of wine and chocolate and also some free bike hire. After spending a few hours passing time appreciating the serenity I decided it would be good option to go burn off the chocolate - strolling through the camp site and along the lake front didn’t really do it! So fitted out by reception with a bike and helmet I headed up out of the park following the lake to Hawea township itself. From here I joined the Hawea River Track which took me alongside the gurgling river, through farmland and bush through to Albert Town. The views along the route were stunning with mountain vistas in every direction. Once I reached Albert Town I was in need of a break, to put my feet up and have some refreshment. I found myself the perfect spot at an outside table at local favourite Pembroke Patisserie - nothing can beat pastries after a long bike ride.