After a cosy cabin getaway in Twizel, it has now been a straight up mission of mine to find the beautiful and unique stays in the south island of New Zealand. Mostly recently and only 20 minutes from my home, I found the best accommodation in Methven, well close to Methven, Red Cottages Staveley.
Situated right off the main road, it is the perfect accommodation when you’re exploring the Methven area or if you’re on route for a road trip around the south island. Hosts, Myriam and Nigel have put a lot of work and love into creating this incredibly special spot for guests. Staying at Red Cottages is all about relaxing and enjoying being present in the moment.
There are two cottages on the property a little less than 100 m apart but still have their privacy. The decor and theme of each cottage is quite different from each other but both have the most relaxing and peaceful vibe with stunning mountain views.
The ‘Alford’ cottage
The Alford cottage is the original historic cottage from when the shearer’s came in and is nothing but rustic and romantic. It has a ‘kiwi’ feel to it with wooden floors and a restored fireplace giving it a warm and relaxed vibe.
The details like the old boots outside and tied up skates hanging on the wall play to the area of working farms, getting up in the hills and even skating as Staveley was historically a prime place for ice skating. The cottage has two tubs out back with the most incredible views looking up to Mt Alford.
The ‘Somers’ cottage
The ‘Somers’ cottage, which is the one I stayed in, has a more modern and chic feel to it. The high ceiling and double side fireplace gives the room a wonderful luxurious feeling.
Myriam designed this cabin herself and I have to say, if I could live in it, I would. The wood on the walls, antlers and the colour palette is right up my alley. It is a spacious and like the Alford cottage has twin tubs with perfect views of Mt Somers. I especially loved staying in the cabin being able to stare up at my once nemesis mountain watching the light settle in behind. If you remember a while back, I had hiked up Mt Somers after a long time of talking myself out of it!
Although the cottages are pretty close to a main town, it’s pretty impressive how well you can see the stars. Watching them twinkle amongst a mountain backdrop is pretty spectacular! I of course watched them from the tub!
You don’t have to worry about going out or bringing your own breakfast which I especially love. I’m always up for a simple continental type breaky! The fridge and cupboard are stocked with the go to’s like cereal, muesli, yogurt and eggs that come from their free range chickens.
Wool shed movie theatre
This is such a cool part of Red Cottages Staveley. As if star gazing from an outdoor tub wasn’t enough, Myriam and Nigel have created a cozy spot to hunker down for movie night in an old wool shed! How cool is that! The movie plays through a screen projector. There are couches to sit on, twinkly lights, popcorn in the microwave, a stack of DVDs and another area for games and socializing. Again, in an old wool shed! The corrugated iron has original English stamps which means it is about 100 years old! I just thought this was the most clever and coolest idea ever! Exactly something you’d find in New Zealand!
It was overcast the morning I was there, sadly no show for sunrise so I made a cup of tea and treated myself to a bath, again! Fully equipped with bubbles. I tell ya, what a way to start the day! I don’t think it is possible to leave without feeling refreshed and just plain happy. So if you’re looking for accommodation in Methven I highly recommend Red Cottages Staveley!
What to do in the area?
I love this area of New Zealand! I may be a little biased because I live here, but there is plenty to do especially outside while in the area!
You can head to the Hakatere area for some lake fun, explore at one of Peter Jackson’s filming sites- Mt Sunday or challenge yourself for a day hike. The Rakaia Gorge is a great place to go jet boating and walk along the river track. For some mountain fun, Mt Hutt is the place to go skiing/boarding or mountain biking in the summer. The foothills have great walking tracks and a lovely picnic area.
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