FROM THE ROAD: THE CABIN AWAY FROM THE WORLD

Words & Photography By Helen Griffiths

Hidden amongst rolling hills and acres of private farmland, just 50 minutes South of Dunedin, you’ll find the quiet sanctuary of Cascade Creek, an off the grid sanctuary with no cell reception and no wifi. In this modern world, this may sound like a daunting feat, but the feelings soon pass when the night sky turns on its lights.

As we stepped out of the car, stretching after our drive, what struck us first was the quiet. For miles around, the only sounds to be heard are the bleating of sheep, the medley of native bird calls, and the babbling of the river that gives this luxurious retreat its name. We stood for a moment, taking in the fresh air and the complete sense of privacy. With phone signal and internet connection dropping away on the approach into the valley, this really is the place to escape from the world.

The spacious wooden cabin is a clever blending of hosts Dave and Janene’s talents in tourism and woodwork. Everything has been thought of, especially when it comes to sustainability - the retreat runs entirely on solar and hydro power, and is built from a variety of recycled materials. Rooms stay toasty during the colder months thanks to double glazed windows and the glorious open fireplace. The water supply operates on a gravity-fed system, eliminating the need for an electric pump.

Thoughtful details are peppered throughout the cabin, from a basket of woollen slippers to a make-your-own hot chocolate kit, complete with instructions and marshmallows for toasting. Complimentary breakfast supplies are provided - a range of fresh fruit, bread, yoghurt, milk and jam - and a gourmet chef-cooked evening meal is available upon request. There’s even a well-stocked wine rack, which operates on an honesty system. As we unpacked, we tested out the bed and found that it is probably the comfiest thing we have ever laid on. Getting up again was a struggle!

Exploring our peaceful surroundings, we quickly became acquainted with a neighbouring flock of very friendly sheep. Cuddles and pats are encouraged (there’s a bucket for feeding too), and we fell particularly in love with a curly horned fellow -  a ‘Valais Black Nose’ lamb, as our welcome pack informed us. These guys got plenty of attention during our stay, and they’re clearly used to making guests feel welcome.

Patio doors open out onto a wide wooden deck with the most spectacular view of native bushland. It was hard to keep our eyes away from this view for very long, but luckily there are plenty of spots to enjoy it. We basked in the afternoon sun from the plush wicker armchairs, found shade in the tree-covered hammock, and later soaked in the matching pair of outdoor baths, just a short stepping-stone path down from the house. Best enjoyed with a generous glass of red wine, bubble bath (provided) and all the time in the world to watch the stars come out. You might even be joined by a pīwakawaka or two. 

Though perfectly positioned for day trips to the Caitlins and the nearby Nugget Point, we found we’d rather stay and explore the private trails that start right from the cabin. A winding path lead us through ancient bush, along trickling streams and waterfalls, with frequent stops to say hello to tūī, kererū and more sheep. A circular route, we found our way back just as the first drops of rain started to fall. A perfect evening was spent listening to the downpour as we played scrabble by the fire - warming up with the help of hot chocolates, of course.

When the final morning rolled around, we were very reluctant to leave our off-grid paradise. Our hearts, already pretty mushy from this magical stay, melted entirely when a ewe and her two lambs ambled up out of the bush and circled the house, as if to check that all was in order. We bid this little family goodbye as we slowly packed, already dreaming up a return visit.

Book your stay at Cascade Creek Retreat here

Book Helen Griffiths as a photographer here