Coromandel

This weekend we headed out to the scenic Coromandel Peninsula. Just a couple hours drive from Auckland, this is one of the favorite Kiwi spots for summer holiday. I can see why this is a popular vacation destination- it has all the right qualities: beautiful beaches, great hikes, and just enough commercial civilization to get by. On our drive back to Auckland, Dana and I concluded that this was the most beautiful spot in New Zealand we’ve visited so far (note that there is still much to see). Some of the highlights of our adventures in Coromandel:

Wairua Lodge – This was our home for two nights. It was 12 km outside of town within the central wilderness of the Coromandel. The driveway was 0.9 KM long, and outside of the lodge, there wasn’t anything but forest in the area. It was a former artist escape that the current owners turned into a bed and breakfast. The owners have a great nack for decorating as it had a rustic yet comfortable feel. If you ever find yourself traveling to the Coromandel, you have to stay at Wairua. One of the most affordable, relaxing, and unique places we’ve stayed.

Hot Water Beach – Popular novelty of the area that feels overcrowded, but it's nonetheless a natural wonder. For an 1.5 hour window either side of low tide, you can scope out a spot on the beach and dig yourself a spa. There are hot water thermal springs that run underneath the beach and digging down only a foot or two will get you access to the hot water. However you’ll want to be careful where you position yourself because in some locations it is scalding hot, and in others it’s barely warm. We got there right about low tide and took up a vacated spot with the perfect temperature.

Cathedral Cove – A short hike leads you to this cove with clear (but very cold) water and interesting rock formations. Peaceful destination to relax with a book. Surprisingly wasn’t all that crowded while we were visiting. 

Castle Rock – After driving on dirt roads that were probably better suited to 4 wheel drive vehicles than our sedan, we found the trail for Castle Rock. This might be the highest point in the Coromandel, and if not you feel like that with the 360 degree views at the top. Steep climb and apparently a trail that isn’t used all that often, but worth the journey.

Lost Spring –  Basically an outdoor spa that taps into the hot underwater thermal pools. Large pools among a tropical type setting, and none of the crowds that inhabit Hot Water Beach.

Just booked trips to Wellington (capital of NZ and second biggest city) and the South Island. Check back for the next trip.