Chilling Out at Edgewater - Lake Wanaka

Initially Wanaka wasn't on their New Zealand itinerary but this couple are so pleased they included the southern paradise.

Our guests were so pleased that stayed in Lake Wanaka.  This is their story.

We had never heard of Wanaka and it wasn’t on our initial list of places to visit in New Zealand. With a limited amount of time to explore such a spectacular country, we wanted to ensure we visited the highlights.

Wanaka is only one hour’s drive from the alpine resort destination of Queenstown (which was on our list) and we’re so pleased we included this boutique town.

Wanaka is located on Lake Wanaka and so it was totally appropriate that we chose Edgewater for our two night stay in Wanaka. Edgewater is, as the name suggests, right on the edge of the lake.

Our suite opened out directly onto rolling lawns and we couldn’t resist strolling to the edge of the lake on arrival. No roads to cross, no barriers to navigate, no taxis to order. We were right there, looking across this breathtaking landscape, with the green grass between our toes.

New Zealander’s have a reputation for being friendly but without doubt our Wanaka hosts were the friendliest. Everyone had a cheery smile, nothing was too much trouble and we felt totally relaxed when we met Dave, one of the managers, who originally came from San Diego. He’s been living in Wanaka for over 20 years and we were so jealous. You can see he thrives in this paradise.

It was Dave who got us sorted on the mountain bikes that are available for a small hire fee from Edgewater. “You’ve just got to take a ride. It is the best way to explore the area”. And so we did, by setting off on the trail at the front of Edgewater that hugs the lake to the outlet into the Clutha River. It was the fall and the surrounding poplar trees were turning into vibrant hues of orange.

On a slightly more decadent side of the coin, Edgewater arranged an excellent vineyard tour around the region. It was once said that the area was too cold for growing grapes but that myth has been completely debunked as we enjoyed the signature Pinot Noir on more than one occasion!

Wanaka is the perfect way to kick back and relax when on vacation in New Zealand. Not only is it close to Queenstown but Wanaka is on the road to the lush West Coast, home to the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, via the Haast Pass. It was on this road we reluctantly set off and left Edgewater behind.

Make sure you don’t bypass Wanaka. It is likely to be your highlight, as it was ours.