The Black Swan lodge in Rotorua is only 5 minutes drive from the city centre, and yet you could be miles from anywhere. This 8 bedroom 5-star boutique property is set on one acre of beautiful grounds, complete with a heated pool, sauna, direct access to the lake, helicopter pad and private jetty. Arthur the host invited myself and my family down for a stay last weekend, what a treat!  As soon as you pull down the drive of the lodge you feel relaxed. The suites are very spacious (we had a pool room suite) and have a fire in the room for the winter nights, and a private veranda for summer evenings. The bathrooms are also very generously sized, with double sinks, large shower with rain forest head and a stone soaker bath. The other room options are lake front located at the front of the lodge with direct views over the lake and lake view, these have a view of the lake and private veranda with out side fires – so you can sit with your glass of wine soaking up the view long into the evening. The rooms all have mini bars with complimentary non-alcoholic drinks, and snacks, as well as the usual tea and coffee.

On our first evening we ate in Rotorua at the aptly named “Eat street” which has plenty of options to suit everyone. On On the Saturday night Arthur invited us to dine in the lodge. The dining room is on the second floor with sweeping views over the lake, and a warm fire. The food is pacific fusion and all dietary requirements can be catered for (I know as we had a vegetarian and a fussy teenager). The chef was very accommodating and took me into the kitchen to discuss options offering separate meals for the teen and pre-teen, whilst the adults chose from the evening menu. My entre of pate was delicious and equally so was the salmon my husband chose. Mains were duck or lamb; we picked one of each both were fantastic, and we were far too full for desert, even if we were tempted by the lemon tart!

The Black Swan has an onsite spa which in house therapist available to lodge guests at all times (bookings recommended) as well as patrons from other hotels and locals. During my stay at the lodge I enjoyed a decadent one hour facial and they also offer massage and other treatments. The Black Swan Boutique Lodge is perfect for honeymooners, or family breaks, it’s ideal location is close enough to town and all Rotorua attractions yet far enough away to give you a sense of seclusion and relaxation. The lake access, private wharf and helicopter pad are ideal for float plane, helicopters or boats to collect you directly from the lodge for your fishing trip, white island exclusion and more.

If you are interested in incorporating The Black Swan into your itinerary please contact the Luxury Adventures team.