An escape to Ridge Retreat was very timely for us as a couple. It’s been a challenging season recently for our family so this mini break (while Grandma stayed at home with our kids - thanks Grandma) was a perfect little reset. Pitched as a ‘sanctuary of wellness’, it surely did deliver. Give me a vista of Aotearoa wilderness, accompanied by birdsong and sunsets and I’m on the way to wellness. Add some wine, cheese and banter with my love by the fire pit and I’m there… The cedar barrel sauna with a view tipped me over.
Situated on family land in the Bay of Plenty, Ridge Retreat came to life when owners Lynsay and Jacob saw potential in an unused corner of Jacob’s parents’ kiwifruit orchard. The site is completely private with stunning views stretching over neighbouring orchards and farmland towards the ranges of the Waioeka Gorge. Jacob grew up on the orchard and after some years abroad, has returned to be close to family again. Lynsay, who was living in Tauranga, moved here a couple of years ago and they quickly got to work on the cabin. Jacob’s experience as a construction business owner and Lynsay’s experience managing short term rentals and dabbling in interior design meant the couple were able to pool their knowledge and skills to create this labour of love. Together they designed and built the cabin over a year, finishing the project in late 2024.
Tucked behind a shelter belt of trees, the first glimpse of the cabin emerges through a green arch at the end of a long driveway, hugging the kiwifruit vines. This one bedroom cabin has a kiwi bach kind of feel from the exterior with its board and batten finish. As you enter, you realise it’s a bit more luxe than the average kiwi bach. It is beautifully appointed with wooden finishes and natural tones throughout. The concrete outdoor bathtub and bench tops have been hand crafted by Jacob and add great character and solidity with their inclusion. The full drama of the setting is revealed when you look out from the covered deck towards the view.
It can be a challenge to stop and rest. Many of us don’t do ‘nothing’ well. I would say I’m more of an active relaxer and that’s definitely true of my husband also. Being away from the distraction of projects around the home is key. On most of our little getaways, at some point he can be found noodling on his guitar and scribbling down lyrics to new songs while I drink in the views and frame the experience with my camera. I love the in-between moments. Where quality time organically paves a way for deeper conversations and contemplation.
To get our active fix for the trip we headed to Onekawa Te Mawhai Regional Park, a short drive from our stay. There are multiple short walk options here and we headed to Onekawa Pa which boasts an expansive view of the East Coast, across Ohiwa Beach and north towards Ohope. Various Islands are dotted along the horizon including Whale Island and Whakaari White island which could be seen softly pluming in the distance.
Time out allows us to dream and a setting close to nature fuels gratitude. I am certainly grateful for this little escape.
To book your stay at Ridge Retreat, head to Canopy Camping Escapes.