Summary:
Welcome to The Birch, a cozy 3-bedroom retreat in the beautiful Lake Tekapo area. Perfect for families, friends, or couples, this getaway offers comfort and stunning natural scenery. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Alpine Vista promises an unforgettable stay. Book now to start making special memories with your loved ones.
The Space:
Spacious Living Area:
Our lodge features an open-plan living area with comfy seating, a flat-screen TV, and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. It's the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring.
Fully Equipped Kitchen:
Prepare meals in the well-equipped kitchen with modern appliances, cookware, and utensils. The dining area has plenty of space for family meals or entertaining guests.
Cozy Bedrooms:
This modern home has three generous bedrooms, accommodating up to six guests comfortably. Each bedroom features plush bedding and ample storage space. Sleep under the stars—experience a stunning galaxy right from your bed with our high-quality immersive projectors.
Modern Bathroom:
Enjoy the convenience of a contemporary bathroom with a walk-in shower, fresh towels, and complimentary toiletries.
Outdoor Amenities:
Take advantage of the outdoor space for picnics, barbecues, or simply lounging in the sun.
Convenient Location:
Located in the heart of Lake Tekapo, our lodge is a short drive from local attractions, shops, and restaurants. Explore the famous Church of the Good Shepherd, Tekapo Springs, and the stunning Mt. John Observatory.
You’ll receive a trusted welcome link after booking with all property details, access codes, Wi-Fi, and easy instructions for your stay. Please take a moment to complete it — it helps us prepare everything for your arrival.
Guest Access:
During your stay, you'll have exclusive access to all the amenities and spaces within the property.
The Neighborhood:
Lake Tekapo: A Slice of Paradise
Lake Tekapo is famous for its stunning turquoise waters, alpine scenery, and clear night skies. Our lodge is perfectly situated to offer you the best of this charming town and its natural beauty.
Scenic Beauty and Outdoor Activities
Nestled in the Mackenzie Basin, Lake Tekapo is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, including the Southern Alps and rolling hills. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of activities to enjoy, from hiking and mountain biking to fishing and boating. Don’t miss Tekapo Springs, where you can relax in hot pools, enjoy a spa treatment, or skate on the outdoor rink.
Stargazing and Astronomy
Lake Tekapo is part of the UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, making it one of the best places in the world for stargazing. Visit the Mt. John Observatory for an unforgettable experience under the stars. Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or simply love gazing at the night sky, the clarity and brilliance of the stars here will leave you in awe.
Local Attractions
Church of the Good Shepherd: This iconic stone church, set against the backdrop of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps, is a must-visit. It’s a popular spot for photography and a symbol of the area’s serene beauty.
Lake Tekapo Village: Just a short drive from the lodge, the village offers a selection of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, savor local cuisine, or pick up souvenirs to remember your trip.
Tekapo Springs: Indulge in relaxation and fun at Tekapo Springs, featuring hot pools, a day spa, and various recreational activities.
Dining and Shopping
The local dining scene in Lake Tekapo is diverse, offering everything from cozy cafes to fine dining. Enjoy fresh, local produce and savor the flavors of New Zealand cuisine. For those who prefer to cook at the lodge, there are grocery stores nearby where you can find all the essentials.
Transportation
Lake Tekapo is easily accessible by car, with well-maintained roads connecting it to major cities like Christchurch and Queenstown. Free parking is available at the lodge for your convenience. For those without a car, local shuttle services and tours can help you explore the area.
Community and Safety
Lake Tekapo is known for its friendly and welcoming community. The area is safe and family-friendly, making it an ideal destination for travelers of all ages. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, you'll feel right at home in this picturesque neighborhood.
Discover the magic of Lake Tekapo and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquil ambiance of this unique destination. Your stay at Big Birch promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Getting Around:
By Car:
Having a car is the most convenient way to explore Lake Tekapo and the surrounding areas. The lodge offers free on-site parking for guests. Driving around Lake Tekapo is a scenic experience, with well-maintained roads connecting you to major attractions and nearby towns. The main highway, State Highway 8, runs through Lake Tekapo, providing easy access to Christchurch (approximately 3 hours) and Queenstown (approximately 3.5 hours).
Bicycle Rentals:
For those who enjoy cycling, there are local bike rental shops in Lake Tekapo. Biking is a great way to explore the town and its beautiful surroundings at a leisurely pace. The terrain around Lake Tekapo is suitable for both casual riders and more adventurous cyclists.
Walking:
The compact size of Lake Tekapo makes it easy to explore on foot. Many of the local attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance from the lodge. Walking trails around the lake and through the village offer stunning views and a peaceful way to enjoy the area.
Shuttle Services:
There are several shuttle services available in Lake Tekapo that offer transportation to and from major cities, as well as tours of the local area. These shuttles are a convenient option if you prefer not to drive or want to join guided tours to learn more about the region’s history and natural beauty.
Public Transportation:
While public transportation options are limited in Lake Tekapo, there are intercity buses that connect the town to other parts of New Zealand. Companies like InterCity and GreatSights offer regular services to Christchurch, Queenstown, and other destinations.
Tour Operators:
For a more curated experience, consider booking tours with local operators. They offer a variety of tours, including stargazing tours, scenic flights, and day trips to nearby attractions. These tours often include transportation, making it easy to explore without the need for a car.
Air Travel:
The nearest major airport is in Christchurch, about a 3-hour drive from Lake Tekapo. Queenstown Airport is another option, approximately 3.5 hours away by car. Both airports offer car rental services, making it easy to pick up a vehicle upon arrival and drive to Lake Tekapo.
With these transportation options, getting around Lake Tekapo and discovering its many attractions is convenient and enjoyable. Whether you prefer the freedom of driving, the ease of shuttles, or the adventure of cycling, you’ll find a mode of transport that suits your needs.
Other Things to Note:
You’ll receive a trusted welcome link after booking with all property details, access codes, Wi-Fi, and easy instructions for your stay. Please take a moment to complete it — it helps us prepare everything for your arrival.
Special Offers and Amenities
-A sauna is available for your use. Please note this is a shared amenity among Ohana guests, so feel free to enjoy it whenever it is available. If you plan to use it, please let us know ahead of time so we can prepare it and inform our team on the ground.
- Portacot and high chair are available upon request for a small fee of $25.
- Hot Springs Passes: Purchase a hot pool pass from us and enjoy a second one absolutely free.
- Laundry Services: In-house laundry services are available for a small fee.
- EV charger is located a short walk from your booked unit.
-Treat yourself to an in house massage during your Tekapo stay. Exclusive to Ohana guests, this is an easy way to relax without leaving your room. Sessions are $90 per hour and available on request, with limited daily time slots so booking ahead is recommended.
Supermarket and a variety of restaurants are conveniently located just across the road. The lake and church are only a 2-minute walk from Sealy Street in Lake Tekapo.
Interaction with Guests:
While I won't be available in person, I'm committed to ensuring that your stay is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. You can reach out to me through Airbnb chat from 6AM - 12MN, Mondays through Sundays.
