Karioi Lodge

Raglan is a beautiful and peaceful coastal town, famous for its surf but less visited than you might expect. Karioi Lodge is located in the heart of native bushland, just a few kilometers from the town centre and a short coastal walk away from the beach. It is the perfect retreat for a few days' relaxation away from the usual chaos of the backpackers' world. Part of the Raglan Surfing School, Karioi is essentially an outdoor activity centre, used by various different groups including international students etc. However, dorm accommodation is available as well as self-contained lodges.

The dorms and facilities here are quite basic but perfectly adequate. Often, there is the opportunity to join in a group-meal in the evenings, where fantastic food is available at a reasonable price. BBQ and traditional 'Hangi' meals are a popular choice. Alternatively, a kitchen is availble for self-catering.There is also recreation area/dining room with a pool table, sofas, TV and video library, music system and internet access.

But you wouldn't come here to sit indoors - enjoy the beautiful surroundings by taking a short bush-walk up the nearby hill or through the forest. There is also an extremely popular 'flying fox', offering the perfect chance to relive your childhood! For the best experience ever, have a go at night when it is pitch-black apart from the faint glow of the glow-worms that line the path. Magic! For the more adventurous, there is the chance to take part in a surfing lesson at reasonable cost. Alternatively, the surf school has a small hire-centre on the beach where you can hire surfboards, boogie boards, wetsuits, and fins, and get on and do your own thing. Back at the lodge, there is a ropes course and indoor sports hall (free of charge). There really is a lot to do here while enjoying the great Kiwi Outdoors.

— Avis exclusif de Hostelz.com
August 2004