The Homestead
The original farm homestead of Grasmere Station remains the heart of Grasmere Lodge.
It was built in 1858, and was essentially a timber slab hut then, built from beech logs hewn on the property. Luckily much of the history has been recorded and preserved.
The two distinctive limestone chimneys at the front of the house date from 1872 when the first bride arrived at the property, and the house was enlarged.
After several owners, David McLeod and his wife Mary took over the farm in 1930, and tales of their hospitality over the next 48 years are still told.
David’s books about his adventures at Grasmere are in the library, and his tradition of welcoming guests is repeated by today’s hosts in the large comfortable lounge, over the cocktail hour before dinner. Doors open out into the garden for al fresco hors d’oeuvres in summer, and large open log fireplaces in the original stone ensure cosiness on colder days.
The five-course gourmet dinner is usually served in this building, and one of the oldest rooms has been turned into the Mountain Spa , offering indulgent pampering and therapeutic massages.
State Highway 73 · Cass · Canterbury · Private Bag 55009 · Christchurch · New Zealand
Telephone +64 3 318 8407 · Fax +64 3 318 8263 · E-Mail Retreat@Grasmere.co.nz
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