As the first of the spring blooms come to an end the air has certainly got a summery feel about it. The pool is warming up and the fishing has started in earnest indicating those nice warm days are on their way. The last of the summer seasonal staff are returning along with a few fresh and eager faces, it is a great time to be at Grasmere.

This year we are excited to be introducing our Owners Cottage. As Oli and Vicki Newbegin who started the lodge have now moved permanently to Christchurch we have taken over the house which they built for themselves not long after the Chalet was finished. It features yet another view unique to Grasmere overlooking the Lodge and up to the Arthur’s Pass National Park and out on to Lake Grasmere.

This Cottage boasts two bedrooms separated by a large lounge area, similar to our River View Cottage, with a sunroom encompassing 180 degrees of view. Both bedrooms enjoy private viewing decks and as with all Grasmere’s bathrooms guests will enjoy a separate shower and bath.

Oli has taken his Porsche collection with him to Christchurch where he is able to drive them more frequently. During the winter we fitted a large fully equipped Gym in the space with brand new equipment found in many good Gyms around the world. Already this is proving to be another fantastic facility.

Also this summer we are delighted to welcome Graeme and some of the team from Backcountry NZ who have been our exclusive fishing guides for many years. Graeme heads up many of our activities including Kayaking, hiking, fishing and casting lessons and trips into the National Park to mention just a few.

Heather and he herd of eleven horses are back on site for riding and Joanna is joined in the Spa by two new therapists. Murray joins us on the Farm and is happy to show people how his sheep dogs work.