SLOW STAYS

Wind your way around the peak of Mt Watkin/Hikaroroa to find Fallow Ridge Retreat, set upon a 1436ha farm in the heart of Middle-Earth country on New Zealand’s South Island. Literally blending into the landscape – the off-grid cabin has an earth and tussock living roof – its design both takes its cues from and relies on the fierce beauty of the epic scenery where native bush and boulder fields abound. Inside the solar-powered cabin, the scent of incense through the minimal but opulent open-plan space sets the scene for serious slowing down. Roughing it this is not; enjoy underfloor heating and central cooling, luscious flax linen, wool blankets on the king bed, an outdoor cedar-wood bath and a ceiling-suspended gas fireplace. Whip up a culinary feast in the slick kitchen (stocked with pantry basics and a small mini-bar) or graze the day away on a platter of local fare. As the morning sun breaks through floor-to-ceiling French doors (with automatic blinds!), nosh on a continental brekkie – including fresh Beanos Bakery pastries and Grid Coffee – before going in search of Otago region adventures.