Location & Activities

Located on five acres of coastal hillside sloping down to the water’s edge, you can relax and enjoy stunning views and nature’s beauty from the dining table, the daybed nook, or from your pillow!

Watch the myriad of seabirds and native birds before you or go down to our private beach and dig your toes into the sand and gather New Zealand Clams for your kai. A private path winds to a grassy knoll by the water’s edge and a peaceful sandy cove. Wander along the beach shore and enjoy the clear waters that swirl by.

The Otago Peninsula has a wealth of activities that we are very proud to support. Experience the native wildlife with rare Yellow-Eyed Penguins and Huka Sea Lions on a local eco-tour and also visit the only mainland Royal Albatross colony in the world, 20 minutes away. Watch Little Blue Penguins come to shore at Sunset with Pukekura Little Blue Penguin experience. Take pleasure in returning to the Retreat after a day exploring the Peninsula’s coastal landscape and wildlife. Relax around the warmth of the fire and let the ambience of this environment surround you.

Swim the inlet below the Retreat or body surf nearby beach breaks.

Walk the loop to the remote Victory Beach, approximately 2 hours through the wind cast back duens past the wave worn rock feature, The Pyramids.

Visit Allan’s Beach with a surf break at the south end and wildlife on the rocky outcrops.

Royal Albatross Centre at Taiaroa Head

Sandymount Track with a 220m chasm and collapsed sea cave known as Lover’s Leap; and other Otago Peninsula walking tracks.

Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s Only castle.

Glenfalloch Woodland Garden cafe and restaurant.

Sandfly Bay walking track. Otago’s largest sand dune. You might be able to glimpse the rare yeallow-eyed penguin from the hides scattered in the dunes above the beach.

Otago Peninsula Museum

Local cafes and restaurants

1908 Cafe in Portobello

Portobello Hotel

Cove Cafe

Be sure to look out for the occasional visit by dolphins, elephant seals, leopard seals and the rare Southern Right Whale.

For more about attractions and places to visit in the area, go to dunedinnz.com or portobello.org.nz