Johanna’s house is incredible spacious and definitely has the ‘wow factor’ when you go in - as mentioned in all other reviews, the view is breathtaking.
The hot tub is a great addition and we were able to use it most nights of our stay.
The nearest supermarket is over 1 hour away, so I would definitely advise to plan ahead and bring supplies with you. We wished we’d done a shop on our way. There’s plenty of space to store groceries. This house is definitely a ‘retreat’ as per it’s name sake.
We loved being surrounded by a farm and watching the lambs and cows - so sweet!
We also loved the pop up van - blue cod blues, which opens 11-7pm Fri to Mon.
Niagara Falls Cafe was lovely. It’s a mum and son business and managing to keep open when those around them are closing. It shuts at 3pm, so I would definitely recommend supporting them and going for lunch/brunch.
The location is remote, but perfect to relax and explore the Catlins. Purakaunui Falls is stunning and I will never forget watching the dolphins swim freely in the waves at Porpoise Bay - incredible.