After getting caught in the rain for 3 days whilst camping and hiking in the Marlborough sounds, my general attitude to another night in the rain was bleak. In a wet tent with wet socks a quick browse of booking.com pointing me towards the Jugglers Rest, booked that morning and made my way to Picton to get myself a hot shower, dried off and a roof over my head. So happy I chose the Jugglers Rest to stay at!
On arrival I was welcomed by the gorgeous scent of the flowers in the garden, and made my way around the side of the building guided by the easily spotted ‘OFFICE’ sign. Greeted by Nikki the owner/manager she showed me around the hostel and amenities and showed me to my large double room which was truly fantastic, layers of sheets on the bed AND an electric blanket for warmth, there was even a sign suggesting if you were cold that more blankets can be accommodated by request. Reading lights for night time book worms and plenty of sockets for charging devices. What else does a weary traveller need?
Nikki is a fantastic host and was so easy to talk to, informative and welcoming into what is essentially her own home (she also lives on the property with Omi the super friendly cat!). Two 4 ring hobs in the kitchen, lots of storage and a fridge/freezer for your personal food, two great showers/bathrooms to choose from and a lovely bath tub with candles and bubbles to use for small fee. I was offered a fantastic breakfast compromising of homemade bread and jams made straight from the garden for $8, well worth it in my eyes. Tea’s and coffees are complimentary, there is also a ‘community kitchen’ supremely stocked with herbs and spices for guests to use. The Jams are also available for sale if you want to take some away with you! There’s also rubs and creams which are all eco friendly and super skin friendly available for purchase. Produce from the garden is available for a small donation which is fantastic.
I’ve fallen in love with The Jugglers Rest and it truly felt like a home away from home. I even extended my stay (speak to Nikki about booking direct - cheaper and better for both!) I was planning to do some more hiking but thankfully Nikki showed me the rain radar for the coming week and I quickly backtracked! Spent a few nights reading and playing guitar by the wood-burner, discussing many a subject with both other guests and Nikki herself. I couldn’t have wished for a better place to recuperate myself after 2 weeks on the road. A great place for like-minded folks ;) will recommend this place to anyone I meet who’s travelling to NZ as it was truly the single best place I’ve stayed during my 9 months travelling the country!