An amazing relaxing getaway. We look forward to staying again!
The place is charming and so relaxing. If you are looking for a romantic stay too you have it here as you have a lot of privacy and everything about the Freefall Hut is unique and memorable.
The selling point for me was the outdoor tub. I was specifically looking for an accommodation in the North Island for an outdoor tub for our surprise getaway. A surprising bonus was the awesome outdoor shower! I don't know if I have ever looked forward to waking up in the morning before just to take a shower. There was also a firepit available which we were itching to use but ran out of time on this trip. The place is set up in an incredibly charming way where each unit such as the bedroom, kitchen, toilet and bathroom is separate from one another which I loved! This place is the most unique and enjoyable place we've ever stayed at.
I really felt that the Freefall Hut had been put together with so much care - you really felt like Julie set up this place so that people could have the most enjoyable relaxing time. Some examples of this are: Epsom salts, bubble bath and romantic candle lanterns all available by the outdoor tub to use. Bodywash by the shower. Tools needed to use the BBQ etc. Before we arrived Julie put the heater on for us in the bedroom which made it very warm and inviting! The place felt complete and that I didn't need to worry about bringing anything myself for a romantic time away.
The location is great. I have stayed in Haumoana once before and if you are coming to check out vineyards in the Hawkes Bay (particularly if you are driving everywhere) I would not stay anywhere else. The reason Haumoana is beautiful is it feels so relaxing knowing it is close to the water and you really feel like you are on holiday rather than staying somewhere inner city. Here you are very close to some great wineries like Elephant Hill, Te Awanga and Clearview (and don't forget brunch at Hygge at Clifton Bay!). It is also short drive to Craggy Range. If you feel like driving to some more popular vineyards like Mission Estate and Church Road it is not far. Personally, I love basing myself in Haumoana when I am in the Hawkes Bay and I would probably stay here at the Freefall Hut if it was available!
Lastly, Julie is amazing! I booked very last minute and she was able to accommodate me. Her communication was fast and told me everything I needed to know. Also, she was very welcoming and even though I booked last minute I didn't feel like it was an issue and Julie was friendly all throughout. When we checked out we were able to bump into Julie as we were driving out. She was so friendly! We had a beautiful, friendly conversation and she really cared that we had an enjoyable stay.
TLDR: I can't recommend this charming and relaxing stay enough! If you check out Hawkes Bay I recommend you base yourself in Haumoana and if you are looking for a place to unwind look no further! You'll have an amazing time at the Freefall Hut.