Matagouri Cottage, in Port Levy, is the ideal place for a romantic weekend or just total peaceful relaxation. Port Levy is only an hour’s drive from Christchurch on a sealed road for all but the last kilometre, but is a very different and special place. The cottage sits in an orchard in a quiet valley, surrounded by Banks Peninsula’s ancient hills. Outside the door, a sheltered spa pool and sauna overlook the shaded Owhetoro Stream. The cottage is well and comfortably furnished, packed with character and charm, and offers the perfect spot to unwind and indulge with your loved one, use as a base to explore Port Levy’s and Banks Peninsula’s many delights, or just relax and leave the busy world behind. It stands in the grounds of the old Owhetoro homestead, but hedges and plantings assure you of total privacy. A cosy and colourful space welcomes you in the open plan living room and bedroom. A woodburner fireplace offers toasty ambience for evening relaxation, perhaps curled up with a book from the bookshelves or watching your favourite shows on the smart TV with Freeview. There is a luxurious king-sized bed and ample storage space so you can unpack at once and get into that holiday mood. You can whip up a magical platter or meals in the fully-equipped kitchen. As well as the intimate paved courtyard outside the French doors, ideal for a nibble and a glass or two of wine, there are deckchairs and lawns for sunbathing. You can soak in the spa or sweat in the sauna. After a peaceful night’s rest you will awaken to birdsong and a leisurely morning. This is an enchanted retreat. There is ample carparking in the old cattleyards, and plenty of room to park a boat out on the quiet road. If you want to wander, you could stay close to home and pack a picnic, to be enjoyed at the Port Levy wharf, just five minutes or so away. Port Levy’s favourite swimming beach is a couple of hundred yards beyond. Port Levy has a rich Maori and European history, and an increasing number of public tracks run over the hills’ tussock and bush. The Charteris Bay Golf Club and Orton Bradley Park are just half an hour away. Drive for an hour via Wild Cattle Hill and Pigeon Bay, and you can reach <a href="https://www.bachcare.co.nz/holiday-homes-accommodation/banks-peninsula/akaroa">Akaroa</a> and immerse yourselves in its Gallic vibe and variety of attractions. In another direction, a drive of forty-five minutes over the exciting Western valley road will bring you to Little River, with its vibrant Little River Gallery and Café, and from there to the Peninsula’s wild southern bays. If you want to stock up on supplies or get a quick bite to eat, it is only a twenty minute drive to the nearest shops, cafes and petrol at Diamond Harbour. A tranquil and scenic escape to a peaceful and beautiful world awaits you at Matagouri Cottage.