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Historic Grasmere Lodge is a traditional high country station (ranch) in a magnificently rugged location surrounded by 7000 foot peaks in the mountains 120 kilometres west of Christchurch. Part of the original farmhouse built in 1858 has been incorporated in the 'old' limestone lodge, which has 7 guestrooms, 2 lounges, a bar, pool table and dining rooms seating up to 20. The much newer owner's homestead includes 3 rooms and a large lounge, which can accommodate 20 for a conference, and a private dining room used for lunches. 7 rooms have king or twin beds, 3 are queen-bedded. All have ensuite bathrooms with a spa bath and separate shower.

Grasmere, which in its heyday was the centre of a station covering 43,000 acres, has a long and fascinating history. Its cosy den and library has many books on the history of the area. Several were written by David McLeod whose family owned Grasmere for almost 50 years from 1930. Present owner Oliver Newbegin expanded and transformed the property into a delightful 5 star retreat. It won national tourism awards in 1999 and 2000.

Cattle, deer and Merino sheep are still farmed on the property and guests are welcome to take part in its day-to-day activities. The can laze around the heated outdoor swimming pool, play a game of tennis or boule, or take off on a mountain bike or go kayaking. 5 lakes and 3 rivers provide excellent trout fishing. Next door, Arthur's Pass National Park has plenty of hiking trails. In winter the lodge is white with snow. There are 5 ski fields within easy reach and heli skiing from the property can be arranged. All 3 guests lounges have open log fires.

A stay at Grasmere includes a full country breakfast and a 4-course gourmet dinner daily. Meals feature the best of local produce including salmon and venison, trout and seasonal West Coast whitebait and crayfish. The lodge has a fine cellar of award-winning New Zealand wines.

The lodge is about 90 minutes drive from Christchurch. TranzAlpine Express train services will stop at the edge of the property, where staff will meet guests, by arrangement. Coach transfers can also be organised.

Guest Service Facilities

• Resident hosts
• Breakfast included in rate
• Four-course dinner included in rate
• Guided fishing tours available
• Tour and excursion booking service
• Parking
• video preview

In-room Guest Facilities

• Private spa bath with separate shower
• Heating
• Opening windows
• Choice of King, Queen or twin-bedded rooms

• Direct-dial telephone

• Tennis court
• Croquet lawn
• Boules (petanque)
• Claybird shooting
• Outdoor heated swimming pool
• Mountain bike hire

• One room seating 20 (additional venues available)
• Complimentary basic equipment
• Presentation and audiovisual equipment rental

• MasterCard
• American Express
• Diners Club
  
• Visa

• 2 pm/10 am

• 11075 State Highway 73, Cass, Canterbury, New Zealand

• Christchurch, 120 kilometres, approximately 90 minutes by car