Redefining the luxury paradigm
It had been many years (probably close to 10) since I last stayed at Eagles Nest, on the cliff top of Russell in Northland, looking back over the majestic Bay of Islands towards Paihia. Would my experience be as good as it was back then?
Many resorts (worldwide) throw around the superlatives on their website…THE best views, THE best food, THE best staff…you get the picture. I leave many of these places with a taste in my mouth that often disappoints. But not Eagles Nest. It delivers on what it states so succinctly on its website.
With five luxurious villas to choose from Eagles Nest can easily cater for a romantic getaway for two or a larger, fun packed weekend for a group wanting to enjoy each others company, the views, luxury and a dining experience second to none.
I chose The Eyrie and, like the name suggests, it has the best views of the Bay. But with names like Sacred Space, First Light Temple, Eagle Spirit and Rahimoana (Sun God over the Ocean in Maori) you get the picture that whichever accommodation option you choose the facilities will all be spectacular… did I mention the views?
With three massive bedrooms (each with its own separate en-suite) The Eyrie is located high up in the beautiful native bush that surrounds the property. A glass of bubbles in hand (chilled to perfection for my arrival) I decided that a visit to my own private spa pool was in order. Accompanied with some of the fresh fruit basket that was also awaiting my arrival, it was the prefect way to shake off the 3.5 hours drive from Auckland.
All the accommodation at Eagles Nest is beautifully appointed and very contemporary in its layout and design.
With a gourmet kitchen overlooking the private garden (directly on to the bush) it’s easy to forget that just a few short hours ago I was battling to get out of Auckland for the weekend.
Four of the five villas include a private heated infinity-edged swimming pool, and all offer fully equipped kitchens, Ecostore amenities, original artworks, exceptional air-conditioning and spa pool – along with one of the best home theatre systems you’ll ever have the pleasure to “play with”. I soon had my favourite rock selection blasting out across the glorious vista.
If you don’t feel like cooking for yourself Eagles Nest has its own team of resident personal chefs who can prepare your meal for you – crayfish anyone? “Or perhaps you’d prefer the venison tonight sir?”
If you’d prefer to head in to Russell for the night I can highly recommend the food and service that I received at The Duke of Marlborough. I’m glad to say that gone are the days where “The Duke” was a dive. Eagles Nest will also organise a chauffeur for you if this is your dining option.
The next morning…relaxed, rejuvenated and revived from sleeping in what is unadulterated luxury, I discover that my fridge is filled to the gunnels with what I can only describe as one of the best supplied breakfast selections ever… salmon, bacon, eggs, fresh juice, yoghurt and tomatoes – sublime. If this didn’t sustain me for my return journey…nothing would.
Named as “World’s Leading Boutique Villa Resort” at the World Travel Awards Grand Finals for three consecutive years (2013, 14 and 15) Eagles Nest has been rated “somewhere between seven stars and heaven”...I genuinely suspect that it will be a lot less than 10 years before I return here.