Stay

While visitors most often spend their days gazing out to sea, another view is just as awe-inspiring. It's a hidden gem, tucked away behind a grand country homestead with paddocks of fuzzy black sheep and an organic veggie patch. At the back of the multi-bedroom B&B a wooden path leads to a deck jutting out over a valley covered in native bush. It's hard to imagine a better place to relax with a glass of wine, accompanied by a symphony of birdsong and a burbling stream – and it's just one of the many reasons that Lisa and Anthony Uphof first fell in love with the property

8 years ago.

The ex-Aucklanders met on a super yacht in Spain and chased their dream lifestyle all the way to Bream Bay. Together with their two daughters, they welcome guests into their home. There are ocean views from two of the three huge rooms of this storybook-perfect homestead with a sweeping staircase, 4ha of bush and the occasional classical music or theatre performance in the lounge (next to the open fire of course). Guest's exclamations of delight almost drown out the music of the bush – almost – a reaction that never gets old. There are three rooms, all en suite, and breakfast is included. The homestead is within walking distance of the Waipu Coastal Track, and the beach is just down the road. Concert dates can be found on their website.

1034 Cove Road, Langs Beach.

(09) 432 0435, blacksheepfarm.co.nz

Anthony and Lisa Uphof