Palmira Lodge

We arrived back in Picton on the evening of the 15th February, and chaos reigned, much of it caused by the disruptions due to Cyclone Gabriella. Earlier in the week, many of the Cook Straits' ferries had been cancelled with huge inconvenience to the commercial and tourism industries, and people had frantically searched around for accommodation in Picton, and the surrounding towns including Blenheim. We had booked for our one night in the Palmira, so we were fortunate. There was still some uncertainty about the ferries running when we woke, after a restless night, so after a brief breakfast in the communal dining room, we packed and hurriedly left for the port. Fortunately we arrived early to find that our ferry was sailing, and after a 2 hours wait, reversed onto the vessel and set off down the exquisite Picton Sound to the open seas beyond. I would certainly stay here again, as I don't think this review does it proper justice.. Robert and Glenda made splendid mine hosts, and we loved the Lodge and its idiosyncrasies, including its wall mounted horses and zebras. Worth every penny.