When it comes to a relaxed yet vibrant getaway in New Zealand, I can’t recommend staying in one of Russell's holiday homes enough. I’ve stayed in my fair share of hotels and motels around the Bay of Islands, but nothing quite beats the experience of having your own place—a space to call home for however long you’re here. And Russell offers a fantastic range of options.
How I Discovered Holiday Homes in Russell
Let me take you back to my first trip to Russell. I was working in New Zealand at the time, and a weekend off was a welcome treat. I’d heard about Russell’s quaint charm but was keen to escape the noise of the bigger tourist spots. I decided to go with a holiday home rental to give myself that sense of freedom, plus it’s always nice to enjoy the comforts of a home while you’re away. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but when I arrived at my chosen home—a lovely cottage by the water—I realised I’d found my perfect escape.
Why Choose a holiday home in russell?
Russell is an iconic town brimming with history, beautiful coastline, and relaxed atmosphere. Staying in a holiday home allows you to experience this picturesque village the way it was meant to be. Here’s why holiday homes are a top choice for anyone visiting:
- More Space and Privacy: One of the things I noticed straight away was the added space holiday homes offer compared to a traditional hotel room. There’s something liberating about having an entire house (or even a cottage) all to yourself.
- Home-Like Comfort: Holiday homes offer everything you need to live and enjoy your stay as though it were your own. Think about your favourite amenities—kitchens for cooking your meals, spacious living rooms for lounging, even gardens to relax in with a morning coffee.
- Ideal for Families and Groups: If you’re coming to Russell with family or friends, a holiday home is a great option. I often travel with colleagues and staying in a place with several rooms and enough space for everyone allows for privacy yet group comfort.
- The Perfect Location: Russell’s holiday homes are spread across different areas, many offering close proximity to beaches, bush walks, and heritage landmarks. My home was within walking distance of everything I wanted to explore, from the historic church to the beautiful waterfront.
What to Expect from Holiday Homes in Russell
Here’s a sneak peek of what you can expect during your stay in Russell:
- Fully Equipped Kitchens: Perfect for preparing meals from fresh local ingredients. When I stayed, I got to cook up delicious meals with local fish—being able to do this made the stay even more special.
- Outdoor Space: Many homes come with outdoor areas, whether it’s a peaceful garden or a patio overlooking the sea. Waking up in the morning and enjoying breakfast outside is one of the best ways to start the day.
- Modern Conveniences: Expect modern features like high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and laundry facilities to make your stay as comfortable and seamless as possible.
Exploring Russell from Your Holiday Home
You’ll never be short of things to do while staying in Russell. I spent my days hiking through lush trails or hopping on a boat to explore nearby islands, knowing I could return to the quiet comfort of my home each evening.
Things to do in Russell include:
- Take a Scenic Stroll Around the Village: Learn about its colourful history while admiring the scenic colonial architecture.
- Visit the Russell Wharf: It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely walk at sunset, with plenty of cafes along the way to enjoy a drink while watching the view.
- Kayaking in the Bay of Islands: Grab a kayak and take to the water, either exploring Russell itself or venturing out to nearby islands like Motuarohia or Urupukapuka.
Russell’s holiday homes truly offer an ideal spot to unwind, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Bay of Islands, and experience local life in your own peaceful retreat.
