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Charteris Bay, Canterbury.
Howard and Sarah Buchanan click into holiday mode as soon as they start the 30 minute drive from Christchurch to "Vizcaya", their holiday home in scenic Charteris Bay. "Vizcaya" is perched perfectly on the Waterfront at Charteris Bay with panoramic views north west over Lyttelton Harbour, Quail Island and several bays with the Port Hills in the background.
A House For A Holiday... The holiday house has level road access to a double internal access garage, a new open plan kitchen, large living and dining area and a stone open fireplace. The kitchen, living area and master bedroom, all enjoy the Northwest aspect and uninterrupted sun and views, over the large terrace which has outdoor furniture, gas BBQ and gas patio heater. Recently redecorated throughout, it is equipped with thermowave oven, microwave, walk in pantry, washing machine and dryer, 29" TV, stereo and CD player. Howard and Sarah have set up the place with holiday makers in mind and have a host of books, magazines, games and puzzles. The property is securely fenced, and close to the gradual and sheltered Paradise Beach where there is safe swimming and kayaking. |
With boat shed and ramps just a few steps down from the front lawn and only 100 metres from Paradise Beach, and a public boat ramp, "Vizcaya" is ideally placed for you to enjoy the most sheltered waters of Lyttelton Harbour. Holiday Toys... If you don't bring any water toys of your own, Howard is set up with two kayaks + lifejackets available for guests. There is also fishing gear, a cricket set and a table tennis table for your use. Out & About Take a picnic to the beautiful Orton Bradley Park where you can choose from a variety of picnic and barbeque areas. Explore the bush walks - there are numerous well-marked tracks for walkers of all ages and fitness and you will be able to climb Mt Herbert, the highest point on Banks Peninsula, affording panoramic views of the Peninsula. Visit the cottage and other heritage buildings including the millhouse, the farm museum, the original working water race and old wooden water wheel, or simply enjoy the colourful rhododendron dell which is also suitable for wheelchair access. Children can have fun in the play area with its flying fox. Golf or Tennis Charteris Bay has a Golf Course and tennis courts nearby. For keen mountain bikers, trails are less than 1km away. Eating out Within an easy 10 minutes drive are Diamond Harbour, Purau, Teddington. Visit the "She Café & Restaurant" in Governors Bay or venture 20 minutes to Lyttleton and try "London Street", one of the newest restaurants in Lyttelton, (just opened in February 2006 and has already received rave reviews from Cuisine and the Zest section of The Press).
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Nearby The Port of Lyttelton is 20 minutes drive or a short ferry trip from Diamond harbour and provides access to a range of sightseeing, historic treasures, Victorian cottages, scenic and wildlife cruises, supermarket and road tunnel access to Christchurch city and eastern beaches. Call in at the Information Centre for a guide to walkways around Lyttelton.
A Launch Trip... Spend a fascinating half-day exploring Quail Island. Named after the now extinct native Quail, the island was used as a leprosy colony and a quarantine station by the early European settlers. The Antarctica explorers, Scott and Shackleton, took advantage of the island to train their sled dogs and ponies before setting off on their ill-fated voyages. Today the island is home to native birds including the fantail, kingfisher, silvereye and many sea birds including the rare white flippered little blue penguins. Why not take your lunch for a great family day out?
Rainy Dayz Take the opportunity to explore the scenic Banks Peninsular, or spend a day in Christchurch city with its numerous attractions - The Art Gallery, Museum, City shops & Malls, Theatre etc - the options are endless! Howard and Sarah invite you to Vizcaya... "we are sure you will love Charteris Bay". If you would like to book this bach or find out more, you can view the listing here. |
