Recharge - mind, body and soul

By Dawn Pickens, Bay of Plenty Times.

The importance of Health and Well-being is becoming more prevalent as our lives get busier. Escaping to walk empty beaches, run forest tracks and delight in good food and wine is why The Coromandel is becoming a more popular year round destination for those needing to recharge. Find out why The Coromandel was good for Dawn’s soul here

Day 1 – Close to home

Leaving work and arriving at Otesha Falls an hour later is the perfect way to get into holiday mode quickly.  Not far from Waihi, Otesha Falls embodies the spirit of the town with a heart of gold.

Day 2 – good for your soul traveller

The next day Dawn and Chelsea kicked off the good times with a run to Homunga Bay which links to Orokawa Bay walk. As if one run wasn’t enough they also ventured up Wentworth Valley in Whangamata when heading north to Whitianga. After so much exercise it’s only fair that one be rewarded with a spa at The Lost Spring and dinner at their on-site restaurant. After an evening of relaxation it was time to bunk down in style at Coghill Cottage, the beautifully restored Heritage NZ listed 1883 Miners cottage, in the heart of Whitianga.

Day 3 – Run and discover

Another day on the run. This time to New Chum Beach, remember to check the tide times as there is an estuary crossing (best to go at low tide). When driving the windy roads take the opportunity to pull over at the rest areas for that photo opportunity. An afternoon train ride through native bush on the famous Driving Creek Railway in Coromandel Town was a chance to rest the legs. The Pepper Tree Restaurant is an all-time favourite for foodies, the perfect prequel to a restful night at Hush Boutique Accommodation.

Day4 – Thames Coast to home

The Thames Coast Highway is an attraction in itself, as is the Waiomu Café – a compulsory stop when passing by.

Stay

Otesha Falls - Luxury B&B. Countryside, 10 minutes from Waihi.

Coghill Cottage - Luxury Miners Cottage. Whitianga township

Hush Boutique Accommodation – for couples, families or groups. Coromandel Town

Play

Homunga and Orokawa Bay Walk, Waihi and Waihi Beach

Wentworth Valley Walk, Whangamata

The Lost Spring, Whitianga

New Chum Beach, Whangapoua

Driving Creek Railway, Coromandel Town

Dine

The Lost Spring, Whitianga

Pepper Tree Restaurant, Coromandel Town

Waiomu Café, Thames Coast

Traveller’s Tip

Consider visiting outside of the peak season for a truly good for your soul experience. April – November offers a quieter lifestyle the locals love. Also plan for at least three nights if you’re doing a road trip around the Peninsula, so you can actually stop to explore instead of spending the whole time on the road.

Coghill Cottage, Whitianga

Running New Chum Beach

Time out to enjoy the views