Eagles Nest, Russell

Nestled on a private peninsula just minutes from Russell in the Bay of Islands, this secluded retreat comprises four truly unique, self-contained villas, each boasting stylish, contemporary accommodation with eclectic but casually elegant interiors.

Set in extensive tropical gardens surrounded by native bush, this 75 acre estate enjoys spectacular views overlooking Tapeka Point and the Bay of Islands with each villa offering privacy and an opportunity to unwind and relax.

At the heart of Eagles Nest, ‘Sacred Space’ is the largest of the villas – with a magnificent two storey glass-roofed living area which encourages sunlight from every aspect – and huge doors which lead out onto an expansive outdoor deck area. This delightfully stylish living space transforms gracefully from relaxed living to formal dining and then into your own private movie theatre at night! ‘Sacred Space’ has four beautifully appointed bedrooms – including the impressive Kingfisher Suite which occupies the entire upstairs and boasts breathtaking views across the bay from every window. This villa shares a 20 metre horizon-edge lap pool with ‘First Light Temple’.

Perched on the hillside overlooking the shared horizon pool and jacuzzi, ‘First Light Temple’ is the ultimate romantic hideaway – a stylish split-level one bedroom villa with floor-to-ceiling glass doors which slide back to allow the ‘outdoors in’. The contemporary double bedroom is located on the mezzanine level with an adjoining glass walled shower and bathroom – both of which enjoy spectacular views across the peninsula to the ocean beyond. Outside, there is a large patio with an outdoor fireplace, should the evening bring a slight chill.

Perfect for up to three couples or a family, ‘Eagle Spirit’ and ‘The Eyrie’ (which were both completed in late 2003) each offer three bedrooms, stylish kitchens, open-plan living and dining areas – and wonderful elevated locations amidst native bush, overlooking the beautiful Bay of Islands. These two villas are equally as elegant and stylish as their counterparts – and have the added advantage of their own private horizon swimming pools.

Each villa benefits from a well-equipped gourmet kitchen – but if cooking is not 'your thing', your hosts can arrange for a local chef from Russell’s renowned Kamakura Restaurant to cater for you on dates and at times to suit you. On arrival, your villa will be stocked with a bottle of French Champagne and plentiful breakfast provisions. If you would like shopping done for you in advance, then this can easily be arranged –all we need is a list of your preferences.

The Eagles Nest estate boasts a myriad of walking tracks leading to private and secluded beaches – and if you insist on being active, the Bay of Islands has plenty to offer – from deep sea and big game fishing to sailing, cruising and swimming with dolphins. Golf at the internationally acclaimed Kauri Cliffs course can also be arranged. Fitness enthusiasts can make use of the estate's mountain bikes - whilst those keen to be pampered can enjoy a private in-villa massage or a range of beauty treatments including facials, manicures, body scrubs and pedicures.

PRICES Prices from £140 per person per night based on 8 people sharing Sacred Space, £185 per person per night based on 2 people sharing First Light Temple or £104 per person per night based on 6 people sharing either Eagle Spirit or The Eyrie. Fly to New Zealand (Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch)  via Los Angeles or Hong Kong on the award winning services of Air New Zealand from only £890 including taxes and fuel surcharges. Please ask your consultant about upgrading to spacious Pacific Premium from only £280 per sector.