Cross Hill Lodge & Domes founders Sarah and Richard Burdon developed their distinctive accommodation venture, in its parklike surroundings in The Camp at Lake Hawea, to enable guests to connect with nature and the environment in luxury surroundings.

“We’ve always been passionate about nature and sharing the beauty of the outdoors with those we cross paths with,” says Sarah. “We wanted to create a space that connects people with their surroundings while also enjoying the comforts of high-end accommodation.”

“We are finding that more and more people want to get out into nature and love that they can experience the outdoors from the comforts of their luxury dome.  It seems the Covid-19 pandemic has given people the opportunity to reset and prioritise what they value in their lives. Many are feeling burnt out and overwhelmed finding it necessary to get away and make time for themselves to relax and unwind.”

She says a two to three night stay at Cross Hill gives visitors maximum benefit from their experience and winter being their high season is the perfect time for a getaway with Southern Lakes ski areas and other Central Otago attractions close by.

“Guest have exclusive access to Cross Hill Lodge including an outdoor hot tub, massage room and indoor and outdoor dining.”

“A winter highlight is to sit in the wood-fired hot tub in the evening watching the night sky. We often forget how lucky we are with so little light pollution making Lake Hawea one of the best locations to take in the sky at night.”

“Our domes were designed with this in mind resulting in floor-to-ceiling windows so guests can enjoy the starlit view while tucked up in bed.”

Cross Hill’s approach is that people do not have to sacrifice the comforts of home to stay in the outdoors and their aim has been to make it convenient to be amongst nature – with all domes equipped with gas fires and heat pumps for winter warmth and interiors inspired by the local landscape.

Sarah and Richard have been delighted with the strong response from guests, reinforcing their belief in the impact of nature and the environment on peoples’ wellbeing.

“It’s been amazing to see the positive response to Cross Hill so far. Our goal is to provide a unique and unforgettable experience for our guests and we’re excited to continue doing so for years to come,” says Sarah.

“We’re located in one of the most beautiful parts of the world and we want to share with our guests all that the area has to offer but particularly the benefits of slowing down and enjoying  being amongst nature.”