Nicky & Cookie

We loved this place! After a long hot and sweaty day’s walk there is nothing better when you are expecting a regular DOC type campsite to find something very special like this. Tony Madsen’s put so much heart and soul, and thoughtful touches into this garden-like camp. Tiered grassy spots with winding paths and solar lights, a hammock for snoozing in, the freshest long drop loo I’ve ever been in. He’s even made a special outdoor solar shower area so you can wash your hair whilst taking in the jaw dropping views high over the glittering blue water. Absolutely gorgeous. It made us wish we’d spent a rest day here rather than in the capital. We had two private beaches to ourselves, and wild Weka birds to play with. ( They love trying to seal your kit! So much fun! ). I had the best night’s sleep there, although that might have had a bit to do with our fresh rum and lemon sunset cocktails! A little dip in the sea and collecting handfuls of fresh mussels for Cookie to cook up in the pot was just amazing. Our first wild-caught food!

If you’re thinking of doing the Queen Charlotte Track, you *must* spend your first night with Tony Madsen. He is such a character! And has the loveliest little dog called Bob :) There were even hand carved walking poles for sale out on the path with an honesty box. You can’t help but love this place!