Eagles Nest Review: A Sublime Sanctuary of Luxury in New Zealand’s Bay of Islands

Nestled atop a private peninsula overlooking the shimmering expanse of New Zealand’s Bay of Islands, Eagles Nest offers an extraordinary escape that redefines the meaning of exclusivity. As we arrived at this secluded estate on the North Island, the sense of privacy and understated opulence was immediately palpable. Spread across 75 acres of lush, subtropical native bush, the property’s five architecturally distinct villas present a rare blend of contemporary design and immersive natural beauty.

Our Arrival and First Impressions

Driving up the winding hill to the estate, the air grew fresher and the views more expansive with every turn. The villas, each uniquely designed, are perched to capture sweeping panoramas of the bay and its more than 140 islands. From the moment we stepped inside, it was clear that Eagles Nest is not just a place to stay but a carefully curated experience—one that invites us to slow down and savor the landscape through vast floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive outdoor terraces.

The Villas: Privacy and Elegance in Perfect Harmony

Every detail feels intentional. The villas are studies in minimalist elegance, featuring clean lines, muted tones, and vast windows that dissolve the boundary between indoors and out.

• Rahimoana Villa: A four-bedroom masterpiece with a private beach, sauna, gym, and even a Porsche Cayenne Turbo at our disposal.

• First Light Villa: More intimate, with a sunken Jacuzzi and dual bathrooms, perfect for honeymooners.

• Shared Touches: All villas (except First Light) have heated infinity pools, fireplaces, and fully stocked kitchens.

  
  

We spent time in two contrasting villas to appreciate the range of experiences on offer. The smallest, First Light, is an intimate one-bedroom sanctuary ideal for couples. Its calming palette and private Jacuzzi set the tone for quiet reflection and romance. In contrast, Rahimoana Villa, the estate’s flagship, astounded us with its grandeur: four ensuite bedrooms, a 25-meter heated infinity pool, a private gym, sauna, and even a home cinema. The sliding glass walls dissolve the boundary between indoors and out, while a private beach beckons just steps away.

Highlights of Our Stay

Unrivaled Privacy

Each villa is cocooned in verdant foliage, ensuring a sense of seclusion that is increasingly rare in luxury travel. We felt like we had our own little paradise, far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Tailored Service

A dedicated concierge anticipated our every need discreetly, arranging everything from a personal trainer session to guided nature walks. Their attention to detail made our stay feel truly special.

Outdoor Living

Heated infinity pools and private hot tubs offered perfect spots to unwind while soaking in the bay’s ever-changing hues. We spent hours lounging by the pool, cocktail in hand, soaking up the sun.

Vegan Culinary Options

Though Eagles Nest does not have a traditional restaurant, we enjoyed bespoke in-villa dining prepared by local chefs specializing in plant-based cuisine, highlighting the region’s fresh, seasonal produce. Each meal was a delightful experience, showcasing the best of local flavors.

Activities

Beyond lounging, we explored the estate’s private beaches, cycled on mountain bikes provided at the villa, and admired native wildlife with binoculars supplied upon request. Every day was a new adventure, filled with exploration and discovery.

Considerations for Future Guests

While the absence of a central restaurant or spa might surprise some, the estate’s philosophy centers on personalized, in-villa experiences rather than communal spaces. The hillside location also means a short but steep walk to the charming village of Russell, which offers additional dining and cultural options. Certain services, such as personal training or massage treatments, require advance booking and come at an extra cost.

The Essence of Luxury

At Eagles Nest, luxury is not just about opulence; it’s about the experience. The phrase luxury travel redefined perfectly encapsulates our time here. Every moment felt tailored to our desires, creating a unique tapestry of memories that will last a lifetime.

Final Thoughts

Eagles Nest is a rare jewel in New Zealand’s luxury hospitality landscape. It offers a refined retreat where the natural world and modern elegance coexist effortlessly. By the end of our stay, we’d settled into the rhythm of the place—mornings spent swimming in the pool, afternoons exploring hidden beaches, evenings with wine by the fire. Eagles Nest doesn’t just accommodate you; it adapts to you.

For those who want a hotel that feels like a private estate, where every detail is tailored and the world feels far away, this is it. We’re already plotting our return.