Multigenerational holidays make for precious memories – and basing yourselves at Falcon Brae is the ultimate treat. You’ll all experience the ultimate in luxury, while enjoying the many family-friendly activities available onsite and in the Nelson Tasman region. Read on for a taster of what we’d recommend you do on a family trip to Nelson and Abel Tasman, whatever the age and stage of your tribe.
Walks galore
Our location is a wilderness wonderland. There’s tracks of all types across the epic 350-acre Falcon Brae property, whether you want views out over the ranges and rivers and a serious workout, or you want an easy stroll to watch birds or visit farm animals (alpacas, goats, sheep, ducks and chickens) – or maybe you want to find that perfect spot to practice yoga or meditation. There are many pointers on the 18 kilometres of tracks directing you back to the villa, so it’s very easy to orient yourself.
Scenic helicopter
With Helicopters Nelson, take the whole family soaring up over Kahurangi National Park and into Golden Bay to land beside the unique pinnacle rock formations on Mt Olympus. This was an incredible location to film the Lord of the Rings movie, where it became “South of Rivendell”. You can also visit the rocky terrain of Mt Owen, with its giant boulders and deep crevasses. Why not take the option to extend the trip out to Farewell Spit where you can see a gannet colony or go on a horse trek along the romantically beautiful beach? At Stonefly/Falcon Brae we can organise the helicopter trip for you.
Swimming pool and spa
Families with children will know you can while away a whole afternoon if there is a swimming pool involved. Relax on Falcon Brae’s large deck space around the gorgeous heated pool and spa, taking in the views while watching the kids play, or going for a dip yourself. There are private hot tubs attached to each suite too.
Wine tasting
If the family unit is all grown up, the wineries around Nelson are renowned and simply must be explored. With an incredible climate for growing grapes of all varieties and a huge number of winemakers (at least 30), it’s one of the best places in the country to visit boutique wineries. Self-drive or jump on a tour to meet the amazing local winemakers, viticulturists, and vineyard owners – and do a little tasting while you’re at it.
Parts of the cycle trail
The Tasman’s Great Taste Trail is a lovely loop through Nelson, Richmond, Wakefield, Motueka and Kaiteriteri. You can do the whole thing in a couple of days, staying overnight along the way or just do small sections as daytrips according to ability and interests. Your cycle can involve gorgeous Kaiteriteri Beach, lush farmland, wine tasting at vineyards, stopping at fruit and ice-cream stalls, visiting artist studios, watching migratory seabirds, passing through a railway tunnel, or experiencing the bustling vibes of the towns in the region. We can help you organise cycle hire if required.
Kayaking in Abel Tasman
The Abel Tasman National Park is one of the most beautiful places to kayak in the whole country. The golden sands, clear turquoise waters, forested beaches, and amazing wildlife is not to be missed. With Waka Abel Tasman you can also incorporate a cultural experience into all this natural beauty – this operator has double-hulled (waka tuarua) or single-hulled outrigger canoes (waka ama). On the trip you’ll be learning waka protocol, and how to work as a team to get the boat moving – great for all ages!
Pic’s Peanut Butter World
Nelson is home to the famous Pic’s peanut butter, and if you’re a fan of this delicious spread, you will love visiting Pic’s Peanut Butter World. You’ll learn all about the peanuts used, and watch them being roasted, grinded and squirted into jars – then see them travelling the conveyor belts to be lidded, labelled and stacked. The kids can try making their own peanut butter, and you can taste other Pic’s products, as well as learn more about the founder’s fascinating journey to take his company to what it is today. Watch the cheeky video promoting the tour here
Berry picking
If you’re lucky enough to be in the area just before Christmas, head out to Tasman Bay Berries in Appleby for berry picking: Tasman Bay Berries is one of the country’s largest boysenberry growers. These juicy berries are packed with nutrients that are good for the brain, lungs and digestion.
Falcon Brae is the perfect place to bring the family whether you’re few or many – we can accommodate up to 10 people. We can’t wait to show you the property and help you explore the region too!