First of all, it's important to say that there aren't a huge range of accommodation options on Stewart Island. It has a population of 400 (swelled by tourists of course) and as such, there isn't a great deal of choice. Stewart Island Lodge is, in my opinion, one of the best options but it isn't cheap. I'm not going to go into all the details about the Lodge as they're on the Real Journeys (who own and run Stewart Island Lodge) website, but here are a few points that you might find useful.

Rooms are clean and spacious. I'd say that although they are really nice, they're not top drawer luxury. But then, if you're on Stewart Island for a 5-star hotel experience, quite frankly you're in the wrong place! The rooms offer seating areas, good sized bathrooms, terraces and big comfy beds.

Some things to be aware of.... The Lodge is a rectangular building and some rooms share a terrace. You may have to walk past other people's doors/windows in order to get to your room. This might be a lovely opportunity to meet your neighbours and have a natter but if you're someone who prefers more privacy, I'd try and ask for a room at either end of the Lodge. They have terraces that are a bit more private.

The catering arrangement is bed and breakfast. A member of staff is on hand during breakfast and everything is laid out for you to help yourself (it's continental rather than cooked). For us, this was great, but if you want a huge fry-up you're going to be disappointed! Also, it's probably worth mentioning that no one lives at the Lodge, i.e. it's not like the traditional B&B in someone's home, and the only people there overnight are the guests. There's an excellent kitchen for guests to use and everything is on hand if you fancy cooking yourself up a feast at any time of the day or night.

You'll be met at the ferry when you arrive on the island and you'll be driven to Stewart Lodge. You'll instantly be impressed (is that the right word?!!) by the ratio of the incline on the hill up to the Lodge. It's the sort of hill that makes you wonder if you might need to defy gravity! Great for walking off a huge dinner but anyone with a disability or a dodgy heart would be well advised to check it out before making a reservation.

The hill does, however, allow a superb view of Oban Bay. When the sun shines and you're sitting in the Lodge's lounge or its lovely garden, with a glass of wine in hand, there can be fewer places on this earth that could beat it.

By the way, Stewart Island is beautiful. If you love peace and quiet and bird watching, and just want to chill, walk and soak up the scenery for a few days among some of the most laid back people you could ever wish to meet, this is the place for you. I had a hard time leaving.

This is more like a bed and breakfast than a 'hotel'. It's quaint and very comfortable. All of the rooms have an amazing view of the Half Moon Bay. The room was clean, comfortable and very ample for our needs.

Although we were here in another era of the Stewart Island Lodge, we were very happy to re-enjoy the peace and quiet of this lodge. Lisa, the on-site manager is an invaluable wealth of knowledge along with her superior interpersonal skills. Through her sage advice we discovered the fresh water river cruise that gave us more insight on the fabulous nature on Stewart Island. You will find this lodge well appointed with a great view of Half Moon Bay from the veranda, be it morning, day or night!