Winter is Waning, Spring is Coming
It is fair to say that I am not a winter person, and with most of our adventure activities being orientated towards being in the outdoors, River Valley is not a Winter company either. Though, and this is a big, very positive though, the Lodge can be a wonderful place to hang out on a winter’s day enjoying great food and maybe a mulled wine around our large central fire.
Adventure comes in many forms 😊
The first day of Spring is only a few days away.
As we are at altitude, our season is later than in the lower country. However, daffodils are up with patches of bright white and yellow flowers, while the wattle (acacia) and wild plum trees are in full bloom. The first lambs are running about and filling the air with their bleats.
Days are getting longer, with birds active and noisy, no doubt loudly extolling their virtues to potential mates.
It is a time I look forward to every year. And while there will still be storms and colder patches, the trend is, in my mind, very much in the right direction.
So, what is on the agenda at River Valley these coming months?
The old favourites will keep delivering—great white water rafting on the Rangitikei River, whether Grade 5 excitement or Grade 2 scenic trips.
Multi-day river trips will start in November, with early trips on the Ngaruroro River.
Dory trips will run on the Whanganui, while the ever popular multi-day trips will resume on the Rangitikei. Multi-day river trips can be great fun for families over the summer holidays.
On horseback, six, eight-day rides – The River Valley Ride– are scheduled for the season. These departures are filling fast, and space is already limited.
Between the River Valley Rides, we offer shorter horse adventures of half a day to several days. The Home on the Range is popular as it incorporates staying at the Lodge with several days of riding.
River Valley Stables concentrates on providing rides for riders.
With our fleet of rental e-bikes, we offer fun adventures exploring the back roads of our area.
The “Moa Goa” is a popular package that includes accommodation, meals, and e-bike hire.
Our inaugural Gorges to See four-day rides were well received last autumn, with some rave reviews. Five departures are scheduled this season, with some already full, so again, space is limited. Bringing your own bike is undoubtedly an option.
Lastly, and who could ignore this, is the food on offer at the Lodge.
With our onsite organic vegetable garden already well-prepped and many rows already seeded or planted out, we anticipate some beautiful produce. Combining that produce with our chefs’ skills, you can expect stunning, tasty, fresh meals.
Of course, you could just book into River Valley Lodge and hang out for a day or more. That could also be a fantastic option with saunas, spa, massages, and yoga classes.
Either way, we think River Valley is a must-visit this season. Check out our website – www.rivervalley.co.nz and find an option that could work for you.
See you in the Spring.
Brian
