Tophouse Inn

This historic Inn offers a truly unique and memorable experience, with its iconic building and the distinction of housing the smallest bar in New Zealand. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional hospitality of the owners, who are praised for their warm welcome and genuine care. The beautiful location and stunning views contribute to a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat. This destination is particularly well-suited for couples seeking a romantic and relaxed getaway, families looking for a charming rural experience with engaging activities for children, and walkers or hikers exploring the surrounding natural beauty. To fully immerse yourself in the experience, guests recommend booking dinner during your stay and taking time to explore the picturesque grounds.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests have a choice of accommodation, including cozy rooms within the main historic building and well-appointed, self-contained cottages. The property boasts unique features such as the famous smallest bar in New Zealand, which many find a delightful and intriguing spot for a drink. Common areas include inviting fireplaces that create a warm ambiance, especially during cooler evenings, and a library stocked with interesting local history books. Guests appreciate the reliable and super-fast satellite Wi-Fi available throughout. The extensive gardens are beautifully maintained, and the presence of various animals like alpacas, ducks, and chickens adds to the charm. For younger visitors, a dedicated play area with swings and a vintage tractor ensures entertainment.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently commend the high cleanliness standards maintained throughout the property, from the main Inn to the self-contained cottages. The rooms and cottages are described as warm and comfortable, ensuring a restful stay. Reviewers frequently highlight the quality of the comfortable beds, which contribute to a good night's sleep. The bathrooms are noted for being spotless and modern, providing a pleasant experience. Many guests appreciate the thoughtful addition of heated blankets in the cottages, enhancing comfort during colder periods. While most experiences are positive, some guests staying in the main building have occasionally noted minor noise levels from other guests, though this is not a widespread concern.

Dining & Food Quality
The dining experience at the Inn receives widespread acclaim, with many guests describing the dinner as superb, restaurant-quality, and a highlight of their stay. Meals are often prepared with fresh, local ingredients, contributing to their exceptional taste. The breakfast is equally praised, frequently described as delicious, generous, and the "best ever," often featuring freshly laid duck eggs and a choice of cooked or continental options. The bar offers a good selection of beers and wines, providing a pleasant setting for evening drinks. Additionally, guests enjoy the delightful afternoon tea with fresh scones and coffee, making it a popular stop even for those just passing through.

Location & Accessibility
The Inn's location is consistently described as beautiful, sublime, and incredible, offering a sense of being wonderfully out of the way while still being accessible. Guests appreciate the feeling of a remote location that is not far from nearby towns, providing a perfect balance of tranquility and convenience. The property boasts stunning views, including picturesque mountain views and a charming rural outlook from the accommodations. It is conveniently close to the access road for the Rainbow ski field, making it a great base for winter sports enthusiasts. The surrounding area also offers opportunities for scenic walks, including along Lake Rotoiti, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature.

Staff & Service
Most guests consistently praise the friendly staff and welcoming hosts, highlighting their exceptional attentive service and willingness to go above and beyond. Many reviewers commend the owners for their helpful advice and accommodating requests, often noting how they made guests feel like family. They are frequently described as engaging and warm, contributing significantly to a positive and memorable stay. However, some guests have reported isolated incidents where they felt a lack of care or respect regarding noise disturbances from on-site events, leading to a perception of less responsiveness to their concerns. Despite this, the overwhelming sentiment is one of outstanding hospitality and dedication to guest comfort.

Additional Information
The Inn is celebrated for its rich historic significance, with its building dating back to the late 1800s and retaining much of its authentic charm. Guests interested in local history will find the property fascinating, with stories and details shared by the hosts. The Inn operates a pet-friendly policy, welcoming furry companions. A unique feature is the "Thinking Room," a dedicated space for enjoying drinks. The property also boasts a charming "forest park" area populated with various resident animals, including alpacas, ducks, and chickens, which guests, especially families, enjoy interacting with. Many reviewers highlight the numerous thoughtful touches throughout the Inn that enhance the overall guest experience.