Bonjour, and welcome to Airki Lodge. Nelson's creative paradise is well represented in this French-inspired peaceful escape situated in the quiet, leafy outlying suburb of Stoke. I was warmly greeted by Hervé and Sylvie who have created an inviting haven for travellers in their home. The self contained cottage and in-house rooms all have their own entrances leading to relaxing areas in the tranquil and completely private garden. Paris trained artist, Hervé's cheerful figurative and abstract paintings decorate the walls with scenes from Venice to Wellington's Island Bay. The main lounge and dining room serve as his gallery. Sylvie, a writer is equally talented as a chef and her cookbook with French/English translation is available for sale at the bed and breakfast. Her mouth-watering quiche Lorraine formed part of our French welcome platter alongside wine, cheese, fresh fruits and breads. Mind you, Hervé's breakfast crepes are equally delicious! Luckily, our Nelson escape stretched over a few days so we were able to enjoy true European hospitality over aperitifs in their inviting dining room, practising our rusty French. On Sylvie's suggestion, we left the car at 'home', walking 15 minutes' to the famous World of Wearable Arts museum and café. Otherwise we explored wineries, galleries and nearby walking tracks including a day in glorious Abel Tasman National Park. Back 'home' at Ariki, there is a strong emphasis on unwinding and relaxing which I certainly made the most of. Bonsoir, until we meet again.
