Staying at the Bay Vista Waterfront Motel, Picton

Bay Vista Motel, in Picton.

Belinda Feek stays at the Bay Vista Waterfront Motel, Picton.

Getting there: Arrive in Picton and keep heading out of the city towards the wharf, but when you get to that turn-off, just keep driving. It's about 3km from the town centre.

Check-in: Despite my arriving at close to 10pm, owner Kerry Scheerhoorn gave a lovely welcome. The next morning a continental breakfast was waiting before our early departure to go swimming with dolphins.

Room: It was a two-bedroom apartment, although it felt even bigger with its separate, well-equipped kitchen and spacious dining/lounge. You wake to views out to the harbour, with yachts in the distance, and over Waikawa Bay. It's a picturesque, quiet and relatively private spot. There's also a couple of chairs if you want to sit outside to have your morning coffee.

Price: The apartments range from $155 to $330 and can sleep up to eight.

What's so good about this place? Has to be the tranquillity and views. It's also very clean and tidy. The perfect refresher after a long day's tramping. There are courtesy transfers to and from the Picton ferry.

And the bad? If you wanted to go out for a drink, the distance from town could put you off.

Food and drink: You can save money and cook your own dinner.

The bed: Was perfect. A queen-size bed in one room and two single beds in the other.

The beds were firm but soft enough not to leave you with a sore back.

Bathroom: Large and spacious. This unit also has disability access so the bathroom is nearly 3sq m. All of your basic showering toiletries are provided.

Contact: bayvistapicton.co.nz

Noise: I had one of the best sleeps of my trip, no noise issues.

Is it worth coming back for? Definitely. However, if you're planning to have a few drinks at night, you could find something closer to town.