The Honeymoon Guide to Nelson

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Romantic Adventure Activities

From the city centre to the remote reaches of the surrounding national parks, romance can be found in every nook and cranny of the Nelson Tasman region. Starting in the city centre, be sure to take a stroll in the beautiful Queen’s Gardens with its gorgeous flower gardens, sculptures, water features and more. Founders Park also provides a romantic setting in a bygone era with heritage-style buildings still with working artisans and museum displays to admire – information on their locations can be found in the 10 Romantic Activities in Nelson for Couples.

Head out across Tasman Bay and you’ll come across an array of vineyards for wine tastings and fine dining, as featured in the 24 Nelson Wineries on the Nelson Wine Trail. You may also want to stop by Mapua Wharf for its array of eateries overlooking the tranquil waters of the Waimea Estuary. In fact, a romantic way to experience them all is along the Great Taste Cycle Trail, a 1-4 day journey through Nelson Tasman’s coastal and rural landscapes incorporating food, wine and art. Kiwi Journeys (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor) and Wheelie Fantastic Cycle Tours can organise all the logistics of this trail.

Of course, exploring the surrounding national parks of Abel Tasman, Kahurangi and the Nelson Lakes together is a must. A romantic way to go about it is by teaming up in a double kayak and exploring the golden sand beaches, marine reserves and islands of the Abel Tasman National Park. Popular options include the walk and kayak tour with Abel Tasman Kayaks (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor), while Kahu Kayaks (on Viator and Tripadvisor) offers a comprehensive all-kayak tour with lunch and freshly-brewed coffee included.

For more ideas, like visiting a wildlife sanctuary or finding breathtaking walks, check out the 10 Romantic Activities in Nelson for Couples.

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Romantic All-weather Activities

We’ve touched on the vineyards and wineries of Nelson, which also make fantastic and romantic ways to experience a rainy day in Nelson. However, more adventurous couples can get silly together on the quad biking tours at the Cable Bay Adventure Park – all the better in the rain! Ride through the bush and farm on the Farm Forest Ride or enjoy a more complete experience on the 2h30min Bayview Circuit covering 14km (8.5 miles) of terrain from bush to outstanding Cable Bay viewpoints. Find out more about Cable Bay Adventure Park on Viator and Tripadvisor.

If you prefer something more relaxing, then indulge the senses with a spa treatment shared together at the Erban Spa in Nelson city. Enjoy a couple’s massage with organic spa products and packages to dine at a local fine dining restaurant. Alternatively, retreat to Kimi Ora Eco Resort with this luxurious accommodation and spa treatments for men and women.

For more rainy day ideas, head to the 10 Things to Do in Nelson on a Rainy Day.

© www.nelsontasman.nz

Romantic Restaurants in Nelson

Complete your day of adventuring or relaxing together in Abel Tasman and Nelson with a romantic dinner at Nelson’s indulgent restaurants. A great place for couples is Arden Bar & Kitchen (216 Hardy Street) featuring the artisanal flavours of Nelson’s growers, brewers and winemakers in a cosy courtyard setting.

Out in the Tasman region, for Forsters Restaurant of the Moutere Hills Winery ( 42 Eggers Road, Upper Moutere) is a must for its views of rolling vines and its elegant refined dining. For romantic coastal views, the Boat Shed Cafe (351 Wakefield Quay) is an overwater cafe with prime sunset viewing to go along with its a la carte menu.

Finally, treat your loved one to high tea, a la carte dining and homemade baking at the Melrose Cafe (26 Brougham Street) set in a grand historic home.

For more restaurant recommendations, see The Foodie Guide to Nelson.