A Grecian Paradise in Bowentown

It seemed fitting that my Spotify road trip playlist had just flicked over to Mamma Mia as I reached the driveway of the Med Style Castle, it felt like I had teleported out of little ol' New Zealand and landed in Santorini to check into a gorgeous ocean-view villa.

The apartment is situated on the top floor of the castle so it's cosy but it's perfectly comfortable, with an open plan bedroom/living area, a kitchenette and a spacious balcony ideal for stargazing and sunrise-watching. I'd recommend sleeping with the blinds open so you can wake up to the sun making its way over the hill at the end of the peninsula, the most beautiful way to start the day. The property also boasts a seriously impressive Tuscanesque garden complete with a few seats to enjoy a rest with a view.

Wander through the garden and a few minutes along the road you'll turn left to get to the main beach or continue down the road for another few hundred metres to find Anzac Bay, a calmer swimming area with stunning emerald water. But for the best beach in Bowentown, head to the Bowentown Lookout and find the stairs on the east-facing loop to reach a secret beach that looks like it's straight off a postcard. If you're lucky, like me, you might even get this spot to yourself! This is an absolute hidden gem, it's gotta be one of the most beautiful beaches on the North Island.

Back in Waihi Beach, grab a sweet treat from Secret Garden (the Snickers slice is to-die-for), enjoy a hearty meal at Flat White Cafe, shop 'til you drop at funky stores like the Salty Collective and Sunday, or grab fish and chips and head to the beach to watch the sky change colours.