Swain-selected stayTaupo, New ZealandRiver Birches LodgeA distinctive base for a journey designed around you.Selected by our Destination ExpertsExploreThe storyGalleryExperiencesPlan your stayThe stayWhat to know about this stay.River Birches Lodge sets three guest rooms plus a separate cottage beside the Tongariro River in Turangi, on Lake Taupo's southern edge, making it the closest boutique lodge to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing trailhead, its defining feature. Privately guided single-party excursions on the Crossing mean guests take on New Zealand's most popular day walk without joining a crowded group tour.Fly fishing on the Tongariro River itself, white-water rafting, mountain biking and winter skiing on Mount Ruapehu round out a stay built for travelers who came for the outdoors first and the lodge second, a five-course prix fixe dinner built around organic and local ingredients pre-bookable for any evening of the stay. A closer lookRiver Birches Lodge, in detail.View all 12 photosBeyond the stayExperiences nearbyBeing the closest boutique lodge to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing trailhead is River Birches' defining feature, and privately guided single-party excursions on the Crossing mean guests take on New Zealand's most popular day walk without joining a crowded group tour. Fly fishing on the Tongariro River itself, white-water rafting, mountain biking and winter skiing on Mount Ruapehu round out a stay built for travelers who came for the outdoors first and the lodge second. Plan with SwainAdd River Birches Lodge to your journey.Tell us where you want to go and how you like to travel. We will recommend the right route, length of stay, and experiences.Start planning →
