Beauty of mountain bring couple back

Sera and Markus Hojdelewicz are encouraging the Stratford community to visit the beautiful surroundings at the Dawson Falls Mountain Lodge.

The couple, who took over the lodge just over a year ago, say they were enticed by the natural beauty of the mountain. "We actually met each other while tramping on the mountain so when the opportunity came up to take over the lodge we jumped at the chance," says Sera.

While the cafe and accommodation have been up and running for the past 12 months, Sera says it was only at the beginning of this year that the restaurant opened to the public.

"With the addition of our new wonderful local chef we can open for evening dining."

Fiona Phillips of Kaponga has joined the family run business as the head chef and says the views from the lodge cannot be beaten.

With the opening of the restaurant Sera says the couple are happy to cater for all kinds of events from a simple evening dinner to bigger groups for weddings, family reunions and corporate bookings.

"We are more than happy to provide for groups of any size and with accommodation on site, groups can book out the lodge for days at a time."

Sera adds the lodge is decorated in a Swiss-Alpine theme which makes for a festive atmosphere.

"We have found since opening to the the public there are families throughout the region who have a history with the lodge and we love to share that with them."

Sera and Markus's two daughters also work in the lodge after school and on the weekends, "we have received some great feedback from visitors who like that the business is being run by a family".

Markus says with the couple's experience tramping on the mountain they are also more than happy to help visitors with what trails are worth exploring.

The Dawson Falls Mountain Lodge restaurant is open Thursday - Monday, the cafe is open Thursday - Sunday and accommodation is available seven days a week. To book or for more information check out www.dawsonfallsmountainlodge.kiwi.nz