This is a Clifftop Escape with Endless Ocean Views in Schooner Bay, Tryphena, Great Barrier Island Treat yourself and your loved one to a peaceful hideaway perched high above the sea, where waves crash 100m below and dolphins, orcas, whales — even manta rays — pass by in the blue. This architecturally designed eco-retreat is warm, stylish, and completely off-grid — a perfect haven for honeymooners, stargazers, and seekers of silence. Accessible only by 4WD, the location guarantees true solitude. Your hosts live in the attached home and are happy to help with island tips, and support with off grid systems if needed — but your space is private and fully self-contained. 🌈 Everyone’s welcome. Get in touch for discounted flight rates to make your island escape even easier.

Born in the Netherlands, I have been living in New Zealand since 1999. I love my new country and the things I love doing most are spending time on the beach or in the water with fam and friends, hiking with my mates and spending time at home doing creative stuff. When I go on holiday, I sometimes stay on Aotea, but I also like to go on road trips, to visit friends and family, and beautiful places. There's plenty of those in New Zealand. I also love visiting friend and fam in my old country and I love the islands of the Pacific. I like treating others the way I would like to be treated and am a firm believer in the Dutch saying: Wie goed doet goed ontmoet. (Who does well, meets well) I enjoy hosting people at XSPOT Beach and XSPOT Cliff and where I can I try to make sure our guests have a great break, and get the most out of their time on our beautiful island. I have been interested in the stars for a while now, as Great Barrier's sky is just so good (it became a Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2017), and it was then that my friend Deborah and I set up Good Heavens. We provide Dark Sky Experiences to visitors to Great Barrier Island. So much fun! Ask me about it if you are interested.

XSPOT Cliff The Cliff House offers true seclusion — perched right on the edge of a dramatic coastal bluff with vast, panoramic views that leave most guests saying “wow” the moment they arrive. It’s an 8km drive or a scenic 2-hour walk from Tryphena. The final stretch includes unsealed road, so a 4WD vehicle is essential. Bring your own on the ferry or hire one from Aotea Rentals. We can help with flights, car rentals and stargazing bookings, too. Contact us directly now. From this clifftop perch, you'll often spot dolphins, whales, and occasionally even manta rays gliding through the waters below. The more time you spend outside watching, the better your chances — nature rewards patience. While the setting is usually peaceful and still, storms can roll in dramatically. The wind may howl around the house during rough weather — a wild and raw reminder that you’re on the edge of the world. The apartment is completely self-contained and fully private, with your own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and several doors separating it from the main house.