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Sophie's

Canterbury


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Eating and Drinking

EATING AND DRINKING

Sophie's is self-catering. Just bring your food and drink, and cook meals using the two-burner gas stove and an open-fire firepit area provided to prepare your meals. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

If you fancy dining out, Darfield, 20 minutes away has a variety of enticing options to explore. Take in the alpine views at Terrace Downs while savouring fresh, local cuisine. Grain & Grape is your local hub for exceptional food and drinks. Gunyah Country Estate is a historic building nestled in a picturesque rural setting. Or drive 20 minutes to Hororata to try the famous pies at the Hororata Pie Shop.

The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is the Glentunnel Store (it is a small Corner Store yet packed with so many items!)

Things to Do

THINGS TO DO

Sophie's allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life - just a short hop from the city. Immerse yourself in the tranquil natural beauty, surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle murmur of the river.

The zome is a short distance from a popular swimming hole. Head in for a swim! Note that the Selwyn River is open to the public, so you may see or hear others enjoying this natural facility too. If you have a fishing license, the Selwyn River is also a popular fishing option!

Alternatively, stay in the privacy of your campsite and soak up the fresh air and birdsong while soaking in the luxurious wood-fired hot tub, letting your worries melt away.

If you're looking for a scenic nature walk, Washpen Falls (30 minutes away) is a beautiful waterfall that cascades down into a crystal-clear pool, perfect for swimming or simply relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Rakaia Gorge (30 minutes away) is a scenic gorge carved by the Rakaia River, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Castle Hill is 1 hour away, featuring thousands of limestone boulders that have been sculpted by erosion over millions of years.

Terrace Downs Golf Resort (25 minutes away) offers a world-class golfing experience, set against a stunning backdrop of mountains and valleys.

Your Hosts

YOUR HOSTS

Your hosts at Sophie's - Manawa o Waikirikiri are Callum and Ellen.

With their children Arybella and Sophie, and furry friends Huxley and Pidge, they've cherished this riverside haven for seven years. Ellen, a nurse, and Callum, a builder and landscaper, have transformed the property into a beautiful retreat.

Passionate about sharing the beauty they've cultivated, the family was inspired by the joy of glamping and wanted to create something of their own.

Sophie's is named after their second daughter, and the description 'Manawa o Waikirikiri' translates to 'heart of the Selwyn' in Te Reo Māori.

TESTIMONIALS

“ It was a beautiful amazing experience. A truly magical experience. ”

Dasha Tkachenko- 2025-07-22

20 / 20

“ Due to a ferry issue, we were going to get in much later than we had hoped. Our host was incredibly accommodating and even provided us with a very late check out. The location was beautiful, almost like a haven out of a fairy tale. The stream next to our location and the wildlife surrounding it provided us with an amazing experience. ”

Aaron Eechaute-Lopez- 2026-03-30

1 / 20

“ We had such a beautiful and calming stay away. Listening to the water and birdsong was incredibly soothing and truly soul-filling. It was the perfect place to relax and reconnect with each other. The hot tub was an absolute highlight, and the bonfire was amazing — sitting around, chatting, and roasting marshmallows made it extra special. We would absolutely 10/10 recommend this getaway and can’t wait to come back! ”

Jess de Kleijn- 2026-03-30

2 / 20

“ A great stay. ”

TEEGAN O'NEILL- 2026-03-05

3 / 20

“ Awesome place, even though it rained, we had the most amazing stay. So beautiful. ”

George English- 2026-03-03

4 / 20

“ Amazing spot! We absolutely loved it! Clean, tidy and such a great set up. Will definitely go again! ”

Leisa Webster- 2026-02-17

5 / 20

“ We loved our stay. Would 100% go again, it's such a beautiful place. ”

Jessie Longstaffe- 2026-02-04

6 / 20

“ Sophie’s was amazing, the host went above and beyond. ”

Hayden Dowie- 2026-01-30

7 / 20

“ This place is magical, like your own private world. ”

Tracy Fleming- 2026-01-26

8 / 20

“ Blown away by this little haven, such magic tucked away a short distance from urban life. What a treat for all the senses. Saw two shooting stars fireside on our last evening as we listened to the awa rushing by. Birdlife phenomenal, hosts so accommodating, river an amazing swim and soundscape, followed by hot tubs aplenty. Couldn't ask for a better place to escape to be held in deep rest. Will be back. ”

Stacey Young- 2026-01-09

9 / 20

“ My forever happy place. I stayed alone for two nights. Needed for nothing. A mind-blowing, gorgeous, relaxing, and safe place to be in. Nature is everything. Hosts were lovely. Thank you for sharing this with me. ”

Kristie McLachlan- 2026-01-04

10 / 20

“ An amazing break away in a peaceful and beautiful location. ”

Brooke Coffin- 2025-11-11

11 / 20

“ 10/10 recommending this to everyone. ”

Sofia Guillen- 2025-11-05

12 / 20

“ We had a great time and experience at Sophie's. Photos of the zome and camping escape is spectacular. We will surely recommend. ”

JOHANNA NACU- 2025-10-19

13 / 20

“ Sophie's was an amazing spot and everything was so well thought out. A perfect getaway destination to relax and unwind. ”

Ashley Howden- 2025-09-10

14 / 20

“ Absolutely amazing! Loved everything about the place! Spent two nights here and it was blissful! ”

Shannon Church- 2025-09-06

15 / 20

“ Super lovely and relaxing place! The host was very helpful when we needed some extra help finding our way there haha. Would definitely recommend! ”

Juliette Smith- 2025-08-22

16 / 20

“ Forget fancy hotels...If you want your whole self to get a break from the stress and hustle of life and rejuvenate in a beautiful natural setting, then Sophie's is it! ”

Dallas and Lucy Harema- 2025-08-20

17 / 20

“ The best getaway experience we have had in a while. The scenery at Sophie’s getaway was insane, you truly felt like you were in your own little world. My partner and I loved every moment of our stay at Sophie’s and we will absolutely be booking a stay in the summer months. ”

Mia Horcera- 2025-07-29

18 / 20

“ We loved our stay at Sophies, it was super easy to find and the atmosphere was amazing. ”

Jeorgia Nieste-Currie- 2025-07-24

19 / 20

“ It was a beautiful amazing experience. A truly magical experience. ”

Dasha Tkachenko- 2025-07-22

20 / 20

“ Due to a ferry issue, we were going to get in much later than we had hoped. Our host was incredibly accommodating and even provided us with a very late check out. The location was beautiful, almost like a haven out of a fairy tale. The stream next to our location and the wildlife surrounding it provided us with an amazing experience. ”

Aaron Eechaute-Lopez- 2026-03-30

1 / 20

Scenic coastal landscape viewed through a golden tent opening, showing lush green hillside with forest line meeting turquoise ocean waters under clear blue sky

BROWSE OUR COLLECTION

Relax. Unplug. Savour a unique holiday experience. A secret weekend escape.

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Whatever the reason, let nature back in – go glamping!

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