Luxury Private Railway Carriage Experience - It's Not Just Bed & Breakfast!
INDULGE. RELAX. RECHARGE.
A railway hideaway like no other
Welcome To About Thyme for Sleeps and Treats! Imagine waking up in your own private railway retreat, where heritage charm meets modern luxury. This lovingly crafted railway carriage has been transformed into a cosy tiny home, perfectly positioned along the historic Otago Central Rail Trail, offering front-row seats to some of Central Otago’s most spectacular adventures.
Step into nature’s playground
Let nature set the pace of your stay. Step outside to discover scenic walking and cycling tracks, a pristine dam perfect for summer swims and kayaking, and a gentle river inviting exploration. Or simply pause and watch the world roll by as cyclists traverse the legendary rail trail just beyond your window.
Unwind, indulge, and soak up the magic
Your days unfold exactly as you choose. Start with a freshly brewed coffee in your private and exclusive half acre, lose yourself in a good book, or befriend the resident sheep and deer, who always appreciate the rattle of a feed bucket. As evening sets in, enjoy pizza, plonk, and pétanque, then sink into a classic clawfoot bath beneath the dazzling Milky Way – a true Central Otago experience.
Luxury comforts in a historic setting
Inside this carefully curated space, every comfort awaits. A plush queen-size bed dressed in high-quality linens, soft fluffy towels, and thoughtful touches transform this compact retreat into something truly special. The ensuite bathroom and kitchenette provide modern conveniences while preserving the romantic charm of early 1900s rail travel.
Your perfect escape awaits
Whether you’re seeking a base for cycling adventures, a peaceful retreat into nature, or a unique stay in the heart of Central Otago, you’ll find your own rhythm here. Alexandra’s treasures and the region’s celebrated wineries lie just moments away, ready to be discovered at your leisure.
Kitchen & Dining
WELL-EQUIPPED KITCHENETTE – Enjoy the convenience of a modern kitchenette, featuring polished granite countertops and handcrafted warm oak cabinetry, a fridge, microwave, toaster, Nutra Ninja, Nespresso machine, and quality essentials for your stay.
BREAKFAST, READY WHEN YOU ARE
Wake up to a leisurely morning with a thoughtfully prepared selection of breakfast provisions, waiting inside your carriage. Delivered the evening before, they allow you to enjoy a fresh, locally sourced breakfast at your own pace, whether you prefer an early start or a slow, relaxed morning.
NO DISHES, NO FUSS
There is nothing to tidy up, as all used dishes from the day are collected and replaced daily. Simply relax and enjoy your meals without the hassle of washing up.
Bedrooms
QUEEN – SIZE COMFORT – Sink into a luxurious queen-size bed, dressed in high-quality linen, cottons and wool for a restful night’s sleep.
For the cooler evenings an electric blanket warms your bed.
Bathrooms
A LUXURIOUS BATHROOM EXPERIENCE
The ensuite bathroom is surprisingly spacious for a tiny home, featuring:
A powerful, oversized shower, offering plenty of space and excellent water pressure.
A pristine composting toilet, designed for sustainability without compromising on comfort.
A vintage-inspired pedestal sink, framed by elegant black accents and complemented by granite and warm oak touches.
Soft, fluffy towels warmed on a heated towel rail, ensuring you step out of the shower into cosy warmth.
Premium toiletries, adding a touch of indulgence to your stay.
Outdoor Areas
OUTDOOR LIVING AND RELAXATION
Beyond the carriage, you’ll find plenty of space to relax.
A large outdoor table with seating, perfectly positioned for sun or shade, allowing you to dine or unwind in the setting of your choice.
Comfortable outdoor furniture, inviting you to stretch out, read a book, or simply take in the beauty of the surrounding countryside.
OUTDOOR BATHS UNDER THE STARS
For an unforgettable evening, slip into one of the clawfoot outdoor baths,
OUTDOOR COOKING
Step outside and embrace the outdoor lifestyle of Central Otago.
A Weber BBQ is available for easy alfresco dining, whether you’re grilling fresh produce or preparing a leisurely feast.
A wood-fired pizza oven offers the perfect excuse to cook your own delicious pizzas, available for use in the cooler months when fire restrictions allow.
A cosy fire pit, ideal for roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the night sky, adds a touch of magic to your evenings when conditions permit.
Nearby
“We loved watching the deer, sheep, chickens and other wildlife (quails!), playing petanque and having BBQs. There is a sense of ‘hiding out’ – of time being ‘suspended’ – and yet being handy to town, the Rail Trail, places of interest and even the wider area, if you are wanting to get out and ‘do’. ”
Ange – Coromandel
Otago Central Rail Trail
Dunstan Trail
Roxburgh Gorge Trail
Award Winning Wineries
Hayes Engineering
The Clock on the Hill
Scenic Walks
Swimming
Kayaking
Fine and Casual Dining
Yoga
Mountain Biking
Safety Features
Smoke alarm, fire extinguisher & first aid kit available on site.
House Rules
SMOKING / VAPING: We have a strict no-smoking and no-vaping policy throughout the entire property. Any violation of this policy will result in an immediate termination of your stay, along with a minimum $500 deep cleaning fee. We kindly ask that you respect this policy, as it is very important to us. Thank you! .
FURRY FRIENDS: We welcome dogs and request that you add them to your booking. The carriage is cosy and suited to smaller dogs. Dogs must be fully vaccinated and these need to be up to date. Dogs are also required to be wormed regularly or have to be wormed for tapeworm at least 48 hours prior to arrival. This is for the prevention of spreading sheep measles. Please send a copy of the certificate to us at the time of booking. Dogs must be under control at all times.
Booking Cancellation Policy
Guests may cancel their booking up to 60 full days before check-in to receive a full refund of the booking amount. Cancellations made less than 60 full days before check-in are non-refundable. The 3% bank payment fee is non-refundable in all cases.
Entertainment
We’ve thoughtfully provided a selection of cards and board games, intriguing books, pétanque and old-fashioned quoits to enjoy during your stay. Yoga mats and blocks are also available for your relaxation. While we encourage guests to take a break from screens and fully embrace the peaceful surroundings, reliable Starlink wifi and ample power points ensure you can easily keep in touch with loved ones at your convenience.
Luxury Amenities
STARGAZING & OUTDOOR BATHING
Relax and unwind beneath the spectacular night skies of Central Otago. Enjoy soaking in our luxurious outdoor clawfoot baths, complete with calming bath bombs and fragrant bath salts. Surrounded by peaceful nature, lose yourself beneath the brilliant Milky Way—it’s an unforgettable way to experience the magic of your stay.
EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE & EXCLUSIVE PRIVACY
We pride ourselves on good old-fashioned hospitality – warm, attentive service with genuine care and thoughtful attention to detail. You’ll enjoy exclusive use of the property during your stay, ensuring privacy to relax and unwind peacefully. We’re always nearby when needed, ready to provide personalised recommendations and assistance to make your experience truly special.