Horseinaround

HOTEL OVERVIEW

You know what? I wasn’t expecting much when I first pulled up to Horseinaround on Settlement Road – the name alone had me wondering what I’d gotten myself into. But honestly, this place surprised me in the best way possible. It’s tucked away on RD 3, which means you’re properly out in the Waikato countryside, about a 15-minute drive from Cambridge proper. The kind of spot where you actually hear birds instead of traffic, and the night sky is dark enough to see stars (something you forget living in the city).

The property itself has this relaxed, almost homestead feel that works perfectly with the rural setting. I mean, you’re literally surrounded by horse paddocks – hence the name, which makes total sense once you’re there. The rooms are well-appointed without being fussy, and everything feels fresh and thoughtfully maintained. What really got me was the attention to detail – proper blackout curtains for those early morning roosters, and the beds are actually comfortable, not just hotel-bed acceptable. The bathrooms are modern and spacious, with decent water pressure (always a gamble in rural properties, but they’ve got it sorted). Parking is easy and right outside, which is clutch when you’re hauling luggage or planning early morning adventures.

What makes this place special though is how it sits in the landscape. You’re perfectly positioned for exploring the wider Waikato region – Lake Karapiro is practically next door if you’re into water sports or just want a peaceful walk, and you can reach Hamilton in about 20 minutes when you need proper shops or restaurants. But honestly, you might not want to leave much because there’s something genuinely restorative about the setting. The owners clearly know their stuff about hospitality – check-in was smooth, they’re full of local recommendations without being pushy about it, and the whole operation feels professional but personal. I’d actually recommend this for anyone wanting to experience rural New Zealand without sacrificing comfort, or if you’re using Cambridge as a base for exploring but want somewhere quieter than the main town. Just remember it’s genuinely rural, so stock up on snacks in Cambridge if you’re particular about having options right at your doorstep. The 8.9 rating makes sense – it’s the kind of place that does what it promises really well.