Rai Valley Cottage

Rai Valley Cottage is a historic place located in Carluke, Marlborough, New Zealand.

It was built in 1881 by the first people to settle in the isolated, bush-clad Rai Valley. The cottage was registered with the New Zealand Historic Places Trust on June 28, 1990, and is registered as a Category I - Historic Place. The cottage is situated on Opouri Road, Rai Valley, and is surrounded by beautiful scenery.

The area was densely forested in the 19th century, and a township grew up at Carluke, just to the west of Rai Valley locality, around a sawmill built by William Brownlee in 1907. About 100 people worked at the mill, and a light railway connected it to a port. The cottage is a small, single-story building with a gabled roof and a verandah. It has a simple, rustic charm that is typical of the era in which it was built. The interior of the cottage has been restored to its original condition, with period furnishings and fittings.

Visitors to Rai Valley Cottage can learn about the history of the area and the people who lived there. The cottage is open to the public, and guided tours are available. Visitors can also explore the surrounding area, which is home to an impressive selection of attractions and experiences, making it well worth a visit. Rai Valley Cottage is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in New Zealand's history and heritage. The cottage is a testament to the pioneering spirit of the people who settled in the area and is a reminder of the challenges they faced. It is a beautiful and peaceful place that offers a glimpse into the past and is well worth a visit.