Sequoia Lodge & Backpackers

The owner was rude and mean when I politely asked for a shuttle. I accepted that there wasn't one and was about to leave, then he launched into a rant about how I could walk, was lazy, and felt entitled to expect a shuttle. It was completely unnecessary. Please be kind to people, and don't advertise a shuttle if you don't offer one. The website also needs updating. There were no puddings, and the spa looked overgrown and unused, like Sleeping Beauty's castle after 100 years.

One of the worst accommodation experiences I've ever had, despite travelling to over 54 countries. Our booking was messed up, and the manager put our party of six in an "overflow" room after first kicking out a homeless man. He didn't clean it or check its condition. One bed had recently been urinated on, there were drugs in the bathroom, and a vape and empty can of V in the bedroom. The bathroom was disgusting, the toilet was blocked, and there were only five beds, so I slept on the floor. Outside the entrance was a rubbish tip. Picton was completely full because of ferry cancellations, with nowhere else to stay. I suspect the manager resold our original room at a much higher rate. Terrible experience. I'll avoid this place like the plague and suggest others do too.

I learned some interesting history about the property, and it was a comfortable place to spend a couple of nights while travelling through Picton. Rob was very friendly and had created great accommodation. The host picked fresh mandarins for breakfast and shared helpful tips about places to visit around the area.

The photos were clearly old, and the place was filthy, with black mould, an uncleaned toilet, dirty cups and blood on the walls. It was the nastiest accommodation I've seen. We left and found somewhere else to stay.