Aaaah here we are with a new and 'Boombastic...Totally Fantastic' blog post, showcasing yet another gleaming gem to be found in and around the best town in the world! Yes, that's right Lovely Reader I give you......L'Arte nestled snugly in the outskirts of Taupo.

L'Arte is one of those places that all the locals know about, but, sneakily, it is still able to retain it's secret charm due to it's position out of town. L'Arte is not a place where you simply 'pop in for a coffee'...no, no, no...L'Arte is more of an experience. Located on Mapara Road in Acacia Bay it is kind of off the beaten track, but when you do eventually rock up in the car park, you step into a magical world of visual treats and vibrant, colourful artistry. Here you are treated to a new and exciting piece of original work around every corner. As you negotiate the meandering pathways wide eyed, your senses drink in the various weird and wonderful examples of modern art, mosaics and sculptures from NZ based artists. There is so much to look at, both on the ground and at eye level, so let's do it!

The signposts gently lead you uphill to the shop, where you can either browse or purchase that perfect gift for someone special, or find an eclectic hand crafted addition to compliment your own indoor or outdoor space. All this and we haven't even mentioned the cafe.yet. Oooh are you feeling a deliciously coffee-related experience coming on? Ok, let's make out way back downhill,,,,,,,,

......into a comfortable sitting room?  What? Has she gone quite mad?.....I thought we were in an outdoor gallery..yes I hear you, but wait! This sitting room is very different, what with it being constructed entirely from concrete and painstakingly decorated in colourful mosaic tiles. (pics of sitting room.. Armchair/Fireplace/Sofa) It is wonderfully quirky, and the steps down require care as they can be quite slippery.This particular area is great for phoographs especially if you have infants with you as they look cute and Lilliputian sitting on the huge sofa or armchair.

So, onwards to the cafe (fully licensed, I might add!) where the visual treats on display are of a culinary nature and even the table numbers are arty! From sweet delights to savoury yumness, there's something delicious for everyone, the only problem is deciding on what to have amidst the plethora of choice leaping out at you from vast chalkboards....either way your choice will be a fine reward for all your exploring.....Happy Days