The hotel that needs to be on your bucket list
- 16th September 2020 -
#travel #lifestyle
While COVID-19 has certainly stopped us from winter getaways to Fiji and Mediterranean cruises, Kiwis have taken on the pledge to explore their backyards. From Cape Reinga to Queenstown, families, couples and solo travellers are travelling across the country.
Some places are known, popular retreats and often found on a top ten article. However, there are others that may not be at the top of your New Zealand travel list but definitely should. One of our favourite spots is Blenheim, and not just for the sunshine and wine! Blenheim boasts one of the country’s most exclusive and luxurious hotels. The best part? It’s only an hour and a half’s flight away from Auckland.
From its surroundings to the stunning rooms, every inch of The Marlborough Hotel is luxury. With elegant, contemporary suites, gourmet local cuisine, outdoor heated pool, beautiful gardens that run into the surrounding vineyards and attentive staff on hand 24 hours a day, it is a true oasis.
Of course, no luxurious getaway is complete without world-class food. New Zealand has no shortage of great restaurants and Blenheim is no different. But if you’d rather stay on the hotel grounds for more of a staycation then you will love Harvest. Soon to have a new Head Chef with Michelin-star experience and an all-new menu, it features seasonal ingredients inspired by the surrounding area as well as their own garden. And did we mention the wine? Enjoy a glass or two of Marlborough’s finest alongside wines from around the world.
While there are so many things to see and do in Blenheim, the hotel grounds have more than just delicious food and wine. Swim in the outdoor heated swimming pool, surrounded by nature with the convenience of poolside service. Or take a walk through the beautiful gardens filled with various vegetables, fruit, berries, herbs and citrus - and even free-range chickens!
Rather than keep this secret under wraps, owner Angela Dillon of The Marlborough Hotel is opening its doors to all Kiwis. While everyone’s struggles have been different, there’s no one who hasn’t felt the economic burden of the pandemic more than Angela. For the month of September, Kiwis are invited to enjoy an $1800 a night hotel, with all the luxury fittings, at a discounted rate of $650 for three nights, including breakfast, as well as welcome drinks and canapes.
A true piece of history, The Marlborough Hotel was built in 1901 for the Sisters of Mercy. This historic Victorian Convent was originally located next to Saint Mary's Church in Blenheim. It provided nineteen bedrooms for the nuns, a library, music room, sewing room, office and a beautiful chapel upstairs on the first floor. Native timbers were extensively used in the construction including Matai, Rimu and Kauri, including the substantial carved staircase, constructed entirely from Kauri. It wasn’t until 2016 that, after extensive refurbishment, it was reopened as The Marlborough offering ten luxury suites.
2020 has given Kiwis the chance to explore, appreciate and find new favourite places in our own backyard. All the experiences we desire from a good vacation can be found here, from world-class vineyards, sun-drenched days and luxurious hotel living. The Marlborough Hotel has this in spades - don’t miss out.