The Marlborough

Some holidays are all about the destination, while others are about the journey. New Zealand is unquestionably a destination that is all about the journey. A breathtaking flight over snowy mountains and vibrant blue seas dropped me off at Nelson airport, where I picked up my hire car, tuned into my driving playlist, and zoned out not realising that this would be one of the most beautiful drives of my life. 

Two hours of exhilarating hairpin bends through mountain passes, steep gorges, dense forests, silent sounds and gushing glacial rivers led me into the open expanse of Marlborough – the heartland of Sauvignon Blanc. 

With hundreds of cellar doors to explore, temptation got the better of me and I stopped off for some cheeky wine tasting en route. As I swirled another shiny wine glass towards the horizon, I noticed that the sky had painted a stunning pink and orange sunset. It reminded me it was time to find my living quarters for the weekend – just a couple clicks away. 

As my GPS directed me to turn into a long driveway, my phone rang. ‘Hello Ms Smith, it’s Karen from The Marlborough. I just wanted to check if you were okay and needed any help with directions’. I laughed and explained I was looking straight at the gates, which spontaneously swung open. From that moment on, I knew that Karen – and The Marlborough – would feel more like family and a home for the weekend, than a hotel.

With just 10 rooms, The Marlborough boasts staff who’ll get to know your name, how your like your coffee and who’ll curate wine recommendations depending on what you had the night before. By the time I was in the front door, another glass of Marlborough wine – this time Pinot Noir – awaited me along with a roaring fire and woollen blanket over the comfy sofa. A dream come true on a winter’s night.

As I took a look around the handsome art works and commented on the distinct architecture, Karen explained that the Lodge was originally a convent built over a century ago for a murmur of nuns in the town of Blenheim. In 1994, it was split into five pieces and relocated to the wine region, and it is easy to see why this feels like more sacred ground. Just step outside the 16-acre landscaped gardens and you are surrounded by wise old vines, chattering birds and panoramic views of the hills and snow-capped mountains in the distance. 

The refurbished convent offers a peaceful sanctuary in the wine lands, and a chance to soak up the Marlborough sun and fresh coastal breeze without the interruptions of the modern world – whether that’s lazing by the pool in the summertime, a brisk walk in the crisp winter, snuggling on the veranda with a good book, or stargazing by the outdoor fireplace in the evening.

There’s a homely feel to the attention but, although it was a nunnery in a previous lifetime, each luxurious suite has little details that make this a romantic escapade for Mr & Mrs Smith… Candles and chocolates laid on your bedside; a bathtub big enough for two; and dimmer lights in both the bedroom and bathroom set the scene. 

While the cosy interiors absorbed me into their comfort, and the beautiful wine valley outside beckoned, the true siren of Marlborough is the in-house restaurant, aptly named Harvest, which serves lavish dinners and breakfasts daily. Sourcing local ingredients from local producers, Harvest showcases the best of the season and region. 

Care is taken in the fine details: three types of honey from different flowers and fields at breakfast; home cured Ora King Salmon in an omelette-to-order; and 30-hour sourdough with olives picked from the garden and warmed in their own oil and freshly picked herbs before dinner. It’s no small wonder Marlborough is often fully booked years in advance.

I was sad to leave Marlborough and the Lodge but as Karen packed me off with a care package of homemade muffins, water and a woollen sheep souvenir, I remembered with some glee I was about to enjoy the second best drive of my life..