Stay

“We were on a holiday driving from Auckland to Queenstown and this was a stop in the winelands of Blenheim suggested and arranged by our tour company. We had got the ferry across from Wellington in the morning, picked up the next car and drove south for about 30 minutes. I had sorted the route so as we came into towards the Blenheim area we went to four wineries for tastings before getting to the hotel. The hotel is very close to the wineries and we got there mid afternoon. Turning down a track you go a short way down a winding track and then come to a lovely quite small looking building. We were instantly greeted by a really friendly lady who made us feel immediately welcome. Our bags were taken from the car and straight to the room while she gave us a quick walk around what used to be a convent. This is a lovely place, very peaceful, lovely grounds, lovely rooms and very homely. Pre dinner drinks were suggested in what used to be the chapel and now a lovely lounge with a small bar and was so relaxing. Dinner is equally good in a very relaxed dining room. Excellent food and service. This place is relaxed homely luxury and it was a great pity our plans only allowed one night. If you have more time than we allowed, perhaps stay two nights, or more, while taking the whole day to look around the lovely wine region.”

Mike C

“This was our second stay here, though it was the Old St. Mary’s Convent when we stayed in 2009. There have been significant changes made inside - the rooms are more modern and elegant but still very comfortable and spacious. The chapel is now used as the gathering spot for afternoon canapés and drinks prior to dinner, with a large fireplace outside where we could visit with our hosts and fellow guests. The manager, Karen, was extremely attentive to our every need and the staff, Lindsey and Heaven, were fun to visit with and equally attentive. Everyone’s attention to detail is impressive, to say the least. We came away feeling quite pampered! And we really enjoyed meeting Maria, who cares for the beautiful grounds, to share memories from our earlier visit. Be sure to walk around the grounds to admire Maria’s good work and view the gardens - and, by all means, visit the chickens! I especially enjoyed walking along the creek and photographing the various species of birds that gather there. Lastly, as others have noted, the location is perfect for setting out to visit the many nearby wineries.”

gleno51

“How anybody could not give this 5 stars is beyond me! From the initial greeting with a lovely sauvignon ( Giesen) to the great food and gorgeous room upstairs with a view over the recently renovated chapel everything was wonderful. Go for a walk round the gardens as they are very pretty and lots of fruit to pick. The predinner drinks are free flowing and sitting out by the fire even on warm night was a perfect way to start the evening. We took the Lodge bikes and did a wine tour on the bikes - was flat and taking it steady was a lovely way to see the area and taste lots of the wine. Couldn't imagine staying anywhere else in Marlborough. Thank you to Karren and all her team”

DerekIlkley

“We spent three nights at The Marlborough Lodge at the end of a vacation through the South Island. What an ending! From the moment we stepped out of the car, Karen and her staff treated us like royalty; our every wish was there command! The lodge and its rooms are beautiful (stay in the Chapel room if you can); the grounds are gorgeous; the food is to-die-for -- both breakfast and dinner! This was a very self-indulgent way to end a. vacation. If I didn't live around the world from there I would definitely go back!!!”

bjbromberg