The Marlborough Lodge

Rapaura sits at the heart of the Marlborough wine region, on New Zealand's South Island, and it is here, among vine rows and gardens, that The Marlborough makes its home. The hotel occupies a former Victorian convent, built in 1901 and later relocated and restored on this 16-acre estate, its original features kept alongside newer, plainer furnishings. Ten rooms are spread over two floors. Premium and Deluxe rooms open onto private balconies with views over vines or garden; Queen rooms sit on the ground floor. Grounds run to more than 400 tree and shrub species, a spring-fed creek, and a small lake, with paths threading through for walking or simply sitting out. The estate grows its own Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Merlot and Malbec, along with organic vegetables and estate mushrooms, both feeding Harvest Restaurant's kitchen. Guests can join a sommelier-led tasting through the vineyard most mornings. In the evening, an outdoor fire burns by the Chapel Bar before dinner. The Marlborough Sounds lie a short drive away, their three separate waterways offering walking and boating beyond the estate gate. Vineyard Suites are now in development on a separate part of the property, set apart from the main house to keep its grounds and restaurant unchanged during construction.