Cabot Lodge

I first saw this magnificent lodge on a listing when researching last May prior to our trip to New Zealand towards the end of January this year. It showed the lodge from behind up the hill looking across Lake Manapouri to the snow-capped mountains beyond. It took my breath away, such was its impact that I resolved that we MUST incorporate a stay into our South Island travel plan ...and we did! We've arrived early afternoon to be greeted by the joint owner, Breidi, and escorted to our beautiful suites with a patio looking onto that view I'd seen online. After explaining how everything worked, answering any questions we had, Breidi left us some newly baked cookies, and I went for an introductory walk round this working sheep farm. Stunning! The prices charged include aperitifs, dinner, and a wonderful full breakfast incorporating home grown vegeatbles, lamb, beef, etc, and the best Stewart Island salmon. All the food was cooked expertly and beautifully presented by Chef Rod. The waiting staff were so friendly, knowledgeable and welcoming as was Breidi's husband Brad who was there to welcome us for aperitifs and gave us three history of the farm started by the parents who have "retired" but live on a house just down from the Lodge. So many sheep graze in the fields but also cattle and deer to make it sustainable given it costs more to shear a sheep than farmers get for the fleece nowadays! We've stayed two nights relaxing and being indulged totally by the owners and staff. Nothing was too much trouble. I'd heard about the "Bookshop at the end of the world" run by Ruth Shaw but thought we wouldn't manage a visit given we were on the 10am Doubtful Sound Cruise but Breidi said to get there by 09:15 and indeed Ruth, alerted by Breidi, had opened early to show us around and allow us to buy some books for our granddaughters in Singapore, whom wed see on a brief transfer at Changi on the way back. What an inspiration Ruth is and an amazing life - really pleasure to meet her. Manapouri is a delightful small village where everyone knows and helps each other which a joy to experience. I really can't talk highly enough about this little piece of paradise on earth. Suffice to say it's probably the "best" place we've ever been for peace and quiet, subdued luxury, great local food, and professional but unassuming service. The scenery is out of this world, and you don't need to be doing anything at all to enjoy the lodge and its surroundings. Just enjoy the sounds of silence (and the odd sheep noise!!) My last night, I relaxed late into the evening on our patio, sustained by Central Otago full-bodied Pinot Noir gazing out towards these gorgeous mountains as the sun dipped behind them and vowed to return one day. If there's a better place, I've yet to see it! Breidi, Brad, and all staff, thank you so much for your hospitality and extending such a warm welcome to us that went far and beyond our already high expectations.

If you are a fan of serene, pastoral beauty, abiding tranquility, deep comfort, food that surprises and delights at every turn, access to astounding tramping and endlessly thoughtful, caring hosts and team, this is your home. We are here now, and intend to find a way to stay; time to learn to shear.

Absolutely fantastic! Truly amazing experience in this beautiful Lodge.... thoroughly recommend. Stunning location, beautiful room, excellent food and superb staff who are so friendly and welcoming. Nothing is too much trouble and everything is quality but beautifully understated. An absolute must when visiting New Zealand!