Marlborough – What to do and where to stay

New Zealand’s Marlborough region is a must-visit destination for those who love wine, breathtaking scenery, and outdoor activities. Located on the northern tip of the South Island, this region is home to some of the country’s best wineries and stunning natural landscapes. In this blog post, we will explore what to do, where to stay, and the fascinating history of the region.

History

The Marlborough region has a rich history, both Maori and European. The Wairau Bar is an ancient Maori settlement and is considered one of the earliest sites of human habitation in New Zealand. The first Europeans to visit Marlborough were Abel Tasman and James Cook in the 17th and 18th centuries. European settlers arrived in the 19th century, and today the region is home to a thriving agricultural and viticulture industry.

What to Do

1. Visit wineries: Marlborough is known for its award-winning wineries, particularly Sauvignon Blanc. A visit to a winery is a must-do activity, and visitors can enjoy wine tastings and tours.
2. Hiking: There are many hiking trails in the region, including the famous Queen Charlotte Track. This 70-kilometer track takes hikers through lush forests and along stunning coastal scenery.
3. Wildlife encounters: The Marlborough Sounds are home to a diverse range of marine wildlife, including dolphins, seals, and penguins. Visitors can take boat tours to get up close to these animals.
4. Kayaking: The Marlborough Sounds are perfect for kayaking, with calm waters and stunning scenery. Many tour operators offer guided kayak tours.
5. Visit museums: Marlborough has several museums that provide a glimpse into the region’s rich history, including the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre and the Marlborough Museum.

Where to Stay

1. Marlborough Vintners Hotel: This luxury hotel is set amongst vineyards and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Guests can enjoy a wine cellar and restaurant.
2. Bay of Many Coves: This secluded resort is located in the Marlborough Sounds and offers luxury accommodation and a range of outdoor activities, including hiking and kayaking.
3. Chateau Marlborough: This boutique hotel is located in the heart of Blenheim and offers stylish accommodation and a range of amenities, including a swimming pool and fitness center.
4. The Peppertree Luxury Accommodation: This historic homestead offers luxury accommodation and is set amongst beautiful gardens. Guests can enjoy a restaurant and wine cellar.
5. The Sounds Retreat: This luxury lodge is located in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds and offers stunning views of the surrounding waterways. Guests can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including fishing and kayaking.

When it comes to wine, Marlborough is one of the most renowned regions in the world, and for good reason. The area is home to over 150 wineries and produces some of the best Sauvignon Blanc on the planet. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best wineries and vineyards to visit in Marlborough.

1. Cloudy Bay: Cloudy Bay is perhaps the most famous winery in Marlborough, and for good reason. It’s widely regarded as one of the pioneers of the region’s wine industry and produces a range of excellent Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.
2. Brancott Estate: Brancott Estate was the first winery to plant Sauvignon Blanc grapes in Marlborough and produces a range of award-winning wines. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyards and winery, followed by a tasting of their wines.
3. Allan Scott Family Winemakers: This family-owned winery has been producing wine in Marlborough for over 30 years and is known for its excellent Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyards and winery, followed by a tasting of their wines.
4. Wairau River Wines: Wairau River Wines is a family-owned winery that produces a range of excellent wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyards and winery, followed by a tasting of their wines.
5. Greywacke: Founded by renowned winemaker Kevin Judd, Greywacke is a boutique winery that produces a range of high-quality wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyards and winery, followed by a tasting of their wines.

The Marlborough region is a wine lover’s paradise, and there are plenty of excellent wineries and vineyards to visit. Whether you’re a fan of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or Pinot Noir, you’re sure to find something to suit your taste. So, be sure to add a visit to one or more of these wineries to your itinerary when you’re planning your trip to Marlborough.

The Queen Charlotte Track

The Queen Charlotte Track is one of the most popular hiking trails in New Zealand, and for good reason. This 70-kilometer track takes hikers through some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the Marlborough region. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the Queen Charlotte Track and what you can expect if you choose to hike it.

The trail starts in Ship Cove, which is named after Captain James Cook’s visit in 1770, and ends in Anakiwa. The track takes you through lush forests, over hills, and along the stunning coastline of the Marlborough Sounds. Along the way, you’ll pass through several bays and coves, each with its own unique character and charm.

The track can be hiked in three to five days, depending on your pace and level of fitness. There are several accommodation options along the way, including campsites, lodges, and homestays. Some hikers choose to carry their own gear and camp along the way, while others opt for a more comfortable stay in a lodge or homestay.

One of the highlights of the Queen Charlotte Track is the wildlife. The Marlborough Sounds are home to a diverse range of marine life, including dolphins, seals, and penguins. Keep your eyes peeled as you hike, and you may be lucky enough to spot some of these animals.

If you’re not up for a multi-day hike, there are several shorter walks you can do along the Queen Charlotte Track. One popular option is the Ship Cove to Resolution Bay walk, which takes about three hours and offers stunning views of the Marlborough Sounds.

The Track is a must-do activity if you’re visiting the Marlborough region. With stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and a range of accommodation options, it’s the perfect way to experience the natural beauty of this part of New Zealand. So, pack your hiking boots and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on the Queen Charlotte Track.