Best Places to Stay in the Marlborough Region

The Marlborough Region isn’t just a destination for hiking, cruising, and wine tasting — it’s also home to some of the most unique and memorable accommodation in Aotearoa. From luxury vineyard retreats to eco-lodges tucked into native bush, there’s something for every kind of traveller. These best places to stay in the Marlborough Region showcase comfort, character and a strong connection to the land and sea.

1. The Marlborough – Boutique Vineyard Luxury

Set in a lovingly restored historic convent, The Marlborough offers boutique luxury in the heart of wine country. Surrounded by vineyards and gardens, it’s an elegant escape where gourmet dining, fine wines and refined comfort come together. Guests can relax by the heated pool, wander through the grounds or simply enjoy the peace of this charming retreat.

⭐ Highlights

• Boutique hotel with vineyard views
• Gourmet restaurant with Marlborough wine pairings
• Heated outdoor pool and landscaped gardens
• Perfect base for exploring Marlborough wineries and Blenheim

2. Lochmara Lodge – Eco-Retreat on the Water

Accessible only by boat or via the Queen Charlotte Track, Lochmara Lodge is an eco-retreat that blends adventure with relaxation. It offers cozy accommodation, an onsite wildlife recovery centre and activities like kayaking, paddleboarding and snorkelling. Guests can also explore an art and sculpture trail or simply relax in a hammock by the shore.

⭐ Highlights

• Boat or hiking access only
• Wildlife recovery projects and art trails onsite
• Water activities: kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkelling
• Lochmara Café with fresh, local cuisine

3. Furneaux Lodge – Historic Sounds Retreat

Nestled at the head of Endeavour Inlet, Furneaux Lodge is a peaceful retreat that combines history with natural beauty. Built in the early 1900s, the lodge offers charming cottages and suites surrounded by native forest and lawns that sweep down to the water’s edge. It’s also a key stop on the Queen Charlotte Track, making it a favourite for hikers.

⭐ Highlights

• Historic lodge with waterfront views
• Cottages, suites and shared backpacker-style accommodation
• Access to the Queen Charlotte Track
• Restaurant serving local seafood and Marlborough wines

4. Bay of Many Coves – Secluded Five-Star Hideaway

For those looking to indulge, the Bay of Many Coves Resort is a five-star luxury stay hidden deep in Queen Charlotte Sound. Villas overlook the turquoise water, while the resort offers fine dining, spa treatments and private access to walking tracks. Arrive by water taxi or helicopter for a truly unforgettable experience.

⭐ Highlights

• Luxury resort with private villas
• Fine dining restaurant and day spa
• Exclusive walking tracks and jetty access
• Remote, secluded setting in Queen Charlotte Sound

5. Hopewell Lodge – Laid-Back Seaside Escape

On the tranquil shores of Kenepuru Sound, Hopewell Lodge is an award-winning boutique lodge that offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Guests can enjoy kayaking, mountain biking or simply unwinding in a hammock by the water. Known for its community feel, Hopewell combines comfort with a true Kiwi holiday spirit.

⭐ Highlights

• Award-winning lodge on Kenepuru Sound
• Water activities, mountain biking and hammocks for lazy afternoons
• Social, welcoming vibe perfect for solo travellers and groups
• Mix of private rooms and shared options

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re dreaming of vineyard luxury, an eco-retreat by the water or a laid-back lodge deep in the Sounds, these stays show off the rich diversity of the best places to stay in the Marlborough Region. Each one brings you closer to the land, sea and culture of this unique region.

🌍 Travel Planning Resources

These are the tools we personally use and trust when planning our travels from finding a place to stay to booking activities, transport and insurance. Let your Tohu guide you — Trust the Journey and follow what feels right for you.

• ✈️Flights – Compare great deals with Trip.com then Kiwi.com for flexible, affordable options.
• 🚐 Campervans – Compare rental deals with Motorhome Republic across Aotearoa and beyond.
• 🛏️ Stays – Compare hotels on Trip.com and TripAdvisor or Booking.com.
• 🚐 Rental Cars – Compare prices and book through Airport Rentals by Motorhome Republic for trusted brands and easy airport pickup.
• 🎟️ Activities – Browse tours and experiences on Viator, Get Your Guide, or TripAdvisor
• 🚆12Go Asia – Compare and book trains, buses, and ferries across Asia in one place with 12Go.
• 🛡️ Travel Insurance – Get flexible short-term coverage with Insubuy for your next holiday.
• 🔒 Protect Your Privacy with a VPN – We recommend Surfshark VPN for secure and private browsing while travelling. It’s fast, affordable and works worldwide — perfect for public Wi-Fi at airports, cafes and hotels.
• 📱 Travel eSIM – Stay connected with Airalo
• 💼 Lounge Access – Treat yourself with Priority Pass – for UK or US
• 🎶 Events & Concerts – Book tickets worldwide through Ticketmaster.

🧭 Note: Some booking links can be a bit shy when you’re using a VPN. If one doesn’t open, try pausing your VPN or switching to a different server location or secure Wi-Fi network to get things flowing again.