Old St.Mary's Convent, Lodge Hotel Resort in New Zealand

Hotel on the South Island (Blenheim)

Old St.Mary's Convent

In the heart of Marlborough's wine growing area lies a haven for the discerning traveller, where luxury accommodation and an intimate retreat may be found. Old Saint Mary's Convent is situated on an estate of 20 acres and surrounded on all sides by the vineyards and olive groves Marlborough is famous for. Spring Creek, with its abundant bird life and trout, meanders lazily through the property. It is here, beneath Marlborough's azure sky, that one may spend a pleasant afternoon sipping local vintages and sampling the provincial gourmet fare. A Proud History Designed by Thomas Turnbull and built in 1901 for the Sisters of Mercy, the Convent was originally located next to Saint Mary's Church in Blenheim. It provided nineteen bedrooms for the nuns, a library, music room, sewing room, office and a beautiful chapel upstairs on the first floor. Native timbers were extensively used in the construction including Matai, Rimu and Kauri. One of the many splendid examples of Victorian craftsmanship is the subtantial carved staircase, constructed entirely from Kauri.

In 1994, Mieke and Wilfried Holtrop purchased the Convent and moved it in five pieces to its present location in Rapaura. The task of restoration then began under the guidance of architect Sir Michael Fowler. The interior layout downstairs has remained exactly as it was nearly 100 years ago, retaining its original charm and character. We have a fine collection of 19th and 20th century European and New Zealand art. Accommodation
On the ground floor, the one luxury suite has its own sitting room. Upstairs, three luxury suites have been created, each with spectacular views of the surrounding hills and vineyards. Essential modern conveniences like fire protection sprinklers and a sophisticated heating and air conditioning are cleverly hidden behind the old ceilings, rimu panelling and timbered floors. Each of the four guest rooms has its own ensuite, three with bath. The rooms are very spacious and airy with easy access onto the balcony. Continental or cooked breakfast is served in the large formal dining room. The library with its ornate Kauri fireplace is for the exclusive use of guests. Our large billiard room downstairs has an antique full sized billiard table. Discover Marlborough
Marlborough holds international acclaim for being one of the finest wine regions in the world. The Convent is ideally situated among the vineyards for a tour of the nearby wineries. Those attracted to the water may visit the Marlborough Sounds for water sports or fishing. Your hosts can arrange a trip on the mail boat or a fishing guide to take guests to the perfect spot for trout fishing in one of the local fresh water streams. Other activities include horse trekking, scenic walks and white water rafting. Several excellent golf courses may be found in close proximity to the Convent. In winter, Rainbow skifield offers excellent skiing with terrain suited for all abilities. Transport from the Convent can be arranged which takes approximately 90 minutes along the scenic Wairau Valley. Blenheim has many superb restaurants providing a wide variety of cuisine, while lunches and evening meals are also served at a number of the local wineries. Location
Old Saint Mary's Convent is located just a 10 minute drive from Blenheim or 20-25 minutes from Picton on Rapaura Road. Look for our signage on Rapaura Road.

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