If an ultra-luxe alpine sanctuary is on your list when you visit New Zealand, then Matakauri Lodge is by far one of the best luxury options on the South Island.

Matakauri Lodge is just a seven minute drive from the lovely resort town of Queenstown, but feels completely isolated and worlds away.  It is nestled on the shore of the stunning waters of Lake Wakatipu, and boasts uninterrupted views of the big three: The Remarkables, and Cecil and Walter Peaks.

This intimate alpine lodge contains only 12 beautiful suites and the four-bedroom Owner’s Cottage. Every suite offers its own private porch, bedroom with sitting area and open fireplace, walk-in wardrobe and bathroom with twin vanities and oversized bath tub.   The suites are nestled in a native forest overlooking Lake Wakatipu and the mountain panorama.  Styled by acclaimed interior designer Virginia Fisher, every suite also features high-speed wireless Internet, fully stocked mini-bar, air conditioning, flat screen LCD TV, DVD player, CD player with iPod connection and security safe.

The four-bedroom Owner’s Cottage is the crème de la crème of private luxury in Queenstown, and has hosted royalty, celebrities, and world-class athletes.  If you don’t feel like making in to the dining room for dinner, you can have the Matakauri Lodge Head Chef Jonathan Rogers come in to cook you a private dinner or help with the ultimate dinner party by using locally grown ingredients and of course a selection of carefully curated local wines.

The lodge also has a wonderful spa that takes full advantage of local ingredients in its healing treatments, and just outside the spa and gym you can soak in the panorama from their lovely heated infinity swimming pool or hot tub. Yoga, Pilates and Personal Training are available by appointment.

This property (along with two prestigious others) are owned by New York financier and philanthropist Julian Robertson and family and managed by son Julian ‘Jay’ Robertson. They are some of the most awarded and acclaimed luxury destinations in the world, and are part of the Relais & Chateaux portfolio.

The spaces throughout Matakauri Lodge are welcoming and unstuffy where guests can relax within stylish lounges featuring roaring open fires, a lovely patio, and cozy library.

Matakauri Lodge has received numerous awards and I highly recommend it to my clients.  When I book your next stay here, you will enjoy the following Virtuoso amenities:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Daily full breakfast, for up to two in room guests
• $100 USD Equivalent Spa Services credit
• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

If you have any questions about this property or planning a trip to New Zealand in general, feel free to reach out to me at ane@strongtravel.com.