The Marlborough Lodge is a charming boutique hotel with just 10 rooms in the middle of New Zealand’s Marlborough wine region. It’s tranquil and secluded, and a lovely spot to use as a base to explore the surroundings — a glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc will be waiting upon your return. Soar by helicopter over the Marlborough Sounds before arriving on D’Urville Island for fly-fishing. The island is located off the northern coast of the South Island, and was discovered by French explorer Jules Dumont D’Urville. At just 58 square miles and with around 50 residents, it’s secluded and mysterious, and is one of the country’s best fishing locations.
A guaranteed catch
Landing on a remote outcrop, you’ll be in the best spot for a guaranteed catch. While the fish may not be the biggest you’ve ever seen, they are certainly plentiful and always biting — blue cod and trout abound. Armed with your catch of the day, you’ll reboard the helicopter and fly to a remote bay for a lunch of blue cod sashimi and grilled blue cod, washed down with fine wine. On the flight back to the lodge, you’ll fly via Mount Richmond Forest Park and over the Wairau Valley.
From $1,750 per night. Contact Angela Dillon, general manager & owner, reservations@themarlboroughlodge.co.nz, +63 357 057 00, themarlboroughlodge.co.nz
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