Virtuoso Best of the Best 2009 - 93
otAhunA LodGe Christchurch, New Zealand At the exclusive country estate that is Otahuna Lodge, you’ll feel as if you own the place. With just seven suites set in the ornate main lodge, there’s ample room to spread out, and the attentive staff treats you as family. Enjoy the pleasures of your suite, from deep bathtubs and Penhaligon’s of London bath amenities to an ornate original fireplace. Venture onto the grounds for a guided garden tour; each season brings with it new blooms . . . daffodils in September, vibrant gold and red foliage in May. The lodge offers mountain bikes perfect for exploring local villages. dIStAnCe FroM ChrIStChurCh AIrPort (ChC): vIrtuoSo AMenIty Gourmet picnic with fresh produce from the gardens and bottle of New Zealand wine. In the know Go foraging for porcini mushrooms with one of the Lodge’s chefs, or sample one of many vine-ripened tomato varietals in the Potager Garden. 20 minutes 93 the FArM At CAPe kIdnAPPerS Hawkes Bay, New Zealand Cape Kidnappers discovered by Captain James Cook in 1769, features some of the most dramatic coastline in New Zealand. Worldly travelers know it as the home to The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, a 6,000-acre working sheep and cattle farm on land that plunges 800 feet straight into the sea. Cottage accommodations open to stunning Pacific views and feature every creature comfort one could wish for. When you’re not traipsing the grounds on foot, by bicycle or by four-wheel drive, tee off on the award-winning golf course where each hole offers ocean views – promising to thrill golfers of all levels. dIStAnCe FroM nAPIer AIrPort (nPe): ASIA & PACI F I C vIrtuoSo AMenIty Exclusive 90-minute 4WD Cape Kidnappers & Gannet Tour. In the know Have an early breakfast in the Loggia and be one of the first people in the world to welcome the new day as the sun rises over Hawke’s Bay. 45 minutes whArekAuhAu Country eStAte Martinborough, New Zealand Your cottage suite at Wharekauhau Country Estate will feel like the country hideaway you’ve always wanted. Dotted throughout the sprawling estate, the cottages boast rich New Zealand wool carpeting, fully stocked bars and king-sized four-poster beds. Make your way to The Lodge to mingle with other discerning travelers while enjoying a superb glass of wine and a meal based on local specialties – Wharekauhau Texel rack of lamb and artisan cheeses, perhaps? Stretch your legs while hiking, biking, horseback riding or claytarget shooting. It’s little wonder this is considered one of the world’s top 20 resort hideaways. dIStAnCe FroM weLLInGton AIrPort (wLG): vIrtuoSo AMenIty NZD100 (approx. US$65) credit valid for any on-site activity, once per stay. In the know Go beach fishing or take an estate tour with Mr. Joe, a Wharekauhau legend and true “kiwi bloke” with great stories. 120 mi/193 km