At the heart of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail, Martinborough is a charming historic community surrounded by bountiful family-owned vineyards, famed for producing some of world’s best pinot noir. A brilliant destination for wine lovers and foodies, the area is also a favourite amongst keen walkers, riders and cyclists. Accommodation options include heritage hotels as well as chic resorts, with the best places to stay in Martinborough priding themselves on offering top-notch regional food and wine. Perfect for a dream holiday!

Just an hour from Wellington, Martinborough has a lovely, laid-back vibe. Begin your explorations in the quaint village square, and pop into trendy cafés, eateries and boutiques as you wander around. Many of the surrounding wineries also boast excellent restaurants, ideal for sampling seasonal produce with a glass or three of homegrown wine. Join a guided Martinborough Gourmet Wine Tour, or hop on a bicycle and follow self-guided maps indicating the trails which weave between dozens of vineyards. Keen hikers will enjoy the ancient rock formations of the Patuna Chasm Walk, or discovering Ngawi and the dramatic South East Coast of Tora. The Cape Palliser Lighthouse is well worth the journey, and fishing on Lake Ferry is great fun!

Annual festivals include Toast Martinborough, the Music Festival, the Harvest Festival and the Martinborough Fair. Book your trip well in advance if travelling at these times, as the best places to stay in Martinborough tend to fill up fast.

The Best Places to Stay in Martinborough

For Historic Charm

• The Martinborough Hotel is a historic property in the heart of Martinborough. Think pretty whitewashed interiors with big cosy beds, floral accents and elegant claw-foot tubs. The acclaimed Union Square Bistro & Bar serves modern NZ flavours with a French twist, perfect for keen foodies or friends gathering together after days of wine tasting.

For Group Trips or Events

• Parehua Resort offers a collection of cottages — some with two bedrooms — amongst rolling vineyards. With extensive events spaces, this is a lovely choice for a wedding or large party. Groups will enjoy gathering in a contemporary cottage, cooking up a storm in the kitchen, playing a game of tennis or unwinding in a private hot tub. The York Bistro is also fabulous.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Wellington Airport and travel to Martinborough by car, train or bus via Featherston. This should take just over an hour.
• The wine country is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the spring or summer (October to March) for the best weather, with temperatures peaking at around 20°C.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Wellington.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the North Island.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.