The Hotel Guru
The 8 Best Wine Hotels in Otago

The 8 Best Wine Hotels in Otago

Otago is a testament to New Zealand’s diverse natural magic, a romantic landscape of rolling hills, rivers and snow-capped mountains, Edwardian towns, lush vineyards and blue penguin colonies. Central Otago's unique climate makes it a great grape-growing region. It’s the most southerly of all wine-growing regions in the world, and the purity of the soil is enviable, farmed now by Otago’s third generation of winemakers in vineyards sprawling over green terraces and river valleys. The low rainfall and the microclimates all over Central Otago render the risk of diseases minimal, making it one of the best places in the world to make wine. The best wine hotels in Otago embody the diversity of the region, from luxurious modern lodges to snug farmhouse cottages. Some of Otago’s best wine hotels are working vineyards, so guests can observe close-up life on a working vineyard — the rest are all perfect for wine tours and tastings. Most importantly, the best wine hotels in Otego all boast stunning views of the natural world.

For a working vineyard

Mt Michael Lodge, a working vineyard, is a luxurious, boutique lodge. Guests can imagine themselves in the life of a winemaker, tour the vineyards, and breathe in the fragrance of the wine cellar. Afterwards, they can detox in the spa, swim in the heated outdoor pool, or drink in the soaring views of the Pisa mountain range.
Kinross Vineyard Cottages is another charming option — a collection of snug, farmhouse cottages situated in a working vineyard. But this winery takes things one step further. Far from merely enjoying the usual tours and tastings, guests can actually participate in the wine-making process. And after, soak in the outdoor hot tub, dine in the stylish bistro, or just rent some bikes and head into the mountains.

Romantic getaway

Stoneridge Estate, a medieval-style stone lodge, is situated amidst vineyards near Lake Hayes. It's a rare find. From its landscaped gardens, to its infinity pool, five course degustation menus and its on-site chapel, it’s got romance at its core. Then there’s the lake and mountain views, and its close proximity to several wineries...
Tin Tub Luxury Lodge is another enchanting choice for couples. Stood on a hill, this alpine-style hideaway is the perfect place for romance, intimacy, and homely comforts. Soak in the outdoor hot tub after a game of tennis or a swim in the pool. Feel dreamily lost in the majestic mountain views from the terrace with a glass of local wine. Spacious, smart and surrounded by gorgeous scenery, it's a must for couples!

For a luxury stay

Gibbston Valley Lodge and Spa is luxurious, modern lodge stood in a sea of vineyards in the heart of the Gibbston Valley. With its on-site spa, fine-dining restaurant, private wine tastings and easily-accessible vineyard tours, it’s a plush, smart choice for well-heeled oenophiles.

For a rustic farmhouse

Wanaka Homestead, a charming, rustic homestead near Lake Wanaka, offers peace and traditional kiwi lifestyle, with its BBQ, heated pool and mountain views. The spa, and Wanaka Homestead’s easy access to wine tours and tastings, makes it a fine choice for wine-lovers seeking some rural peace.
Waiorau Homestead is another rustic farm-style stay, a charming country hotel in the heart of the Cardrona Valley, framed by mountains and tranquil nature. It’s a great base for exploring the region, as it’s close to many boutique wineries in Central Otago. Better still are the gourmet breakfasts, the hot tub, outdoor pool and the tennis court.
Enjoy breathtaking mountain views from the elegant, rustic Limetree Lodge in the heart of Central Otago. It’s a posh affair, think gourmet breakfasts, scented gardens, a library, and easy access to wine tours and tastings.

Still not sure?

Try our list of 5-star hotels on North Island
Or our collection of the best hotels in Southland
There's also our top picks of Auckland's most romantic hotels to consider
For other similar properties, try this guide to the best wine hotels in Canterbury or New Zealand;
Expand your search to include all our properties in New Zealand;
Contact one of our Gurus for advice.
- Mt Michael Lodge Cromwell, South Island 4 rooms from CA$418
  
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  Boutique  -  The four-room property offers sleek boutique design with simple minimalist style and plenty of luxury trimmings
  Country Escape  -  A stylish rural escape set in an expansive vineyard - it doesn't really get much better than this!
  Romantic Break  -  Think hot tubs, sink-into-beds, mountain views and plenty of good wine
  Private Hot Tub  -  Book the Lake View or Dunstan room for your patio with private hot tub
  
  Set amidst a Pinot Noir vineyard, this is a sleek boutique property perfect for a rural hideaway. The four rooms are minimalist in design with floor to ceiling windows and sliding doors leading on to private terraces. Spend days in the great outdoors before returning for a soak in the hot tub. See More
  
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- Kinross Vineyard Cottages Queenstown (R.D 1) 14 rooms from CA$261
  
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  Foodies  -  Food & wine lovers will adore the bistro's culinary creations, and Kinross' role as the offical Cellar Door for local wineries
  Wine tasting  -  Complimentary wine tastings at 5pm, sampling wines by Kinross' partners: Coal Pit, Hawkshead, Kinross, Valli & Wild Irishman
  Country Escape  -  Hide away in the countryside, surrounded by wineries and epic mountain views, just 25 minutes from Queenstown
  Skiing  -  The 3 ski fields of Cardrona, Coronet Peak & the Remarkables are 45 minutes away
  
  Set on 40 lush acres, Kinross Cottages offers 14 spacious studios with floor-to-ceiling windows and modern interiors overlooking the vineyards. Feast at the bistro, enjoy free wine tastings — Kinross is the Cellar Door for 5 boutique wineries — and hike or bike. For couples, friends & families. See More
  
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- Stoneridge Estate Queenstown 9 rooms from CA$438
  
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  Country Escape  -  Set on a beautiful vineyard & surrounded by mountains, this is an idyllic rural retreat
  Wine tasting  -  Follow the Queenstown Wine Trail, beginning at Stoneridge's own Cellar Door
  Views  -  Stunning views over Lake Hayes to the mountains beyond.
  Weddings  -  A sublime spot for an intimate wedding or elopement
  Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels
  
  A small boutique hotel set on a picturesque vineyard with spectacular mountain views. Choose a contemporary or traditional suite, feast on local produce with the 5-course degustation menu, and relax in the hot tub. Ideal for intimate weddings, adventurous holidays & wine tasting holidays. See More
  
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- Tin Tub Luxury Lodge Wanaka 5 rooms from CA$304
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Book a luxurious lodge room with a private sitting area, whirlpool tub & terrace — ideal for couples
  Active Holiday  -  Play tennis, swim or hit the gym onsite, before days of skiing, rafting, kayaking or mountain biking
  Tennis  -  Play a game of tennis with friends or family — the Lodge offers complimentary access
  Whirlpool Bathtub  -  The Lodge rooms have big whirlpool bathtubs
  
  A luxury hillside lodge for couples or friends, Tin Tub boasts a pool, gym, tennis court, sauna, ski storage & superb views. High-ceilinged interiors are spacious and smart. Feast on Trish's legendary breakfasts or unwind on the terrace with a glass of local wine. Outdoor tubs are a fun touch! See More
  
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- Gibbston Valley Lodge & Spa Queenstown 24 rooms from CA$691
  
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  Foodies  -  Renowned chef Anthony Gradiska has created a sumptuous fine dining experience accompanied by the best local wines.
  Other Activities  -  Enjoy a picnic for two with a bottle of regional wine especially prepared by the hotel's chef
  Wine tasting  -  Tour the Gibbston Valley's own vineyard, chat to winemakers & taste wines in the cellar
  Spa breaks  -  Winner of New Zealand's Best Resort Spa 2020 & 2021 at the World Spa Awards
  Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels
  
  A small luxury hotel boasting an enviable setting within a Pinot Noir vineyard in Queenstown. Stylish villas offer private sundecks with spectacular views, indulgent bathrooms and open-plan living spaces. With both a spa and private dining on offer, nothing has been missed here. See More
  
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- Wanaka Homestead Wanaka 10 rooms from CA$232
  
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  Groups  -  Special rates for group bookings of up to 21 guests- ideal for weddings, residential courses, conference stays or group holidays
  Country Escape  -  Borrow mountain bikes to explore local scenery, use a BBQ built from local stone and relax under-the-stars in the hot tub
  Self catering  -  Offers a choice of either luxury lodge or self-catering cottage accommodation
  Restrictions on children  -  Family friendly self-contained accommodation in choice of 2 cottages; or luxury boutique adult-only B&B in the main lodge.
  
  A luxury B&B lodge (adult only) and a family-friendly self catering cottage set in a stunning location with mountain views, close to Wanaka Lake. Rural chic interiors are charming. Spend the day in the great outdoors before returning to relax in the hot tub under the stars. See More
  
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- Waiorau Homestead Cardrona (Wanaka) 4 rooms from CA$148
  
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  Skiing  -  Waiorau Homestead is the closest place to stay to Cardrona Ski Resort & Snow Farm Cross Country Skiing
  Active Holiday  -  Perfect for keen riders, skiers and cyclists, as well as those looking to try quad biking
  Groups  -  Book all four rooms for an intimate family or group gathering
  Outstanding location  -  Views of Cardrona Ski Resort and the valley are spectacular
  
  A popular owner-run B&B with three spacious, individually decorated rooms and one studio. Extra beds can be added for kids, who will love the pool & 10-acre garden. Delicious three-course table d'hote dinners using home-grown ingredients. A great base for active families wanting a home-from-home. See More
  
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- Lime Tree Lodge Wanaka 6 rooms from CA$337
  
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  Country Escape  -  Surrounded by mountains and situated near Lake Wanaka this is a scenic spot for a rural break
  Watersports  -  Keen explorers will adore jet boating on the Matukituki, Clutha or Wilkin Rivers
  Wine tasting  -  Take a tour of the nearby world-famous wineries of Rippon, Maude, Archangel
  Groups  -  Book the 4 guestrooms and 2 suites for a lively group trip
  
  A charming lodge set within ten acres of picturesque gardens and grounds, surrounded by the Southern Alps. Six spacious rooms & suites benefit from the spectacular views seen through floor-to-ceiling windows. An intimate B&B that can be booked in its entirety for families or groups. See More
  
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