"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe?
It's nearly impossible to take your eyes off Wakatipu, the arresting lake that Queenstown's entire travel industry is built around. When arriving at Matakauri's regal grounds, just outside the town center, that lake view is firmly in place (and just wait till you see it through the resort's floor-to-ceiling windows from bed). But then attention shifts to the tasteful estate, all white woods and manicured grounds. It feels subtle instead of showy. They know the real star is the natural surrounding and have done everything to be worthy of the company rather than steal the spotlight. Something about the world's most beautiful nature paired with the sophistication of the resort makes you want to forego the urge for flip flops or bare feet you find elsewhere in
New Zealand
and actually dress for dinner. Though, this being New Zealand, the flip flops may still go down just fine.
What's the backstory?
Matakauri is owned by Robertson Lodges, from American billionaire Julian Robertson whose collection includes the equally wonderful Kauri Cliffs and Cape Kidnappers in the North Island.
Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book?
Full disclosure: I was in the Owners Cottage which is every bit as opulent as you would expect. Spaced out across several rooms with a fully functional kitchen and the living rooms of your mountain lodge dreams, it is more like your own apartment than a hotel room. There are merino wool throws draped over leather chairs facing out to The Remarkables (yup, that's the name of the mountain range across the lake, no need to explain what it's named for...) and plush couches to sink into with a bottle of local Otago Pinot Noir. Everything is perfect—and manages to be both comfy and swanky. It's nice enough to be über cautious about spilling your red wine, but cozy enough to feel like, if you did, it would not be the end of the world.
Is there a charge for Wi-Fi?
Free and good.
Drinking and dining—what are we looking at?
There is a wonderful on-site restaurant, showcasing the best version of New Zealand's produce: think Akaroa salmon and tender lamb, with some of the country's best wine. It is a tad formal so if you're not feeling like a three-course meal each night, you are better off eating in the town. Just be sure to allow for at least one dinner at Matakauri, as the quality is really special and worth the price.
And the service?
Very smooth. The Robertson Lodges follow a traditional, silver service approach, which is never a bad thing—although it can sometimes feel at odds with New Zealand's typically laid back culture. That does not mean to say it feels jarring here—it certainly doesn't—but it will feel noticeably different from the places you would have stayed at elsewhere in the country before arrival. Anything you would want to do in the greater environs can be organized through the concierge, including private wine tasting in the Otago Winelands and helicopter rides to the peaks across the lake.
What type of travelers will you find here?
You're in the company of wealthy, but adventurous travelers: Russians who want to soak in the mountaintop hot springs, Americans excited to explore Franz Josef Glacier. It is the type of company that may feel formal in other circumstances but New Zealand has a way of making everyone feel as though they have loosened their proverbial tie just enough to get relaxed and friendly.
Is there anything you'd change?
It could benefit from extra amenities but the lake is so spectacular there may not be a need to distract from it.
Bottom line: Worth it? Why?
The premier lodge in the southern hemisphere's adventure capital makes sure you do it right." - Erin Florio
