Hotels in Marlborough

For many, the name Marlborough is synonymous with Sauvignon Blanc. This sun-drenched region at the top of New Zealand's South Island is the country's largest wine-producing area, where rows of vines stretch across the Wairau and Awatere valleys. The main town, Blenheim, is your practical base, but the real magic lies in the cellar doors along Rapaura Road and the stunning marine life of the Marlborough Sounds. A boat cruise from Picton to see dolphins or walk a section of the Queen Charlotte Track is an essential counterpoint to a day of wine tasting.

This is a relaxed destination perfect for couples and food-loving travellers, though families enjoy the interactive exhibits at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. Most visitors fly into Wellington and take the scenic Interislander ferry across Cook Strait to Picton, or connect via domestic flights to Blenheim's small airport. Staying in Blenheim puts you within easy walking distance of restaurants and a short drive to most vineyards, while Picton offers a charming waterfront setting for those focused on the Sounds.

On HOTEVI, you'll find around eight hotels listed for the region, ranging from convenient motels and comfortable vineyard cottages to a handful of upscale lodges set amongst the vines themselves. Your choice really depends on whether you want to be steps from a restaurant or waking up to a view of your own private pinot noir grapes.