Blanket Bay

We stayed a night here as part of our New Zealand road trip to get a night’s luxury on our trip, and it certainly gave us that. The hotel is a bit like a Scottish lodge with lots of stone and wood, very cosy. The rooms and the hotel overlook the lake, it’s a stunning location. We had the dinner and breakfast package, the food was excellent. Staff were very friendly and helpful. There’s also a games room where you can play pool, darts etc. and help yourself to drinks, and also there’s walks you can do around the hotel, plus Glenorchy village is a short drive away

Blanket Bay is outstanding in every way. We knew we were in for a treat when we were greeted on arrival and given a personal tour of the lodge rather than taken to a desk to fill in paperwork. The experience was warm, luxurious and non-transactional - it was more like staying with old friends who just happen to own a majestic lakeside lodge than with a hotel chain where you are customer #2898301. The lodge is stunning, inside and out. Our room had a huge balcony overlooking the lake and mountains, and whilst the inside of the room lacked a little natural light, we didn't mind at all. It was so peaceful. I don't usually sleep well in hotels, but I slept deeply at Blanket Bay. Each and every staff member was so warm, friendly, and authentic. Their personalities shone, as did their passion for the property and their roles within it. We actually missed them all after we left. I can't remember making connections like that at any other hotel. The lodge itself is beautifully crafted and sits in a location that feels like you are stepping into a dream. We took a a helicopter tour to Milford Sound, returning via a glacier, and getting picked up from the lawn definitely felt like a rock star moment. The food was incredible - changing menus every night - and the pre-dinner cocktails (and lunchtime cocktails, we did indulge in everything) were outstanding. Our only disappointment was that we weren't able to order any extra oysters - but we will ask for them beforehand when we visit again and make sure the kitchen has a few spare. Within a few days of leaving, we'd already booked our next visit. We can't wait to return and experience the lodge in summertime!

What an amazing experience. I've been wanting to try this lodge for years, and finally just decided to splurge and go on my own - so pleased I did. Where do you start? The location is amazing - mountain range opposite, Lake Wakatipu in front, pristine, and silent. Absolutely gorgeous. Then the lodge and the room. Just lovely. Laid back and comfortable, fire burning in the main guest lounge through the day, grab your book and sit in front of it, or on the other side and just gaze. Rooms all over the place - a games room, a spa etc. but I didn't feel the need. My room was also great - always find it amusing when a bathroom is almost as big as the room itself but hey, why not. And having a verandah was perfect. And then there's the staff, starting with Managers Andrew and Steph (asst), and then all the way through the stay, with special call outs to Damien, Duncan & Nina (though there were many others). The pre-dinner drinks are an opportunity to meet other guests (or not), the food (how did it take me this long to get to the food???) is extraordinary, and they easily catered to my pescatarian requirements, and I still dream of the bread. Seriously that good. Is it expensive? Yes, it is - but that is reflected in the standard, the service, the amenities. And if you get the chance to take the recommended helicopter ride to Mt Tutoka and then on to Milford Sound, do yourself a favour - not only is it spectacular, but being picked up on the front lawn is very special indeed. All up, couldn't recommend Blanket Bay more, and hope to return when there is more snow - I'd think nothing could beat the feeling of being 'snowed in' here!! Thank you for a very memorable few days.

An absolutely incredible stay at an amazing property. All aspects were perfection. The food each night was beyond incredible with wonderful rotating menus. The chef was also happy to accommodate a change based on preferences. Additionally the staff was super helpful in planning activities. The spa is also incredible here. Make sure to plan time for a massage. It’s simply life changing.

This hotel is truly outstanding. From the gracious welcome to the final moment, we loved every second of our two nights. We didn’t want to leave. Superb staff; beautiful lodge ambiance; lovely rooms; great atmosphere; fantastic views; beautiful dining spots; great food and a special cocktail gathering. Every effort was made to make us feel special including arrangement of trips and celebration of my husband’s birthday and our anniversary. We will definitely return if we can. If you go to the South Island do not miss this hotel