We happen to think that Marlborough is the best little place on earth, and we’re fairly certain you’re going to love it too. Because we’re such a helpful lot we’ve pulled together a hit list of spots you don’t want to miss while you’re here. Bring on May 2021!
The best spots to rest your head
Air BnB – Our favourite app to find a vineyard cottage for the weekend, there’s so many options and did we mention so much wine to try?!
Marlborough Vintners Hotel – Just across the road from the Vines Village Cafe V12 start line, this hideaway amongst the vines has stylish suites and a restaurant on site.
Of course, you can find something for every taste and budget on marlboroughnz.com
Where to start your day
Vines Village Café – The Vines does a breakfast that is hard to beat and they’ve got all the bases covered (vege, keto, gluten free). Plus they serve up tasty Coffee Supreme for that all-important caffeine hit.
BV Gourmet – There’s a small considered menu, good coffee and tea and a great selection of smoothies to choose from. While you’re there browse the deli selection and pick up some local foodie treats.
Herb & Olive – This stylish little café is perfectly formed, offering Kokako coffee, smoothies and a menu of seasonal and organic local produce.
Lunch
Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen – of course! Epic wine and delicious food, with the added bonus of being our race hub.
Thomas’s and Sons – The perfect central lunch spot. Enjoy Atomic espresso and grab something from the cabinet, or order off the menu. Even better, browse the selection of local and international fashion and homeware while you wait!
Rockferry – A local favourite, this winery restaurant is famous for its delicious, seasonal menu and organic wines.
Wither Hills – Just a hop from town, this stylish restaurant offers warm hospitality and a mouth-watering menu.
Brancott – Visit for the views (the best in town) and the fit out, plus tasty food and wine.
Dinner
Arbour – We can’t get enough of lovely Liz Buttimore and Bradley Hornby’s restaurant. Their daily changing set menu showcases local produce and their wine list includes all the best local drops. Book now.
Harvest Restaurant at The Marlborough Lodge – Set in perfectly manicured grounds, this picturesque restaurant serves up an impressive drinks list and a mouth-watering menu that consistently changes with the availability of fresh produce.
Brooklyn Burger & Meat Co – Epic burgers, hand cut fries and their famous fried chicken. Plus a great selection of local beer. Need we say more?
Scotch Wine Bar – One of the best wine lists around and a seasonal sharing menu that changes every week. Go for the drinks and then stay for the food. A local favourite.
Yard Bar – If you’re after good pizza, live music and a party vibe, then check this place out. A good spot to go with a few mates.
Explore
Stay an extra day and venture a little further afield. Explore some of the many vineyards in Marlborough and experience some more of our delicious local wine. You can book yourself a bike tour and choose your own itinerary, or take the more leisurely option (for any sore legs) and jump on board a guided day out with Marlborough Wine Tours.
A visit to Marlborough isn’t complete without experiencing the Marlborough Sounds. For a guided day trip we love Marlborough Tour Company. If you’ve got an extra day stay overnight in one of the Marlborough Sounds lodges, pick from Lochmara Lodge, Furneaux Lodge and Punga Cove. Trust us you won’t regret it.
Looking for the perfect memento of your weekend in paradise? Makana Confections hand-make a selection of chocolate and treats on site. Warning, their Macadamia Butter Toffee Crunch is completely addictive. That’s why we run, right? And you can’t leave town without spending some time browsing the racks of local and international fashion and homeware at Thomas’s, the selection is world class, bring your credit card!
