This historic family mansion has been converted into a superb luxury lodge boasting spectacular views over Lake Rotorua and towards Mokoia Island. Donkeys, miniature ponies, sheep and an alpaca roam the tranquil gardens and make it hard to believe that the city of Rotorua is less than a ten minute drive away. Famous for its traditional Maori culture, Rotorua is home to bubbling mud pools, geysers and hot thermal springs. There are plenty of activities at the lodge to keep you busy. Challenge your partner to a game of tennis, burn some calories at the fitness centre, go boating on the lake or fish for rainbow trout off the private beach. Or you can simply relax and soak up the natural beauty and serenity. Unwind during a therapeutic massage at the spa, curl up with a good book in the library or relax around the open fireplace in the communal lounge. Meal times are a delight, with home-cooked meals, accompanied by wine from the lodge's cellar, served in the main dining room, the private dining room (reservation required), in the privacy of your room, or on the terrace overlooking the lake. The classic suites each feature cosy underfloor heating, a living area and a large bathroom with spa bath. The Lodge Suites are located in the main house and all but one have lake views. Main Suites have panoramic views over the lake, a large lounge and dining area, and a spacious balcony. Lake Cottage Suites are set back from the lodge, offering more privacy, and they feature an open-air hot tub on a deck overlooking the lake.
Wonderfully secluded on a private peninsula surrounded by native bush, this lodge offers a peaceful escape into nature just outside of Rotorua. As one of New Zealand’s first luxury lodges, the beautiful Solitaire Lodge has a long-standing reputation for excellence. From the moment you arrive and lay your eyes on the spellbinding lake views, you’ll feel yourself relax, and the welcoming hosts make you feel like a guest in a friend’s home. Experience the simple pleasure that comes from immersing yourself in your natural surroundings with lake swimming from Solitaire’s private beach or taking a boat over to a secluded thermal pool or hot water beach. Guests are welcome to use the lodge’s motorised dinghies and kayaks, or you could hike or cycle to the beautiful Whakarewarewa forest. Spot native birds such as tuis and kereru, or try your hand at trout fishing from the jetty. Don’t miss the daily pre-dinner drinks and canapés that are complemented with regional wines. Gourmands are in for a treat at the fine-dining restaurant which serves modern cuisine made with local produce and garnished with herbs from the lodge’s garden. There is a real emphasis on seasonal produce and a lot of thought has gone into creating the daily-changing menus. At breakfast you can dig into fruit platters, freshly-baked croissants and breads, and enjoy à la carte cooked options. Light lunches can be enjoyed from the deck with dramatic views over the lake to Mount Tarawera and if you’re heading out for the day then you can request a picnic. The five-course dinners offer the best seasonal vegetables served with prime New Zealand meat and fish. The luxury suites are light and airy with a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows, free Wi-Fi and panoramic views of the lake or bay. Executive Suites have a bath by a picture window so that you can soak in the warm water while gazing out across the lake. The Tarawera Suite is double the size and has a split-level design and sitting and dining areas. If you’re travelling as a family or small group then the incredible two-storey detached Villa Suite is perfect and is available as a one or two bedroom suite with a living room and kitchenette.
Regent of Rotorua dates back to a 1950s motel and has been superbly renovated in keeping with the original style, but with a luxurious and distinctly boutique feel. There’s a small pool framed by an immaculate manicured lawn with sun loungers, and the rooms are beautifully chic – think white walls, dark grey floors and modern amenities including a minibar, microwave, iPod docking station and flat-screen TV. The hotel is also only a three-minute drive from the mock-Tudor Rotorua Museum, said to be the most photographed building in New Zealand. Head to The Regent Room and enjoy contemporary New Zealand cuisine across a wide selection of menus including degustation, à la carte lunch specials and an extensive wine list. The restaurant has a sleek black and white interior, with superb chandeliers, plush leather seats and bar stools and a beautiful indoor-outdoor fireplace, framed by a pair of striking rhino heads. During the summer you can dine al fresco out in the courtyard, or stay cosy in the winter on one of the elegant French sofas.
Peppers on the Point, Rotorua
Solitaire Lodge
Regent of Rotorua
