Blanket Bay

We had an outstanding two night stay at Blanket Bay and wish we were there even longer. The stand out of the hotel is the staff, they are truly above and beyond and we felt we would struggle to match their brilliance else where. From the moment you arrive you feel like you’ve arrived somewhere special, you are greeted with a warm smile and tour of the property, then guided to your room with your luggage neatly stowed away. There is no formal check in process and chargeable items are billed to your room using your first name so you never need to sign anything. Whilst dangerous for the wallet, the lack of a transactional feeling makes it feel like you are a guest in someone’s house. Dinner is included in the stay, the food is expectational with set menu items changing every night. Even though it was cold outside, you can comfortably sit outside for dinner taking in the breathtaking scenery due to the many heaters, blankets and fires around to warm you up. We stayed in a chalet suite, although a bit dated and slightly tired, it was extremely clean and comfortable with amazing views. We can’t really fault the hotel and its team, we loved every second of our stay apart from having to leave at the end!

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.

Blanket Bay was an amazing experience. Customer service was excellent. Meeting other guests during cocktail hour was so enjoyable. I’m glad we had 4 nights there. The rooms are old school (don’t expect a desk) and well maintained so a guest has to be happy with the “ lodge” feel. The property is large and beautiful. Gorgeous views of the lake. Food is excellent. The accommodated my food allergies and once I thought they could have been more creative for my substitution. We did a helicopter tour of the Southern Alps. The helicopter picks you up on the front lawn. It was an amazing experience!! Dart boat adventure was ok, too long. Hiking is great!!