When it’s cold outside, there’s nothing better than finding yourself surrounded by blue skies and fresh, crisp air, and that’s exactly what you can expect from Marlborough in winter. From the calm waters of the Sounds to the lush forest-covered hills, it’s a far cry from damp and dreary. Marlborough is a region at the top of the South Island, known for its impeccable wines, world-class Queen Charlotte Track, and the picturesque waterways of the Marlborough Sounds. With boat cruises, fresh seafood and incredible natural landscapes to explore, Marlborough is a place to stay, play and pause; simply existing in this special part of New Zealand.
Winter in Marlborough is a special kind of magic. The air is crisp, the vineyards are golden, and there’s no better time to slow down and embrace a snug escape. Experience the coast and the forest like never before, with clear night skies for stargazing and the chance to uncover hidden gems in every corner. Whether you’re curled up fireside, soaking in a wood-fired hot tub under the stars, or waking to misty valley views, winter offers the chance to sit by a cosy fire, sample the finest produce, and soak up water views from beautiful accommodation.
From resorts, chateaus and boutique hotels, these are places to stay from Picton to Blenheim and everywhere in between that guarantee a special, memorable experience in this spectacular region.
1. St Leonards Vineyard Cottages
Located in Blenheim, St Leonards Vineyard Cottages is a dreamy winter base surrounded by vineyards and framed by Marlborough’s iconic hills. Find the classic charm of an original Kiwi homestead in Marlborough, with a collection of self-contained cottages full of character and comfort. Set on five acres of landscaped gardens, the property feels tucked away yet is just minutes from some of the region’s best cellar doors. Each cottage is thoughtfully styled, offering warm touches, vineyard views, and the perfect spot to unwind after a day exploring. Spend misty mornings with coffee under the trees and book The Woolshed for crisp evenings stargazing from the private outdoor bath.
Friendly farm animals including sheep, deer, alpacas, and hens roam the grounds, and fresh eggs and seasonal fruit are provided for breakfast. With a heated pool and pétanque court on-site, there’s plenty to enjoy year-round, but winter here is all about peace, privacy, and cosy countryside vibes. One of Marlborough’s must-do activities is a self-guided biking tour, with tracks that weave through remarkable landscapes and between world-class cellar doors. Make the most of St Leonards Vineyard Cottages winter specials to enjoy a free full-day self-guided biking wine tour with Explore Marlborough! Check out Explore Marlborough for the perfect winter wine hoping experience by bike.
2. Avon Valley Lodge
Avon Valley Lodge sits proudly in the Marlborough hill country, offering a blend of raw natural beauty and refined comfort, in a quintessentially kiwi way. Relax in rustic luxury as you take in the sweeping views of mountain ranges, native bush, and Manuka valleys. The Teme River runs alongside the lodge, and the tranquil setting is best enjoyed from the private deck.
Driving up to the lodge is an experience in itself – sunlight glints off the peaks, and the quiet hum of birdlife sets the tone for the escape ahead. This is the kind of place where time slows down. Wake to misty winter mornings and snow-capped mountains, wrap your hands around a warm coffee, and soak in the quiet calm of the valley from the comfort of a cosy fireside spot.
Five-star cuisine rounds out the experience, with meals crafted to reflect the flavours of the region. Avon Valley Lodge delivers a memorable stay in one of Marlborough’s most picturesque corners.
3. The Marlborough Boutique Hotel & Vineyard
Tucked among the vines on a stunning 16-acre estate, The Marlborough offers an effortlessly elegant retreat in the heart of wine country. With a blend of modern luxury and contemporary charm, this intimate hotel is full of heritage charm and delivers a refined escape whether you’re after a romantic weekend or a peaceful group getaway.
Surrounded by working vineyards and manicured gardens, the hotel features spacious, beautifully styled suites designed for total comfort and relaxation. Soak in the peaceful atmosphere from your suite or take a slow stroll through the gardens. With just a handful of rooms, the experience here is intimate, personal and deeply relaxing. Not only is it the perfect place to be year-round, but it’s especially ideal for the cooler months. Indulge in cocktails and canapes by the spectacular outdoor fireplace or in the Chapel Bar before heading to Harvest Restaurant, where you can soak up the winter sun on their verandah or dine indoors by the fire.
Marlborough, nestled on the top of the South Island, is the middle ground on any New Zealand trip. Time spent here can feel like a welcome escape. Plus, the warmth of the hospitality at The Marlborough makes you feel as though you’re right where you’re meant to be.
4. The Nineteenth Vineyard Accommodation
If you’re after a beautiful space that feels like a home away from home, The Nineteenth Vineyard is the ideal place to stay for your Marlborough getaway. This self-catering accommodation is modern and luxurious, with a seriously impressive view from the large outdoor deck. Two spacious and luxurious bedrooms accommodate couples or a family comfortably, and the massive windows help you soak up your surroundings all day and night.
The Nineteenth is perched on a private vineyard with views out to the vines, farmland and the Marlborough Golf Course. A standout cosy winter retreat, it’s the kind of place where you can truly slow down, enjoy a long morning coffee with views across the vineyard, or watch the mist lift off the hills as the day begins. Just a short drive from Blenheim’s cellar doors, it offers privacy, comfort, and a real sense of connection to the land.
5. Vintners Retreat
When you’re in Marlborough to chase the sun through the winter months, sip on a famous Sauvignon Blanc, and retreat back to your accommodation for the evening for a cosy night in, Vintners Retreat makes it easy. Perfect for groups and families, these self-contained villas offer privacy, comfort and top-notch location. With wineries and cellar doors a mere 10-minute stroll away, you’ll be discovering why Marlborough is the wine capital in no time. Each villa is spacious and well-equipped, ideal for longer stays or evenings spent with a cheeseboard and local wine in hand.
The peaceful garden setting, mountain views, and easy access to both Blenheim and Renwick make it a winning winter base. Whether you’re winding down after a day of tastings or simply enjoying the stillness of a crisp Marlborough evening, Vintners Retreat gives you space to breathe and all the comfort you need.
6. Bay of Many Coves Resort & Spa
Tucked away in a sheltered bay in the heart of Queen Charlotte Sound, Bay of Many Coves Resort & Spa offers an exceptional five-star escape surrounded by pristine native forest and uninterrupted views of the bay. Accessible only by boat or helicopter, the resort promises a true sense of seclusion and luxury in every season. From the moment you arrive, you’re immersed in tranquillity – whether it’s relaxing by the fire with a cocktail, paddling across calm waters in a kayak, or unwinding in the hot tub as the stars appear above the bay. Find a sense of adventure when exploring the Queen Charlotte Track, or indulge in world-class cuisine paired with sunset views at The Foredeck, the on-site fine dining restaurant.
Each suite is beautifully designed to showcase the natural surroundings, with expansive windows and private balconies that invite the outside in. In winter, the Sounds are serene and still, creating the perfect atmosphere to rest, reset, and reconnect. Whether you’re indulging in a spa treatment, sampling two of Marlborough’s regional specialties – fresh seafood and Sauvignon Blanc, or simply enjoying the peace, Bay of Many Coves is a luxury retreat that leaves a lasting impression.
Experience the enticing various moods of the bay in winter whilst staying cosy in a beautifully appointed one or two-bedroom apartment with their ‘Stay 3, Pay 2’ special. Relax, unwind and re-connect with those you love at this incredible resort.
7. 14th Lane Urban Hotel
For those who love style and substance, 14th Lane Urban Hotel in Blenheim delivers boutique luxury with a modern twist. This architecturally designed hotel is all about thoughtful details; plush beds, beautifully tiled bathrooms, and sleek interiors that blend comfort with urban sophistication. It’s a perfect base for exploring the region, just a short stroll to Blenheim’s cafes, restaurants, and galleries. After a day out tasting wine or walking through local reserves, return to your room for a peaceful night in, surrounded by clean lines, calming tones, and curated design.
The hotel’s welcoming feel and quiet elegance make it ideal for a restful winter retreat. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or for business, 14th Lane offers a polished yet cosy experience in the heart of Marlborough.
Make the most of winter deals in Marlborough at 14th Lane. Escape the ordinary and treat yourself to a little luxury.
8. French Fields
Tucked away among lavender fields and vines, French Fields feels like stepping into the French countryside, right in the heart of Marlborough. This romantic boutique accommodation blends rustic charm with luxury, offering thoughtfully designed suites filled with elegant touches like clawfoot baths, French antiques, and cosy fireplaces. Located just a short drive from central Blenheim, it feels wonderfully secluded while still being close to Marlborough’s famed cellar doors and scenic trails.
Wake up to birdsong, enjoy a homemade breakfast in the sunroom, or curl up with a book by the fire as the winter sun streams in. With its peaceful setting, beautifully landscaped gardens, and intimate atmosphere, French Fields is a dreamy escape perfect for couples seeking a slower pace. Whether you’re here to unwind, explore the wine region, or simply soak up the serenity, this is one stay that lingers long after you’ve left.
9. Carnmore Chateau Marlborough
If you’re after all the creature comforts wrapped in a touch of elegance, Carnmore Chateau Marlborough delivers. Located right in the heart of Blenheim, this stay offers well-appointed studios and suites that are spacious, stylish, and perfect for a cosy winter escape. With plush bedding, spa baths, and a heated outdoor pool, it’s the kind of place you’ll happily retreat to after a day of wine tasting or exploring nearby trails. The hotel’s central location means you’re just steps from local restaurants, cafes, and boutique shopping, while still being within easy reach of cellar doors and scenic drives. Some suites feature kitchenettes, making it a convenient home base for longer stays. Whether you’re travelling as a couple or bringing the whole crew, Chateau Marlborough strikes that sweet spot between indulgent and inviting; ideal for soaking up Marlborough’s relaxed winter vibes in comfort and style.
10. Marlborough Wine Barrel Cabin
For something a little different (and seriously memorable), spend a night in the Marlborough Wine Barrel Cabin. This one-of-a-kind stay is set inside a giant converted wine barrel nestled amongst the vines, offering a unique and utterly charming retreat. Small but thoughtfully designed, the cabin is perfect for couples chasing a cosy and romantic winter escape. Wake up to vineyard views, enjoy a glass of local wine on the deck, and soak in the peaceful surroundings that make Marlborough so special. Located just outside of Blenheim, it’s close enough to explore the region’s wineries, cycle trails, and eateries, yet far enough away to feel like your own private slice of wine country. If you’re after a stay that’s snug, sweet and packed with character, this barrel ticks all the boxes.
11. Scenic Hotel Marlborough
Scenic Hotel Marlborough is a comfy and stylish stay in the heart of Blenheim. With a central location just a short stroll from town, it’s perfect for exploring local shops, eateries, and cellar doors on foot. This hotel combines convenience and comfort, making it a go-to choice for travellers who want reliable accommodation with everything they need on hand. Whether it’s your first visit to Marlborough or one of many, Scenic Hotel ticks all the boxes for a relaxed, well-located stay you’ll want to return to.
Things to Do in Marlborough in Winter
A place known for its sunshine means hiking, cycling, boating and more is on the cards all year round in Marlborough. Stretch your legs or work up a sweat before indulging in some of the finest wine, seafood and more. Getting here is easy. Fly in from Wellington in just 20 minutes and enjoy breathtaking views of the waterways of the Sounds on your way in – what a way to kick-start your trip. Travel by car on a 4.5-hour road trip up the coast from Christchurch or sail on a 3-hour ferry from the North Island through the Cook Strait and the beautiful Marlborough Sounds.
Follow the fireplaces when touring the Marlborough wineries during your stay. Some of the must-visit cellar doors with fireplaces include Forrest Wines, Wither Hills Cellar Door & Restuarant and Hunter’s Wines. Sit by the crackling fire with a vino or mulled wine for the ultimate Marlborough winter experience.
A must-try is The Wine Shed in Blenheim, a one-stop shop. The team at The Wine Shed have handpicked 15 boutique wineries to showcase and pour, all hidden gems that produce outstanding wines . Sample a diverse range of flavours that show off the regions world-class quality, from Sauvignon Blancs to Pinot Noirs.
Don’t miss the exhibitions at Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, a short drive down the road from some of these top places to stay like French Fields. This museum of appreciation for historic aircrafts is located on the Omaka Aerodrome and hosts an incredible collection of WW1 and WW2 aircrafts and stories of the men and women behind the machines. It’s an experience that is historically significant and captures your imagination. To sweeten up your family winter getaway, kids go free to the museum during the June/July school holidays.
For an iconic Marlborough experience, check out the Mail Boat Cruise to get you out on the Queen Charlotte Sound in winter. It’s the perfect way to explore some bays, spot wildlife and learn from local, experienced guides.
Venture to the Pelorus Sound/Te Hoiere in the Marlborough Sounds as a sea postie for the day. Cruise through the most remote part of the Marlborough Sounds with the Pelorus Mail Boat and learn about local history, the mussel industry and stories of the people who and work in this fantastic area. The Pelourus Mail Boat runs on Monday’s and Friday’s during winter.
For a truly special getaway, embark on a heli-fishing experience off D’Urville Island. This is a tour that combines fishing, flight, food and wine in an all-encompassing adventure. The pristine sheltered bay and native bush on D’Urville Island is a wonder to behold. Depart from Blenheim on a tour that’s one of New Zealand’s best kept secrets.
This article was created in paid partnership with Marlborough NZ.
