Closeburn浪漫飯店

This review was a long time coming! I had the privilege to spend four nights at the Matakauri Lodge in May. Upon arrival, I was upgraded to a ginormous suite facing Lake Watatipu. Overall, I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect stay. The room was beyond comfortable. It was so relaxing that I easily would’ve been content hanging out by the window or on the patio all day. Being about 10 minutes outside of town, I liked that the property was full board and included mini bar items. I wish all properties would just tack on a fee and include items to the room rate. Food in the dining room was excellent. You could order ala carte or opt for the tasting menu, which allows you to sample a little bit of most of the menu. I definitely have to praise the F&B team in taking the care to ensure my items were gluten free. The only thing that can be improved is their god-awful coffee, which tasted like jet fuel. Davide, the GM, discussed this. Among all my stays at various properties around the world, very few know how to really do coffee, which is too bad since som much effort is put into wine and alcohol programs. Before you arrive, be sure to contact the concierge and they can arrange all sorts of excursions and transfers for you. There are hiking trails right outside the door of the property, so the active visitor will always have plenty to do. Thank you, Davide and team, for making my stay at the Matakauri Lodge a memorable one.