Exclusive Escape: Bay of Many Coves - Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand
Located at the Northern tip of the South Island, the Marlborough Sounds offers pristine waterways, memorable nature encounters, and unbelievably fresh food and wine. This region is still largely undeveloped, so it’s easy to find a tranquil and uncrowded bay to explore.
Accommodation options are limited, but there’s a hideaway tucked into a secluded cove in the Queen Charlotte Sound that I absolutely love - Bay of Many Coves Resort. It is perfect for those seeking a mix of luxury, adventure, and relaxation. The native fauna and flora thrive in this environment, so you get an authentic taste of what New Zealand looked and sounded like before modern settlers.
Location // How to Get There
Hop on a 30 minute scenic boat ride or a 15 minute helicopter transfer from Picton to reach this exclusive escape. If you are coming from Auckland, fly into Blenheim and drive 30 minutes to Picton, the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds.
Lodge Details // Room Tour
One, two, and three bedroom contemporary apartments are thoughtfully built within the native bush. They blend in effortlessly and the warm wood interiors complement the surrounding environment. Floral arrangements, homemade cookies, and cozy blankets make you feel at home. Along with these little details, there are practical ones too, like reusable water bottles, binoculars, and flashlights.
Open the screen-less sliding windows to let the fresh air flow into your room or step outside onto your private balcony to really take it all in. Here you are truly one with nature - there’s no need to set an alarm as the chorus of endemic birds will wake you as the sun is rising.
Lodge Activities
This luxury lodge is fantastic for the active traveler as there are a multitude of adventures at your doorstep. Explore the deep teal waterways via kayak or SUP. Hike miles of private trails and don’t be surprised if Steve, the curious lodge cat, joins you. He is iconic and even has is own Instagram. The regenerating bush is packed with beautiful birds which adds a magical touch to the adventure. During my hike, a cheeky fantail few right next to me, at eye level, for a solid 20 minutes. The Queen Charlotte Track is also directly accessible for further hiking or cycling.
Cruise around with local Chef and Skipper, Grant Orchard, who built his boat Katabatic by hand in pursuit of his late father's dream. Sea-birds like albatross are plentiful in the sounds, as well as sea-life like dolphins, seals, fish, and crustaceans. Grant is a fishing pro who can hook a fish within minutes and shortly after he’ll cook it up for lunch. Along with the just-caught fish, enjoy greenshell mussels the size of your hand, and freshly baked focaccia with bruschetta. He can even find pāua (abalone) right from the marine-rich waters if that’s your thing!
At night, hit the trails right outside of the main lodge to search for little blue penguins and hundreds of glow worms. Finish the day with a soak in the cedar hot tub under the starry Southern sky with a Sauvignon Blanc in hand.
