Martinborough Country Escape
Summer Issue: October 2009
We left Auckland around midday and by five that afternoon we were perching on bar stools in Martinborough's busy Settlers Bar at Peppers Hotel, sipping cider.
Being just over one hour's drive from Wellington, east over the Rimutaka ranges, the town, not surprisingly, is a popular weekend escape for those from the capital.
With vineyards galore, people flock to drink up what the Wairarapa region has to offer.
I find there's also plenty to do if you're angling for a more sober time.
Patuna Farm Adventures
At Patuna Farm Adventures, where we're going horse trekking, guide Emma tells us she usually tours alongside the rocky river, or to the top of the ridges surrounding the farm. Being an outstandingly clear day, and to get the horses fit for the busy summer season, she decides we'll tackle the mountain. While my horse breaks into a sweat, I take in the story book farmland dotted with lambs, and rugged ranges in the distance.
The next day back at the hotel we sit like cats in the morning sun and have a coffee in the beautifully renovated courtyard. Built in 1882, the 16-room hotel has had a stunning makeover fairly recently. The whole town looks pretty spruced up, too.
For a weekend away treat, I get an hour-long full body massage at Brackenridge Country Retreat & Spa, just a short drive out of the town centre.
I'm feeling suitably pampered that evening so to carry on the indulgence, we have a delicious three course dinner in the hotel's more formal and intimate dining room.
I definitely think it's about time I try some of this famous Martinborough wine.
www.peppers.co.nz
www.patunafarm.co.nz
www.brackenridge.co.nz
Jetstar flies from Auckland to Wellington three times daily and from Christchurch to Wellington daily.