Day 1: Arrive in Blenheim & Wine Tasting Intro
Where to Go & What to Do:
- Arrive at Blenheim Airport (BHE) or take the ferry to Picton and drive 30 minutes to Blenheim.
- Stroll through Blenheim town center, visit boutique shops and the local market (if arriving on a Saturday).
- Start your wine journey with an introduction to Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc at a top winery.
- Visit Allan Scott Wines, one of Marlborough’s most iconic family-run vineyards.
- Enjoy a winery lunch with vineyard views.
- Take a relaxing evening walk at Pollard Park & Gardens.
Tour Operators & Activity Providers:
- Sounds Connection (Wine Tours) – www.soundsconnection.co.nz
- Explore Marlborough Wine Tours – www.exploremarlborough.co.nz
Where to Eat:
- Allan Scott Bistro – Delicious seasonal dishes paired with estate wines.
- Blenheim’s Scotch Wine Bar – A cozy spot with a great selection of local wines.
Where to Stay:
- Chateau Marlborough – A luxury boutique hotel in Blenheim.
- The Marlborough Lodge – A premium vineyard retreat with stunning views.
Day 2: The Classic Marlborough Wine Trail
Where to Go & What to Do:
- Start your day with Cloudy Bay Vineyards, one of the most famous wineries in Marlborough.
- Take a guided vineyard tour, learning about the winemaking process from grape to glass.
- Visit Saint Clair Family Estate, renowned for its award-winning Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.
- Enjoy a long lunch at Wither Hills Winery, a top spot for food and wine pairing.
- Stop at Hans Herzog Estate, a boutique vineyard known for its organic and biodynamic wines.
- In the evening, unwind with craft beer tasting at Moa Brewery, a refreshing break from wine.
Tour Operators & Activity Providers:
- Bubbly Grape Wine Tours – www.bubblygrape.co.nz
- Marlborough Wine Tours – www.marlboroughwinetours.co.nz
Where to Eat:
- Wither Hills Winery Restaurant – A fine-dining vineyard experience.
- Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen – A beautiful lunch spot with garden seating.
Where to Stay:
- Vintners Retreat – Luxurious vineyard accommodation.
- St Leonards Vineyard Cottages – Cozy and charming boutique stays.
Day 3: Wine & Adventure in Marlborough
Where to Go & What to Do:
- Start with a morning cycle tour, biking between vineyards on the Golden Mile Wine Trail.
- Stop at Forrest Wines, a laid-back, family-run winery.
- Visit Framingham Wines, known for their outstanding Rieslings.
- Head to The Wine Station, a tasting hub where you can sample over 80 local wines.
- In the afternoon, take a Marlborough Sounds Cruise, pairing scenic views with seafood and wine.
- Enjoy a sunset seafood dinner in Picton.
Tour Operators & Activity Providers:
- Bike 2 Wine Tours – www.bike2wine.co.nz
- Marlborough Tour Company (Seafood & Wine Cruise) – www.marlboroughtourcompany.co.nz
Where to Eat:
- The Wine Station (Blenheim) – Perfect for trying multiple wines.
- The Mussel Pot (Havelock) – Specializing in Marlborough green-lipped mussels.
Where to Stay:
- Bay of Many Coves (Marlborough Sounds) – A luxury eco-lodge accessible by boat.
- Escape to Picton – A boutique waterfront hotel.
Day 4: Gourmet Food & Unique Experiences
Where to Go & What to Do:
- Visit Makana Confections to watch chocolate being made and enjoy free tastings.
- Join a culinary experience at Arbour, a renowned farm-to-table restaurant.
- Take a private wine blending session, creating your own wine blend to take home.
- Enjoy a leisurely vineyard picnic at Hunter’s Wines.
- Optional: Explore Rarangi Beach, a hidden gem for stunning coastal views.
Tour Operators & Activity Providers:
- Arbour (Food & Wine Pairing Experience) – www.arbour.co.nz
- Makana Confections (Chocolate Factory) – www.makana.co.nz
Where to Eat:
- Arbour (Blenheim) – A must-visit for foodies.
- Wairau River Winery Restaurant – Vineyard dining with fresh, local produce.
Where to Stay:
- Hillsfield House – A boutique bed & breakfast in the countryside.
- The Peppertree – A charming historic homestead.
Day 5: Wine & Relaxation Before Departure
Where to Go & What to Do:
- Enjoy a morning vineyard walk, breathing in the fresh Marlborough air.
- Take a behind-the-scenes winery tour at Yealands Estate, known for sustainability.
- If time allows, explore Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, home to WWI and WWII aircraft collections.
- Stop at Dodson Street Beer Garden, a great place for a final meal before departure.
- Depart from Blenheim Airport or take the ferry back to Wellington.
Tour Operators & Activity Providers:
- Yealands Estate Winery Tour – www.yealands.co.nz
- Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre – www.omaka.org.nz
Where to Eat:
- Dodson Street Beer Garden – A great final stop with craft beer & hearty meals.
- Brancott Estate Cellar Door – A vineyard café with excellent platters.
Where to Stay (If Extending Your Trip):
- The Marlborough Vintners Hotel – A boutique wine country retreat.
- Tanglewood Retreat – A nature lodge perfect for unwinding.