5 Nights at The Peppertree – Blenheim

The Peppertree luxury bed and breakfast is located on 10 acres of lush farmland near Blenheim, New Zealand in the heart of the Marlborough wine region and is surrounded by an extensive country garden, a boutique vineyard and olive grove. Built in 1901 from native timbers, it takes its name from the grove of Pepper Trees (Schinus molle) which lines the drive leading to the gracious Edwardian Villa. 

Arrive at The Peppertree in time to relax and meet your hosts Werner & Heidi for a welcome drink of The Peppertree’s Chardonnay, grown in the boutique vineyard just meters from the homestead and made by owner Werner. 

After a mouthwatering breakfast in the elegant Peppertree’s dining room, or on the verandah your guide will pick you up. Together with your travel companions enjoy exploring the lower part of the Awatere Valley. See its transformation from pastoral farming to vineyards and learn about its interesting history.Enjoy morning tea in an idyllic spot where you can soak up the atmosphere of the stunning scenery. Traveling onwards towards Molesworth Station to enjoy a tasty picnic lunch beside the original Molesworth Cottage made of cob. Experience the unique unspoiled vastness of New Zealand's largest cattle station as we travel to Isolated Flat with its vast river valley formed by glaciers millions of years ago and the shear barren mountains ravaged by rabbits long gone. Listen to stories of the past and learn about the history of the area.The return trip down the valley is equally as spectacular and gives you another aspect of the awe inspiring views of this vast valley returning to Blenheim via the original Taylor Pass route. 

Day 3: The Wairau Valley Tour                                                                

Start the day with a drive through the heart of the Marlborough wine region, to an organic vineyard. Amble through the vines to a tasting and winery visit at Seresin. Meander to a private vantage point that has a 360 degree view of the valleys. Take time to view and taste different varieties of grapes (season permitting) at Grove Mill. Travel to Highfield Estate for a wine tasting and simply scrumptious lunch. Afterwards, stroll or drive through the rolling vineyards of Dogpoint Vineyard to gain an understanding of what goes into producing a fine Marlborough wine.This is followed by a wine tasting at Matua. Complete the day with a visit to another winery of your choice.     

Your fourth day at The Peppertree can be as full or as relaxing as you wish - from soaking up the Marlborough sun around the swimming pool, a game of petanque or lawn croquet or make a visit to the “Wine Exhibition Museum”, the famous “Knights of the sky” Museum, one of the world’s largest private collection of WW1 aircraft and artifacts brought to life by the masters of cinematic spectacle or whatever your temptation, a visit to the Makana Boutique Chocolate Factory is an experience not to be missed. Or - enjoy a round of golf at the Marlborough Fairhall Championship Golf Course which is only few mins drive away from The Peppertree. 

After breakfast your guide will collect you at The Peppertree at an arranged time to suit your needs. You head off to a favored river spot for fly fishing. This is where angling skills are taught and tested, so you have the chance of a hook up on your first outing. The main river of Marlborough is the Wairau river which is a braided river system, holding a healthy wild stock of wily brown trout. Feel the thrill as you catch a glimpse of wild brown or rainbow trout shimmering just below the surface almost within touching distance. The other main river and its tributaries to fish is the Pelorus river, in which reside mainly a rainbow trout population with a few brown trout, which is only a 45 minute drive from Blenheim. You will enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch at a scenic spot. You set off for The Peppertree at approximately 5.30pm/6.00pm. 

Day 6                      

After a delicious breakfast it is time to bid farewell and continue on your journey.  

***BLOW BUDGET OPTION***

On your 5th day enjoy a helicopter fishing trip after a mouthwatering breakfast in the elegant dining room. Board your helicopter from The Peppertree grounds and enjoy the stunning view as you are whisked away to a remote location. You head off to world class fishing waters from spring fed streams to wilderness mountain rivers and lakes. The majority of fish in Marl borough’s rivers are brown trout with some salmon and rainbow trout. All fishermen depart with a delectable lunch. Tea or coffee is usually brewed on a campfire beside the stream. No doubt it will be a memorable day for you.