Pen-y-bryn, Oamaru

Location

First built as a private residence in 1889 by the famed architectural firm Forrester & Lemon, this is old world elegance in the historic coastal town of Oamaru. Sitting on well-heeled South Hill, it won’t surprise that Pen-y-bryn was named for the Welsh for ‘top of the hill’, enjoying a delightfully green setting. Heading out, the lodge runs excursions to visit the little blue penguins returning to their nests while the boutique shops and cafés of the Harbour-Tyne historical precinct are equally delightful. It’s all just an hour and a half’s drive up the coast from Dunedin.

Accommodation

Each of the five guest rooms at Pen-y-bryn has been appointed to the highest standard. The bed linen is 100% cotton, the pillows are made from feather and down and each bed features a pure wool underlay. There are antiques throughout the property; even the tea and coffee is served in fine bone china and accompanied by home-baked biscuits, fresh fruit and New Zealand chocolate. Monogrammed bathrobes and hand-embroidered face cloths add further personal touches while complimentary high speed WiFi, oversized baths and super king beds round off the rooms.

Dining

Your hosts ‘the Jameses’ – James Glucksman and James Boussy – are renowned for their dinner parties. You’ll dine in the luxurious style of a bygone age with candlelit tables adorned with fresh flowers, sparkling crystal and polished silver. Having lived all over the world, you’ll be treated to everything from authentic Chinese spice to classic French delicacies all realised using only the freshest of New Zealand ingredients. Breakfasts are similarly worldly, with Pen-y-bryn a proud member of the international Slow Food Movement.

Facilities

Offering lodge-style amenities, you’ll take your canapés and evening drinks with views of the Pacific Ocean in the Drawing Room, relax in the guest library or make use of the competition-sized billiard table and baby grand piano. Pen-y-bryn’s expansive verandahs and outdoor terraces are also ideal for taking some deserved time out. There’s also a complement of activities available to help you explore the region with canoe trips, bicycle rides and walking tours all on offer.