Queenstown Hotels|Closeburn, New Zealand

Rosewood Matakauri

Name: Rosewood Matakauri
Telephone: 64-3-441-1008

An alpine lake escape

VERIFIED LUXURY

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If you’re looking for a New Zealand getaway grounded in nature, Rosewood Matakauri is the bold, beautiful property that should be rooted near the top of your list. Originally opened in 2009 by philanthropists, now under the ownership of Rosewood Hotel Group, Matakauri is indeed more opulent, more indulgent and even more worthy of a detour.

Resting on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by majestic alpine landscapes and snow-capped peaks, Rosewood Matakuari is the pinnacle of escapism in the region. Adventure seekers have a wealth of activities to choose from, no matter what the calendar reads — heli-skiing during the winter and whitewater rafting in the summer.

However, wellness enthusiasts have everything at their doorstep, including a tranquil heated pool, plunge dips and outdoor cedarwood saunas. Just 10 minutes from Queenstown on the lower South Island of New Zealand, these experiences and a spectrum of others await the eager traveler who ventures to this alpine lake escape.

Our Inspector's Highlights

Surrounded by three of Queenstown’s biggest peaks (The Remarkables, Cecil Peak and Walter Peak), skiers have pristine slopes to tackle in the winter and hikers will have a host of choices in the warmer months. Rosewood Matakauri’s expert team will curate bespoke adventures for all guests, whether it be on skis, a snowboard or trail boots.
The lone onsite restaurant more than delivers. Akaroa salmon and tender high-country lamb are must-orders when partaking in a meal at The Dining Room, a space where clean, local flavors are always on the menu. During the warmer months, enjoy alfresco dining with panoramic lake views.
The Queenstown hotel has an impressive wine cellar, with many of the country’s best labels filling the shelves. Discover how this relatively untouched region makes some of the Southern Hemisphere’s best pinot noirs with the Rosewood Matakauri concierge team leading you through the most worthy cellar doors. Still, no one would question you if made the most of your location and ventured out to nearby Gibbston Valley for a day of sampling, either.
Posh in-suite amenities include oversized bathtubs, balconies, heated floors, plush bedding and a curated and complimentary drinks and snacks menu. Specific units like the Grand Lake View suites have mezzanine bedrooms with panoramic vistas while villas have full kitchens and Jacuzzis.
The most indulgent and palatial accommodation is the Matakauri Four-Bedroom Villa. Great for multi-generational travelers, the 4,359-square-foot lodge has a spacious living room, dining area, a sheltered courtyard and priceless art (including Picasso ceramics).

Things to Know

Though Rosewood Matakauri proudly helps guests find tranquility in nature, the property assists those who seek it creatively as well. For those with an affinity for the arts, a regular artist-in-residence program allows guests to collaborate with visionaries for further inspiration and renewal.
While all suites and villas are elegantly furnished, the public areas are noteworthy lounging spots as well. A staircase off the main reception foyer leads up to the library, complete with a fireplace, cozy seating and a dining and games table. A statement coffee table was made from reclaimed timber that washed up on New Zealand’s shores after the 2004 tsunami in Thailand.
Watching the night sky from the privacy of your own villa is one of the most rewarding memories here. Guided by a local astrophysicist, immerse yourself in the Night Sky Experience and discover the wonders of the hemisphere’s pristine celestial tapestry with state-of-the-art telescopes, night binoculars and more.

Amenities