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Description:
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In the heart
of Marlborough's wine growing area lies
Old Saint Mary's Convent -- a haven for
the discerning traveler, where luxury
accommodation and an intimate retreat
may be found. Old Saint Mary's Convent
is situated on an estate of 20 acres and
surrounded on all sides by the vineyards
and olive groves Marlborough is famous
for. Spring Creek, with its abundant
bird life and trout, meanders lazily
through the property. It is here,
beneath Marlborough's azure sky, that
one may spend a pleasant afternoon
sipping local vintages and sampling the
provincial gourmet fare.
A Proud History
Designed by Thomas Turnbull and built in
1901 for the Sisters of Mercy, the
Convent was originally located next to
Saint Mary's Church in Blenheim. It
provided nineteen bedrooms for the nuns,
a library, music room, sewing room,
office and a beautiful chapel upstairs
on the first floor
Native timbers were extensively used
in the construction including Matai,
Rimu and Kauri. One of the many splendid
examples of Victorian craftsmanship is
the substantial carved staircase,
constructed entirely from Kauri. In
1994, the Convent was moved in five
pieces to its present location in
Rapaura. The task of restoration then
began under the guidance of architect
Sir Michael Fowler. The interior layout
downstairs has remained exactly as it
was nearly 100 years ago, retaining its
original charm and character. |
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The
Honeymoon Suite, with its antique
stained glass windows, is the size of
a small apartment and has its own
private balcony. It epitomizes luxury
with casual elegance. The large
ensuite bathroom features a two-person
claw bath, walk-in shower, double
basins and superior toiletries |
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Each of the
five rooms has spectacular views of the
surrounding hills, vineyards and/or
gardens. All have their own ensuite with
bath and separate shower. The rooms are
very spacious and airy with easy access
to the balcony.
Essential modern conveniences, like fire
protection sprinklers and a
sophisticated heating and air
conditioning system, are cleverly hidden
behind the old ceilings, Rimu panelling
and timbered floors.
Continental or cooked breakfast is
served in the large formal dining room.
The library, with its ornate Kauri
fireplace and separate guest lounge, is
for the exclusive use of guests.
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Please
click on the buttons at the bottom of this page
for additional information and to contact us or
make a booking.
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Rooms
& Facilities:
Chapel
Honeymoon Suite
Executive suite, the size of a small
apartment, situated in the old Chapel with
antique beautifully crafted old stained glass
windows and its own private balcony. Super-king
sleigh bed, ensuite bathroom with luxurious two
person bath and separate shower. Writing desk
with Internet connection, TV and stereo.
Mini-bar with complimentary bottle of Cloudy Bay
Pelorus sparkling wine.
Mother
Superior's Room
Spacious room with access to balcony.
Queen-size antique bed and large ensuite
bathroom with luxurious two-person bath and
walk-in shower. Comfortable sitting area and
beautiful views of the garden and Richmond
Ranges
Novice Room
Extra large room with wonderful views over
vineyards. Queen-size sleigh bed and comfortable
sitting area. Ensuite bathroom with claw bath
and walk-in shower.
Grace Room
Large room with Queen-size French antique
bed and comfortable sitting area. Ensuite
bathroom with claw bath and walk-in shower.
Views of the garden
Sister
Ancilla - Twin Room
Sunny spacious room with
Super-king/twin-size bed. Large ensuite bathroom
with old-fashioned bath and separate shower.
Morning sun wakes you up to beautiful views of
the gardens and Richmond Ranges
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The room charge is for two
persons' occupancy and includes breakfast,
bottomless coffee and tea, also Marlborough wines
and canapes for pre-dinner drinks.
All rooms
except have SKY cable television.
Our guests have the exclusive use of our
library and guest lounge. Complimentary bicycles
are available for your vineyard tour.
Guest dining available by prior request.
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Nearest
Town/Location:
Blenheim
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