Opening its doors to guests this November, Cabot Lodge provides a chance to understand the complexities of New Zealand sheep farming within the comfort of a secluded luxury lodge. Set in a stunning landscape, this destination is unique in that it exudes a luxury feel whilst delivering an authentic experience of a working farm.
Bordering the Fiordland National Park, Cabot Lodge will accommodate up to 10 guests across its four suites. New Zealand travel expert, and founder of New Zealand In Depth, Paul Carberry, said: “Cabot Lodge will bring something new and exciting for guests travelling to New Zealand. It has perfectly combined authentic New Zealand with true luxury. Everything has been thought of from the views and activities on offer, through to the delicious farm-style breakfast.”
Cathedral Peaks Station on which Cabot Lodge has been built is owned by the McDonald family, who are now into their fifth generation of sheep farmers. The sheep station was founded by Cam and Wendy McDonald who met while Cam was travelling the length of the country on horseback. It was during this epic journey that they fell in love with the Fiordland area and it was here they managed to find the perfect plot of land to fulfil their dream of owning a sheep farm.
Having raised their three children on the farm, youngest daughter Breidi and her husband Brad, returned home in 2018 to continue the family farming legacy and open Cabot Lodge. Both Breidi and Brad are passionate about farming and in addition to running Cabot Lodge, they have introduced beehives and are experimenting with berry cultivars to expand the farms produce.
Guests of the Lodge can enjoy the fruits of the family’s labour, with fresh honey, berries, meats, as well as the fresh eggs from the resident chickens. Full farm-style breakfasts are on the menu every morning, with pre-dinner drinks and canapes offered daily. Guests are also able to request lunch hampers, designed to be enjoyed while exploring Fiordland.
The lodge has numerous room options, ranging from Premier to Two Bedroom. The Premier Suite has breath-taking views over Lake Manapouri with an open-plan that includes a spacious living area and office space, beautifully-designed kitchen and a dining area overlooking the Lodge’s rose garden. The en-suite comes with panoramic views over the farm and includes a traditional clawfoot bath and spacious shower.
The two bedroom suite offers two generously-sized adjoining rooms overlooking the farm and Takatimu mountain range, with a shared bathroom. Each bedroom offers a Super King bed, beautiful timber writing table, and generous wardrobe. An elevated sitting area has views of the courtyard and overlooks Lake Manapouri and the surrounding mountains.
“The lodge is in such a spectacular spot with the option to arrive by helicopter, light aircraft, or a spectacular drive up to the lodge,” adds Paul. “It’s also the seclusion that appeals for this luxury property allowing guest to experience authentic New Zealand in the privacy of the lodge that looks out to picture perfect farmland, fiords and mountains beyond.”
With Cabot Lodge opening in November and available year-round, a 5-night 6-day trip with New Zealand In Depth costs from £1800 per person including two nights at Cabot Lodge, 3 nights at Azur Lodge in Queenstown on a B&B basis and car hire, excluding flights. For more information and expert advice on travel to New Zealand, visit In Depth.
