The Lindis

Far from competing with the dramatic, craggy mountains which surround it, instead one of New Zealand’s most exclusive luxury adventure retreats goes for smooth sweeping lines, walls of glass and almost every inch clad in birch wood.

Inside, you will spend much of your time also in awe at the level of design, abstract angles and attention to detail that has been paid to it all. This is an architectural gem of a hotel, though one which is actually entirely dedicated to what lies beyond it.

The purpose of The Lindis is to provide one of the ultimate New Zealand adventure experiences while having that infinitely comfortable space-age building to come back to each day. So while there is no pool, spa, gym or other notable onsite facilities as such, this is all entirely intentional, aimed at ensuring that daytimes are spent enjoying the best of Ahuriri Valley and surrounding North Otago, while evenings roll into a heart-warming soiree of fine dining cuisine, paired wine, a chat or read by the fire and cognac at the lounge bar.

The unique Black Diamond dining experience, named after the adventurous skiing term that indicates a challenge and rewards, offers uninterrupted views, gourmet food and excellent service. Located deep in the Ahuriri Valley, take a scenic horse-back ride to the diamond, and savour delightful flavours of a chef-prepared three-course lunch. Start the meal off with some Louis Roederer Collection Champagne on the patio area with views of the snow-clad mountains rolling across the landscape.

When it comes to those outdoor activities then, little compares to a gentle walk through this blissfully remote wilderness, though fun-filled off-road buggy tours are also a great way to discover otherwise inaccessible viewpoints – even the most earnest of walkers would struggle with these hills! You can go horse riding, take out a mountain bike, see it all from above in a glider or keep feet firmly on the ground with a spot of fishing in the nearby Ahuriri River. After dinner, another highlight of The Lindis is stargazing, thanks to its isolated location and lack of light pollution. Stargazing at The Lindis can be some of the best in New Zealand, which makes to a fitting end to every day spent in this, one of New Zealand’s greatest boutique lodges here in South Island’s wild Ahuriri Valley.