The best of winter

There’s something magical about the South Island in winter and the Kinross Cottages of Central Otago offer a unique holiday experience.

P“Kinross is close to Queenstown but feels a world away, offering solace."

icture this: you’ve just spent an adrenaline-filled day skiing the slopes of a stunning South Island mountain, and now you're back at your luxury cottage accommodation, curled up beside a roaring fire, glass of wine in hand. Your window offers undisturbed views of snow-capped hills and vineyards, and you're reminded of the views you thought only existed on picture postcards. Before you nestle into your soft, warm bed for the night you indulge in one last little luxury – a delightful hot tub soak.

Thanks to the modern, rustic and charming Kinross Cottages in the Gibbston wine region of Central Otago, your winter wonderland daydream can easily come true. Whether it’s a family skiing holiday you use as an excuse for visiting, a romantic mini-break, or a girls’ or boys’ weekend away to taste the local wines or craft beers, at Kinross there is something for everyone.

Kinross managers Adam and Lizzie share a passion for delectable cuisine, travel and adventure, and with a background in Europe’s superyacht industry, this makes them experienced and thoughtful hosts.

Besides having a general store and wine tasting rooms at the working vineyard, the Kinross offering has expanded to also include pilates and open-air art classes on site.

If it’s a bike ride you fancy, you can rent a bicycle and take the Gibbston Wine Loop cycle trail which is surrounded by the dramatic Pisa ranges.

Kinross is situated just a short drive from Queenstown's town centre, making it a great spot to stay to be close enough to the action of a main centre, but still feel a world away from it when you need some solace. And if you’re visiting Kinross with kids they too will enjoy exploring the ruins of the 160-year-old original cottage, and may even catch a glimpse of Kinross’ resident Pekin ducks.

They’ll also enjoy the locally famous gluten-free pizzas and brownies available at the tasting room, with everything made from scratch – from the pizza bases to tomato sauce; even the salmon is smoked onsite.

So how about turning your imagination into reality – get packing to experience a holiday you’ll want to return for each and every year.