Annandale

A refuge on the Pacific

Annandale is probably one of the most isolated addresses in the world. Set on the shores of Pigeon Bay, in the east of New Zealand's South Island, this former farm spans 1,600 hectares of countryside while offering a retreat facing the Pacific Ocean. Guests will feel right at home, whilst savouring the delights of the end of the earth in a breathtaking natural setting. Annandale consists of four exceptional villas: the 1880s five-bedroom Homestead, which has been carefully restored; Scrubby Bay, with its four bedrooms facing the bay; Seascape, a modern and romantic haven designed for couples; and Shepherd's Cottage, with its undeniable historic charm. An apartment, The Stables, built above Annandale's former stables, completes the property's charming accommodation offering. In the kitchen, fresh, local produce is the hotel's hallmark, with a selection of food from the property's vegetable garden and tasty dishes that can be delivered directly to your villa. Whether you are coming with family, friends or as a couple, you will be captivated by the sea views, the green hills where sheep graze freely, and the rocky mountains. While some of the villas feature a private swimming pool, it is away from prying eyes that you can enjoy 10km of unspoilt coastline, bordered by the sparkling waters of the Pacific. Switch off everything and get ready for an authentically «kiwi» experience, where only birdsong is likely to disturb your peace and quiet. The gem is not just on the inside: Annandale also stands out for its unrivalled range of outdoor activities, from kayaking excursions, hiking and cycling to massages in the privacy of your villa.

STYLE

An old farmhouse sitting on 1,600 ha of nature and facing the waters of the Pacific, with a contemporary design and cosy interiors

SITUATION

In the shelter of Pigeon Bay, on the Banks Peninsula, on the east coast of the South Island, a 1-hour-15-minute drive from Christchurch

CAPACITY

4 villas & 1 loft totalling 13 bedrooms

HIGHLIGHTS

Incredibly charming cottages, farm-to-table food and activities close to nature

THE EXPERIENCES

  • Massages in the privacy of your villa
  • Cookery class with the Chef
  • Kayaking excursions in Pigeon Bay
  • Visit of the surrounding farms on foot or by 4X4
  • Hiking and mountain bike rides, fishing with an expert
  • Tour of the French town of Akaroa and boat or kayak cruise to see seals, sea lions and dolphins
  • Guided tour of the city of Christchurch
  • Private canvas painting lesson with a local artist

THE EXTRAORDINARY

There are many ways to discover the region, the best one surely being to have a local guide accompany you! Take to the skies in a helicopter with a New Zealand pilot and admire the beauty of the landscapes from above: superb coasts, cliffs, countryside and verdant hills will unfold before your eyes… Or let a local fisherman take you out on a boat to discover the wealth of the Banks Peninsula's rivers.

ETHICS

Annandale invites its guests to discover rural New Zealand, off the beaten tourist track, in an authentic and unspoilt setting. The farm has been around since the 1840s and to this day 1,600 hectares of pastureland are dedicated to sheep and cattle farming. Annandale champions sustainable farming practices and works with quality produce which travellers can enjoy, following the «farm-to-table» concept.