The moment you arrive at Paratiho Farms you know you are at an exceptional and unique lodge. The senses are hit immediately with the stunning lobby full of exquisite and diversified art.  Something really special has been perfected at Paratiho Farms in Nelson. Luxury begins with the name, ‘Paratiho’, the modern Maori word for paradise. Here contemporary art and sculpture feed the imagination, while superb cuisine fulfils your experience – here stunning architectural design perfectly compliments where nature began –stands Paratiho, your very own paradise.

Grounds and Lodge: The Lodge at Paratiho Farms is set on a two thousand acre working property. Take the time to 'walk the farm' at your leisure or if time permits.  The grounds are full of dramatic sculptures, gardens and lakes. A swimming pool beckons on a sunny day.  The rolling green hills covered with sheep are the perfect backdrop to this exquisite property.  Beyond the farm is world renowned trout fishing, three national parks to explore, the galleries of more than 300 full time artists and small and superb wineries.

Accommodations: The six suites are separate from the Lodge to reflect and enhance the flowing landscape that surrounds. From local artists original works - to the divine cookies at your bedside - no detail is too trivial when you decide to stay in luxury at Paratiho Farms. All rooms feature king size and twin beds, separate bedroom, lounge with fireplace, large dressing room, and an incredible bathroom with free standing tub, huge rainforest shower, a featured garden and a private outdoor patio area. These suites are among the most luxurious and well thought out accommodations I have ever experienced. Right down to the huge walk in closet with many accessories you would not expect. Pictures shown below.

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Farm Cottage: There is also a cottage available that is an excellent option for a family or couples traveling together.  The cottage ahs three-bedrooms and three bathrooms with a king bed and two queen beds.  The cottage also offers a full kitchen, laundry, satellite television, BBQ and central heating.  The Farm cottage can accommodate up to six people and is serviced daily.  Meals can be taken at the main lodge for an additional charge.  This is a beautiful "cottage" and decorated to very high standards and offers a very good value. Pictures shown below.

Dining: The cuisine is a combination of the most desirable and freshest local produce, prepared in an internationally recognized manner, completed with a South Pacific flavor. Evening meals are a social occasion often hosted by the lodge owner, Sally Hunt. Private dining is also available. During our stay we ate privately in the Library in front of the fireplace. The first course was a soup that was the most delicious soup I have ever tasted. Each course was more incredible than the last and our meal was an event that we will never forget. Each course was served with a local Nelson wine especially selected to accompany the food being served.

Breakfast was served in the kitchen and made 100% to order. Anything that you desired could be provided. The rich coffee and delicious rolls that were offered the moment you sat down were outstanding.

Other item worth noting include the extensive wine cellar with a floor made from wine corks. They feature the finest wines of the Nelson region. The china and glassware are are also quite exceptional allowing each wonderful course served to be enhanced by the presentation.

Activities:  The grounds are yours to explore, along with swimming, tennis, putting green, petanque, croquet and an excercise facility.  There are also a wide range of activities in this area. If you enjoy one of the fine wines served afine wines served at the Lodge arrange a tour of the local winery.  The Abel Tasman park is very close and special excursions can be arranged for you.  Trout fishing in many rivers is available with guides that can be arranged.
 

Spa: The deluxe treatments soothe and rejuvenate both the body and the mind – from hydrotherapy, body wraps, facials, manicures, massage, reflexology and hairstyling.  Paratiho has the distinction of having the number one spa in a New Zealand Lodge. Their experienced spa technicians are dedicated to pampering you

Paratiho Farms is an expensive property. However after staying here I can only encourage those of you who can afford this experience to put this exquisite lodge on your itinerary. It is truly a once in a lifetime memory.

Website:  http://www.paratiho.co.nz/