The air outside is crisp, cold and dry, the mountains blanketed in snow. Inside the fire is crackling, inviting aromas of hearty, delicious dishes are emanating from the kitchen and comforting luxury awaits.
This was the case approximately two hours after arriving at the magnificent Owner’s Cottage at Matakauri Lodge, seven minutes from the centre of Queenstown. Food Editor Claire Aldous and I arrived, laden with ingredients and camera gear, a little weary after the whole Uber/flight/car hire/supermarket supplies shopping shenanigans that preceded our arrival. So it was a joy to be welcomed by Matakauri Lodge manager Fiona Winger and led up a small, winding path, past many inviting accommodation options, to our beautiful villa overlooking Lake Wakatipu, The Remarkables, Cecil and Walter Peaks. With four luxuriously appointed suites, we explored the villa like children at Christmas, exclaiming over the delights at every turn. We each chose one of the large, private bedroom suites. All four have walk-in wardrobes, fireplaces, balconies and serene bathrooms with deep inviting baths, situated so that the bather can immerse themselves in deep bubbly bliss while simultaneously looking out over the incredible view.
But for me, that treat was to wait until later. While Claire started prepping in the well-appointed kitchen, I wandered, camera in hand, down to the lakefront jetty – stopping every metre or so to take yet another photo of the breathtaking vista. Red-cheeked and chilly, I returned to the Owner’s Cottage, where pots were already bubbling on the stove. I was able to explore the huge main living area, with a large fireplace, cosy couches and plush throws providing temptation from the main job of setting up to shoot our sensational après-ski menu. And while it is indeed perfect fare for pleasantly tired skiers or snowboarders after a day on the slopes, it is, of course, equally suitable for busy friends or family, gathered for a mid-winter bite after a cold day
