Pen-y-Bryn Lodge

This Victorian mansion at the top of South Hill in Oamaru was built in 1889, and is believed to be the largest single-storey wooden dwelling in Australasia. The current owners bought the lodge in 2010 and have focussed on ensuring the historic homestead continues to be a welcoming and luxurious retreat for visitors to the coastal town.

The lodge and its five individually decorated guest rooms are filled with antiques and furnishings that date right back to the original owners. The story goes that while the house was being built, they spent four years travelling Europe collecting all the fitting and artworks they wanted to feature in their home. That original collection now also includes pieces left to the new owners by the families that owned the house over the years. Some of the rooms offer views out over the stone terrace and gardens or the Pacific Ocean and the Kakanui Ranges.

Dining is a highlight and exquisite meals are created using seasonal and locally-sourced produce, some of it from the hotel’s own gardens. Meals are served table d’hôte style and guests often sit together at the large tables in the dining room, although private dining can be arranged for those keen on a more secluded dining experience. All dietary needs can be catered for.

Guests can either make use of the hotel’s small fitness room or a nearby fitness centre. Massages and treatments can also be arranged.