To the east lies Lake Wānaka, to the west is the crystalline Lake Hawea. On a 7000-acre high country station between them is an immersive private villa — the latest in luxury accommodation by hotelier The Lindis Group.
Designed by Queenstown-based Ground Up Studio, the building itself is a work of art; jagged geometric cornices are staggered, echoing the peaks of the mountains behind it, while from above the lines of the copper roof could be perceived as the contours of a flowing river.
Unlike other lodges, Mt Isthmus Villa is only hired as a whole, allowing groups the ultimate escapist luxury. A private chef is on site daily, with menus customised for each group using the finest locally sourced ingredients and prepared in a decadent kitchen.
Four suites cater to up to eight guests. Various entertaining areas — indoors and out — are defined by sumptuous soft furnishings; polished concrete floors meet warm timber and vast glazing framing remarkable alpine views; the pièce de résistance, an in-floor gas fire pyramid, creates a striking interior feature. This remote private getaway is undoubtedly a place to delve into the rich seasonal experiences the region has to offer — from cuisine to outdoor pursuits and complete relaxation.
