Removed from the outside world and with nothing but sublime sea views for company on Pigeon Bay, the multi-award-winning Annandale hotel is actually set within an expanse of working farmland upon rugged clifftops, opening out to the Pacific Ocean.
The four properties here are each truly unique; set a good distance apart they offer an entirely different atmosphere and design from one to the next, though between them are able to cater for couples, families and groups alike.
From the family-friendly 19th Homestead with its spacious gardens, multiple bedrooms and balconies to the intimate Shepherd’s Cottage, a romantic wood-clad cabin primed for cosy nights next to the open fire and a rustic-chic bedroom in its loft.
There’s then the impossibly-cool and contemporary Seascape where wraparound walls of glass bring the outside in, and Scrubby Bay, a large luxury Christchurch villa with its own pool and unopposed sea views. Whatever your reasons for travelling to this wild part of New Zealand and whichever option you choose, staying at Annandale is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on your trip.
Being amidst such picturesque, untouched countryside, there’s nothing better than borrowing a bike or taking a hike to discover Annandale’s surrounding farmland and coast, easily done as your friendly hosts will happily hand you a map and even pack a delicious picnic on the day you arrive if you wish. For those who prefer to take things a little easier, however, you can enjoy an onsite cooking class to brush up on your Kiwi cuisine or take a trip to nearby Akaroa and jump aboard a nature-spotting cruise.
Then there is guided 4x4 farm tours on offer where – depending on the time of year – you may be lucky enough to watch the sheep shearers in action, some of the most skilled in the world and a sight not to be missed if looking to glimpse rural life in New Zealand first-hand, while staying on a working farm.
The beauty of Annandale lies in its unbeatable Christchurch setting, stunning views, intimate atmosphere and the chance to fill your days with as little or as much as you want, safe in the knowledge that the resort’s serenity will be waiting for you either way.
Sometimes there’s nothing left but to relax on your own private deck, sip a drink and admire the southern cross, as the stargazing from Annandale is first-class too; an authentic Kiwi travel experience.
Facilities



Accommodation Options
Four very different though equally enchanting villas make up the accommodation options at Annandale. At least 30 mins drive away from each other, these idyllic getaways are as secluded, intimate and irresistibly designed as it gets. Between the four you’ll find very distinctive personality and styles, albeit finished to the same high standard. For honeymooners visiting Christchurch, the Shepherd’s cottage is hard to beat with its inviting fireplace and cosy sofas, though the sea views and altogether contemporary vibe of Seascape and Scrubby Bay also have endless appeal. Throughout, there are certain mod-cons that do then exist in every room option, such as Wi-fi, digital televisions Sonos sound systems, fireplaces, a fully-functioning kitchen, tea and coffee making facilities, lounge areas and luxe bathrooms.




Restaurants

With the emphasis being on seclusion and privacy at Annandale, plus the villas being so far apart (around 30 minutes from each other) the Estate itself does not have an onsite restaurant. However, gourmet ‘ready to cook’ meals can be delivered to your doorstep, complete with simple preparation instructions. Annandale’s onsite vegetable patch, bursting with fresh produce, and meat reared on the farm itself also ensures that the cuisine here has been sustainably sourced too; always good to know. If you’re no budding chef however and simply want to put your feet up while away, simply hire a private chef who will turn up and cook it all to perfection; even easier!
Entertainment and Activities
In an area that is so completely isolated, you could be forgiven for thinking that activities here are kept to a minimum. That could not be further from the truth, as the stretch of Canterbury coastline that Annandale Villas inhabits is known for its outdoor adventure and natural sights. Spend a day on the water kayaking, a favourite pastime for many New Zealanders, or simply stroll around the gorgeous gardens of Annandale before heading out on a coastal walk or bike ride, in search of visiting marine life. You could take to the skies with a helicopter flight and see this awe-inspiring region from a whole new angle or head into Akaroa and enjoy a day of wildlife spotting, watching the penguins go about their business will entertain for hours! With cooking classes, watersports and 4 x drives available too, there will be plenty to fill your days while at Annandale.
Facilities
The self-contained cottages at Annandale are fully-equipped, ready to make your luxury stay in Pigeon Bay as effortless as possible. For any additional requirements, your helpful concierge is poised to assist. There are bikes and kayaks to borrow, a state-of-the-art gym with views of the bay and personal trainers on-hand too, tennis courts and a swimming pool for Homestead guests as well as 4 x 4 vehicle tours for everyone, a great way to explore the 4,000-acre estate and wider region alike.
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