Blanket Bay: Glenorchy, New Zealand
Celebrated as one of the world’s finest hideaways, Blanket Bay is a collection of grand superlatives nestled in the lap of New Zealand’s rustic lodge tradition. Thirteen sumptuous rooms, suites and chalets, resplendent in polished wood and fine fabrics, create a sanctuary of comfort, and come complete with balconies or terraces featuring sweeping views across the lake. Designed by Jim McLaughlin, Sun Valley, Idaho’s architect-to-the-stars, Blanket Bay invites guests to play in all four of New Zealand’s heavenly seasons. Whether flight-seeing Milford Sound, heliskiing the Harris Mountains, fly or helifishing, jet boating, rafting or biking, incomparable film-worthy views surround. Tramp the Routeburn, Greenstone/Caples, Rees/Dart or the Milford Track, visit Mt. Earnslaw Glacier, Wayuna Preserve, or Fiordland National Park and surrounding UNESCO World Heritage sites, and return to exquisite lodge amenities that lend a relaxing, healing touch. Acclaimed chefs present native mise-en-scène cuisine in the sophisticated Lake View dining room overlooking Wakatipu, in the intimate Wine Cave, or the open-air patio. Just 35 minutes from Queenstown, Blanket Bay promises an unforgettable luxury hospitality experience in the heart of the pristine Southern Alps.
General Manager Philip Jenkins has managed Blanket Bay from inception to date, and was elected to the International Board of Directors of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World in 2000, retiring that post in 2011.
The Concierge Questionnaire: Philip Jenkins, General Manager
What is your favorite word to describe Glenorchy?
Revitalising.
What word best reflects the people of Glenorchy?
Inspiring.
What is the most creative, spiritual or emotional place in Glenorchy?
Blanket Bay.
The perfectly poised mountains guard Lake Wakatipu, framing the views with some of the world’s most pristine environments. Many films, including Peter Jackson’s interpretation of 'Lord of the Rings', have shot award-winning footage here.
What is your favorite outdoor activity in Glenorchy?
Heliskiing.
”Blanket Bay offers an À La Carte Heliskiing menu to suit a wide range of skiing and snowboarding abilities. Each heliski option has been carefully designed to offer a great degree of flexibility, allowing everyone to experience the tranquility, freedom and exhilaration of heliskiing.”
What is your favorite indoor activity in Glenorchy? Preparing to go outside.
What is your favorite sound or noise in Glenorchy? Silence.
What is your favorite smell or taste in Glenorchy?
Bluff Oysters.
Creamy, with a delicate flavor, Bluff Oysters, raised slowly in the clear, cold water of the Foveaux Strait, are thought by many to be the finest in the world.
What drink best reflects Glenorchy?
Pinot Noir.
Blanket Bay is in the Central Otago Region. It is one of the few regions in the world which has a climate well suited to growing the French grape variety of Pinot Noir. We have long hot days and cool evenings, letting the vines ripen slowly over a long period, which means balanced and bright fruit flavors. We have mostly glacial and alluvial soils creating the draining Pinot Noir prefers.
Naturally the Blanket Bay bar allows guests to taste this unique wine (amongst many others) during the complimentary pre dinner cocktail hour.
What song or type of music best reflects Glenorchy?
Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 1, op. 15.
If Heaven were Glenorchy, what would God say to a visitor when they arrive at the Pearly Gates? This is the first place I made.
Blanket Bay: Glenorchy, New Zealand • Rapid 4191, Glenorchy, New Zealand • Phone: 643-441-0115 or 800-525-4800
