New Zealand's Matakauri Lodge Named to 2011 Conde Nast Hot List

Every hotel in this list won its place the old-fashioned way - by earning it. After scrutinizing nearly a thousand of the hotels that opened worldwide over the past year, Condé Nast selected each one, anonymously, of course - trying out the beds, testing the staff, tasting the food. Finally, 124 properties ultimately won them over.

Spanning 43 countries and six continents, this year's Hot Hotels are an eclectic group, from tree houses to farmhouses. Despite the diversity, the hotels share a common standard in their artful blend of high style and a strong sense of place.

"The hotels and resorts considered for the Hot List are evaluated according to five exacting criteria (service, design, location, comfort and value for the money) and have to be deemed superlative" says Klara Glowczewska, Editor in Chief.

After an extensive makeover, Matakauri, positioned along milky-blue Lake Wakatipu, less than six miles from the center of Queenstown, has commanding views of the Big Three-the Remarkables, Cecil Peak, and Walter Peak-without a single man-made development sullying the splendor. The lodge maximizes its scenic surroundings with a number of gorgeous viewing platforms: a large infinity pool (though it is rarely warm enough for swimming), a pretty courtyard with a massive outdoor fireplace next to the dining and lounge area, and the accommodations themselves. Warmly designed in burnt orange and russet colors against white walls and stone elements, the two simple-yet-cozy suites and eight outlying cottages have a beachy feel, with daybeds in the suites, a freestanding tub in front of massive windows. Perhaps only an artist like Picasso could compete with nature on this scale-and in fact he does: Look for the plates and vase by the master in the main lounge as well as works by well-known New Zealand photographers and painters throughout the property. Staff are attentive and helpful, and while the dining is elegant, those with hearty appetites may want to skip the artfully presented but tiny-portioned ménu dégustation.

Which room to book: The decor is similar throughout, but the spaces flow more easily in the deluxe suites-Nos. 2 through 9-than in other rooms, where the layout feels slightly forced.

"Matakauri Lodge is a special place and our family are thrilled that we have opened to such unanimous acceptance from our guests. Being recognized by both Condé Nast Traveler USA, and Condé Nast Traveller UK as one of the world's hottest hotels is absolutely a great honor for the whole lodge team." says Managing Director Jay Robertson.

Most recently Matakauri Lodge won a place on the Condé Nast Traveller, UK Hot List 2011. Condé Nast Traveler, USA named The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs as the No. 1 Lodge/Resort in Australia + Pacific on the 2011 Gold List, The World's Best Places to Stay, and The Farm at Cape Kidnappers was recognized by Condé Nast Traveller, UK on the Gold List 2011, Best of the Best for Food. "X-factor Chef Dale Gartland makes excellent use of local produce, including seafood and New Zealand lamb and beef. The wine list is excellent."

Owned and developed by New Yorkers Josie and Julian Robertson, Matakauri Lodge, Queenstown on the South Island is the sister property to The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, Matauri Bay and The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, Hawke's Bay on the North Island. All are members of the exclusive and prestigious Relais & Chateaux collection.

Hotel Profile: Matakauri Lodge