Queenstown is full of touristy hostels and hotels, uninteresting accommodation options for lazy travellers. Those in the know book a room at Sherwood, a new design-conscious place to sleep, eat and drink. The hotel was previously a run down mock-tudor motor inn, until three friends with a creative vision bought the unwanted property and started an exciting transformation.
The newly renovated and revived collection of buildings offers guests and locals a range of activities and dining options. Join one of the early morning yoga classes or rent mountain bikes to explore town. Head to the bar for a cocktail, a meal or even listen to a band in the multi-purpose venue.
During my tour of New Zealand I visited Sherwood for a few nights stay. The retro red and white alpine lodge exteriors are a surprising contrast to the modern minimalist bedrooms. Inside, the stylish but functional furniture and features instantly reminded me of the successful Ace hotel brand. The simple and bold design is appealing and satisfying: exposed light bulbs, utilitarian enamel kitchenware and specially made Sherwood branded blankets on the beds. In the basic bathrooms there are complimentary ‘The Woods’ toiletries for guests to use. From the bedroom windows we were lucky to have views of glorious Lake Wakatipu.
The restaurant at the Sherwood is fast becoming a foodie destination in its own right. Queenstown residents flock to try the delicious weekend brunch dishes, or spend their evenings enjoying cocktails and comfort food. We spent an evening at the chef’s table, and relished the opportunity to question chef Ainsley Thompson about her dishes and the food scene in the area. The food was comforting with a creative twist, accompanied with clever wine pairings. Highlights included the addictive creamy polenta with smoked tomato salsa, sensational crispy pressed pork shoulder with fennel & orange and a subtle elderflower and strawberry jelly for dessert. Also memorable was the beautifully light Tempranillo Rosé from Central Otago, which they buy by the barrel and bottle in house.
Breakfast is very much a casual affair, served in the same dining room, with a gourmet buffet selection during the week and a lavish brunch menu on weekends. Coffee fans will be pleased to discover the ‘Supreme coffee’ shop, where I ordered my daily flat white. Try to visit on a weekend so you can head to an Awakening Power yoga class and then relax afterwards with a Chorizo and green pepper tortilla or French toast with strawberry and red currents.
The Sherwood team continue to explore all the possibilities, so they can make the most of this exciting space. I loved spending a few days exploring and experiencing the Sherwood brand, and I got the feeling that there is much more to come from this brilliant boutique concept.
More information and book a room at Sherwood here.
