Pihopa Retreat

One of the highlights of our 3 week trip to New Zealand this past March was our stay at the Pihopa Retreat in Nelson. Everything there exceeded our already high expectations. From the room, with its incredibly comfortable bed, thoughtful little surprises everywhere you looked - stocked fridge, teas and treats to enjoy every afternoon, notebook with helpful hints and suggestions, to the evening pre-dinner drinks and snacks, and the waiting complimentary taxi to take us to dinner and back, to the beautiful grounds and facilities (my husband even did some weightlifting in their gym), and the amazing breakfast served in the chapel every morning, we loved every minute of our stay here. Thank you, Sarah, for all your hard work in creating such a wonderful retreat. We will be back!

Arriving at Pihopa Retreat, we were all immediately captivated by the charm and attention to detail that Sarah and Sam have infused into every aspect of this beautiful haven. I just loved the history of the property and how each detail had been so beautifully restored; the result was enchanting, like stepping into a storybook setting, complete with lush gardens and stunning views. Sarah's warm welcome set the tone for a stay that promised—and delivered—exceptional hospitality. It was definitely the most impressive of all luxury lodges in New Zealand. The cottage was outfitted with everything we could possibly want, making it clear that Sarah and Sam anticipate their guests' every need. From the wide selection of teas to delicious baking, not to mention a well-stocked bar, every element was chosen with care. The room was a combination of pure luxury and a cozy retreat; the bed felt like sleeping on a cloud, the beautiful bathroom felt like pure indulgence, not to mention the cozy fireplace to relax in front of in comfortable armchairs. The gourmet breakfast in the historic chapel, a beautiful space, added an extra touch of magic to our morning. The chef was fantastic. I have never written a review before on TripAdvisor, but this was such a memorable experience that stood out and will be one for the memory banks. Sarah and Sam's exceptional service and the tranquil environment they've created made our visit truly special. We left feeling refreshed and cherished, already planning our next visit to this remarkable retreat. Would give 6 stars if l could.

The accommodation was fantastic! Many thanks to Sarah, who leaves nothing to be desired and takes care of everything with great attention to detail. The room was very comfortable, large and cozy. The breakfast in the chapel, which is part of the property, was exceptional. A total hit! If we come to Nelson again, we will definitely come back to Sarah and her family

Pihopa Retreat provides the best personalized experience. Sarah and the staff took very good care of us during our stay. Sarah arranged our dinner reservations and provided conmplemenary taxi service to and from the restaurants. Our room was immaculate and the treats for afternoon tea were a pleasant surprise. Breakfasts in the chapel were delicious. We would highly recommend staying at Phihop Retreat when visiting Nelson. We hope to visit again some day.

This was by far the most exquisite stay of our trip - a former bishop's residence and grounds. We had an apartment with fireplace, complimentary stocked bar, baked treats each afternoon, breakfast in an old church, cocktails each evening with other guests by the pool. The manager was ever present & kept everything in perfect order with her inviting, friendly manner. Staff was most attentive. We highly recommend it!

By far one of the top places we have stayed at in all of our travel to over 15 countries. The owner Sarah’s hospitality and attention to detail (afternoon treats, making advance restaurant bookings, arranging complimentary taxis, breakfast table items, even doing a load of laundry, the list goes on) was the most immaculate part of the experience. It overshadowed the fact that the rooms were also beautiful and in a picturesque estate. Would not miss out if you can stay here.

Just WOW! This was our favorite place over a six-week vacation in New Zealand and Australia. Only sorry we couldn't stay more than 2 nights. As others have noted, it is perfection. The property -- once an Anglican retreat and college -- has been lovingly and beautifully restored and adapted into a luxurious hotel/5-star B&B. There are only six suites and they are spacious, with every amenity one could think of, and bathrooms to die for. Sarah, innkeeper extraordinaire, is a most gracious and warm host and thinks of everything. Rooms include a complimentary drinks/food bar with good wine, all kinds of treats, coffee, tea and fresh milk, and heavenly pastries baked fresh daily. The beds are beyond comfy and curling up in the leather armchairs before a gas fire each evening, wine in hand, was a delightful way to end the day. Sarah makes reservations for dinner and cabs to and from the town are complimentary. The on-site breakfast is sumptuous, served in the original church, and a wine and canapes hour every evening was another treat. There's also a heated pool, a wonderful spot to relax after a day of activity. I can't say enough about the uniqueness of this place and only wish it were closer to the U.S. so I could visit regularly. If you're planning to be in Nelson and the Abel Tasman Park area, this is THE place to stay.

Pihopa has the wow factor ! A warm welcome awaits at this amazing retreat. The rooms are sumptuous, with every amenity and treat such as delicious cake to have with afternoon tea. The view from our balcony was amazing, the vista taking you through trees down to the sea. Everything has been thought of to make your stay memorable and the host, Sarah goes the extra mile to make your time at this amazing place feel extra special. Breakfasts were just incredible - a feast for the eyes. We really enjoyed the complimentary drinks and canapés at 6pm in the pool house. A complimentary taxi would arrive to whisk you to dinner in town and was there to bring you back again. We loved every minute of our stay here and hope to be back soon!

This place is magical and without a doubt a must stay if anywhere near Nelson! We were amazed! There are only 6 rooms, cabins really. Immaculate, comfortable, modern, private and perfect! The service is 5 star. Breakfast is included and very special, served in a chapel on grounds, evening appetizers are served in the pool house and are plentiful, every day in your room there are homemade desserts. Because there is no restaurant on site, they make reservations for you at terrific restaurants and so that you don’t have to drive, you are given a debit card to pay a taxi to pick you up and bring you back at their expense. Amazing service. This place doesn’t skimp on anything, service, food, comfort. One evening we were too tired to go out to eat so we asked if we could just have cheese and crackers, Sarah had way more than cheese and crackers prepared for us and there was no charge when we checked out. Best place we stayed and most memorable.