Seascape at Annandale – Hotel Review
Robinson Crusoe famously disliked castaway life but he might’ve felt differently had he been marooned at Seascape, a couple of hours’ drive from Christchurch. The “castaway concept” is front and centre at the retreat, which sits on a sheltered bay on an already remote farm, where the only sounds are crashing waves. Thrilling as the isolation is, the property is anything but basic: you’ll find an in-ground jacuzzi, wi-fi, indoor and outdoor gas fireplaces, soaking tub, private chef and dramatic ocean views through floor to ceiling windows.
Where is Seascape at Annandale?
“Remote” describes Seascape well: the entrance to the farm it’s on is more than 90 minutes by winding country road from Christchurch Airport. It then takes about 40 minutes along gravel coastal roads to reach Seascape itself – it’s no surprise most guests arrive by 11-minute helicopter ride.
Room types
Earn Qantas Points
Guests rent the entire retreat, ensuring total privacy. Concrete floors (which are heated, of course) mix with stone walls, timber beams, a turf roof and enormous windows. Much larger than it appears, it’s a “cove within a cove”, according to guest services manager Caroline Hutchinson. The oversized bed at the centre of the main room takes in the spectacular view.
Restaurants and bars
The refrigerators and cupboards are stocked with everything needed, including a number of champagnes, such as Louis Roederer. The real treat though is a private chef. Chilean-born Rodrigo Marín Rost uses what’s on the farm – and even makes the bread himself. He will prepare a set dinner menu using ingredients such as fish caught earlier that day or you can tailor your menu for an additional cost.
Travel for work
There’s high-speed wi-fi – impressive considering it took 16 kilometres of underground cable to have electricity. But Seascape is intended as a place to escape the world.
Spa and gym
From the in-ground jacuzzi with distracting views of the bay to an enormous soaking tub with equally incredible vistas (that one also gets sitting on the loo), a stay can feel soul-cleansing. Then there’s the many kilometres of private shoreline to explore on foot.
What you need to know
There are no other humans around. Seals, dolphins and even whales sometimes visit the bay and sheep occasionally stop to dine on Seascape’s turf roof.
Best for: Couples, particularly honeymooners
Number of rooms: One (guests rent out the entire property)
From: NZ$3,785 per night (personal chef dinner additional NZ$595 per night).
Wi-fi: Free and fast
Parking: Available at the entrance to Annandale, although guests usually arrive at Seascape by helicopter or have a driver take them to the villa.
Address: 130 Wharf Road, Pigeon Bay
Telephone: +64 27 566 8776
