Azur

It would be hard to imagine a more perfect view than the one from the nine free-standing villas at Azur, one of Queenstown’s – and indeed all of New Zealand’s – finest and most luxurious retreats.

Newly-opened in December 2004 and perched on a hillside five minutes drive from the centre of Queenstown, each villa – made from silver beechwood and stone to blend with the surroundings – boasts uninterrupted views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountains. Floor-to-ceiling windows take full advantage of the breathtaking scenery, as does the large outside deck – ideal for enjoying those warm summer’s evenings!

Each villa offers total comfort and privacy – and a generous 90 square metres in which to relax. At one end of the villa, a king bed is perfectly positioned to enjoy the views, whilst at the other, the cosy living area boasts a fireplace, comfortable seating and a plasma television. The indulgent bathrooms feature a free-standing spa bath set beside picture windows, ‘his and hers’ sink and separate shower and toilet. Rest assured that once inside your villa, you just won’t want to leave!

Azur's main lodge building houses the reception as well as a guest lounge where afternoon tea and pre-dinner wine and canapés are available. Breakfast is served in the privacy of your villa and as each evening draws closer, the attentive staff will happily drive you to one of Queenstown’s fabulous restaurants, or arrange for a meal to be delivered to your villa. Azur is renowned for its warm personal service – and its focus on the small details – such as seeking out your favourite DVD or your wine preference.

Azur was one of only two New Zealand hotels to be mentioned in Condé Nast Traveller's 2006 'Hot List'.

PRICES Prices from £198 per person per night, based on 2 people sharing including breakfast, afternoon tea, complimentary mini-bar and airport transfers. Fly to New Zealand (Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch)  via Los Angeles or Hong Kong on the award winning services of Air New Zealand from only £890 including taxes and fuel surcharges. Please ask your consultant about upgrading to spacious Pacific Premium from only £280 per sector.