Retreat offers rare slice of Central Otago living

An expansive private retreat surrounded by vineyards and mountains has come to market in Gibbston, offering a rare combination of substantial living, privacy and an established connection to one of Central Otago’s most celebrated wine regions.

Mt Rosa Lodge at 55E Gibbston Back Road occupies 2.46 hectares in an elevated position above the valley, with sweeping views across the surrounding vineyards and alpine landscape.

At its heart is a 428sqm five-bedroom residence designed by Snavect Design, with five ensuite bathrooms, generous interconnected living spaces, a wine cellar and triple-car garaging.

Bayleys Queenstown salesperson Sarena Glass says the property stands out for its ability to deliver the scale and privacy of a rural retreat without feeling disconnected from the wider Queenstown lifestyle.

“You come up through this incredible landscape and immediately feel removed from everything, yet Arrowtown, Queenstown and some of the region’s best wineries and hospitality are all within easy reach,” Glass says.

“It’s substantial, but it is also incredibly warm and liveable. The home has been designed around the landscape, so whether you’re in the kitchen, entertaining, sitting by the fire or outside with friends, you’re constantly connected to the views.”

Built in 2007, the property has been designed for both everyday living and entertaining, with high ceilings, exposed timber detailing and expansive glazing framing the surrounding countryside.

Multiple living and dining spaces flow to established gardens and outdoor entertaining areas, while open indoor and outdoor fireplaces, underfloor heating and heat pumps cater to Gibbston’s distinct seasons.

The five bedrooms are all generously proportioned and include built-in wardrobes and their own ensuite bathrooms, while the master suite also features a walk-in wardrobe.

Glass says its configuration also gives the property an unusual degree of flexibility.

“This is a home that can accommodate a lot of people without ever feeling crowded. There is room for family and friends to stay, but the layout also allows everyone to have their own space.

“For a buyer looking for a permanent home, a Central Otago retreat or somewhere they can spend extended periods with family, that flexibility is incredibly appealing.”

Adding to the property’s appeal is its existing 365-day visitor accommodation consent. Mt Rosa Lodge currently operates as an intimate boutique accommodation offering, with three individually appointed guest suites that have their own private entrances, ensuites and connections to the surrounding vineyard and landscape.

Rather than defining the property, Glass says the accommodation component gives its next owner options.

“You could buy Mt Rosa Lodge and simply enjoy it as an extraordinary private home. Alternatively, there is an established accommodation offering that could be continued selectively around the owner’s own use of the property.”

“The property doesn’t need to operate as a lodge to make sense, but the infrastructure and history are there for someone who wants that opportunity.”

Completing the picture is approximately 0.3 hectares of mature Pinot Noir vines, comprising around 950 vines.

While modest in scale, the vineyard has developed an impressive pedigree. Its fruit is used for Mt Rosa Lodge’s own La Bella Rosa Pinot Noir and Wild Irishman’s Three Colleens, with wines produced from the site receiving scores of up to 97 points alongside international competition and critical recognition.

Glass says the vineyard adds another layer of authenticity to a property already deeply connected to its setting.

“The vineyard isn’t the reason you have to buy Mt Rosa Lodge, but it is a wonderful part of what makes the property special.”

“There is something quintessentially Central Otago about being able to look out over your own mature vines and then open a bottle of Pinot Noir that was actually grown there. It gives the property a story and sense of place.”

The wider grounds include established landscaping, outdoor entertaining areas, a pétanque court, fenced and gated paddock and storage facilities, with the property positioned among some of Gibbston’s best-known wine and lifestyle destinations.

Glass says Mt Rosa Lodge ultimately presents a rare opportunity for buyers seeking a substantial Queenstown-region property with more than one dimension.

“It has the home, the land, the privacy and the views, but then you have these additional elements that elevate it beyond a conventional lifestyle property.

“You can live here privately, welcome guests, continue the wine story or simply enjoy everything that has already been established. The next owner gets to decide what Mt Rosa Lodge becomes for them.”