Whare Kea Lodge, Lake Wanaka, New Zealand

If shoving at the buffet puts you off your lunch…

Tranquility comes with a side order of farm-to-table produce at New Zealand's remote Whare Kea Lodge. The six-room resort's minimalist interiors and modern glass-and-steel design (basically one big window topped with a roof) capitalize on the beauty of mirrorlike Lake Wanaka and the craggy, snow-capped Southern Alps. While the surrounding landscape is the real star here, the food runs a close second. Aperitifs and canapés in the Scandinavian-inspired sunken lounge are the prelude to multicourse meals created by chef James Stapley around seasonal treats such as asparagus or local white truffles. Expect earthy dishes like beef fillet with roasted mushrooms and young leeks or rabbit ballotine laced with tarragon. Sadly, wine is not included, but you won't be disappointed if you pony up for a bottle from the surrounding Central Otago region, which is fast getting a reputation for its stellar Pinot Noirs and Gewürztraminers.

Whare Kea Lodge
Lake Wanaka
South Island, New Zealand
Tel: 64 3 443 1400
Doubles from around $900, including breakfast, four-course dinner, and predinner drinks and canapés

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