Elite Traveler Spring 2019

G R E AT O U T D O O R S

HELI-FISHING NEW ZEALAND

The Marlborough Lodge is a charming boutique hotel with just 10 rooms in the middle of New Zealand’s Marlborough wine region. It’s tranquil and secluded, and a lovely spot to use as a base to explore the surroundings — a glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc will be waiting upon your return. Soar by helicopter over the Marlborough Sounds before arriving on D’Urville Island for fly-fishing. The island is located off the northern coast of the South Island, and was discovered by French explorer Jules Dumont D’Urville. At just 58 square miles and with around 50 residents, it’s secluded and mysterious, and is one of the country’s best fishing locations. Landing on a remote outcrop, you’ll be in the best spot for a guaranteed catch. While the fish may not be the biggest you’ve ever seen, they are certainly plentiful and always biting — blue cod and trout abound. Armed with your catch of the day, you’ll reboard the helicopter and fly to a remote bay for a lunch of blue cod sashimi and grilled blue cod, washed down with fine wine. On the flight back to the lodge, you’ll fly via Mount Richmond Forest Park and over the Wairau Valley. From $1,750 per night. Contact Peter White, general manager, reservations@themarlboroughlodge.co.nz, +63 357 057 00, themarlboroughlodge.co.nz

SKIMARATHON SWITZERLAND

If you’re a keen cross-country skier, you’re probably aware of the Engadin Skimarathon — a 26-mile race through the stunning Swiss Alps. The event is held annually on the second Sunday in March (giving you plenty of time to train for 2020). The current record holder is Hervé Balland, who came in first in 1994 with a super-speedy time of one hour and 16 minutes. Even if you aren’t looking to whiz around the course at a breakneck pace, the views of the snow-capped peaks and endless blanketed fields are mesmerizing. Post-race, head to Suvretta House — a charming, family-run hotel nestled in the Upper Engadine alpine valley. The fitness facilities are excellent, and the expert staff can assist with training for the ski marathon. A post-marathon massage in the charming spa is a must, and be sure to have a luxuriating soak in the outdoor hot tub as snow flakes drift by. Tower Suite from $3,200 per night. Contact Esther Egli, general manager, info@suvrettahouse.ch, +44 818 363 636, suvrettahouse.ch