Saturday, 29 March 2025

An Unforgettable Anniversary Escape at Hillcrest, Canopy Escapes

 

Eleven years of marriage is something worth celebrating, and each year we make a point of getting away together to slow down, reconnect, and create new memories. Over the years, we’ve stayed in quite a few glamping spots around New Zealand, but this year, for our 11th wedding anniversary, we found something truly special: Hillcrest at Canopy Escapes in Martinborough.

From the moment we arrived, we knew this was going to be one of the most memorable stays yet. Nestled on a secluded hilltop, Hillcrest offers breathtaking panoramic views, complete privacy, and a sense of tranquillity that instantly melts away the stress of everyday life.


Ready to take a look around with me?

A Hilltop Cabin Like No Other

We’ve experienced a fair share of beautifully designed off-grid stays, but Hillcrest truly stood out. The interior design was the nicest we’ve seen—a perfect blend of warmth, style, and comfort. Every detail, from the high-quality furnishings to the soft lighting and natural textures, was thoughtfully curated to create a space that felt both luxurious and inviting.

A Kitchen That Feels Like Home

One thing that really set Hillcrest apart was the fully equipped kitchen, making it easy to prepare meals without feeling like we were "roughing it" at all. Unlike many glamping stays, this cabin had everything you could possibly need—a fridge, an oven, a microwave, and even a dishwasher (such a treat when you’re on a getaway!). Whether it was morning coffee or tea on the deck, a lazy brunch, or a romantic dinner, we had all the comforts of home while still feeling completely off-grid.

A Thoughtful Welcome

A small but lovely touch that made our stay even more special was the mini welcome basket waiting for us when we arrived. Filled with chocolate, nuts, and muesli bars, it was a perfect little treat after our drive. It’s those thoughtful details that make a place feel extra welcoming, and Hillcrest nailed it.

And the bed—wow! Hands down, one of the comfiest beds we’ve ever slept in. The plush bedding and crisp linen made it almost impossible to get up in the morning (but with a view like that, waking up was still a dream).

The Swing, the Views & Slowing Down

One of our favourite features was the beautiful wooden swing on the front porch, perfectly positioned to take in the sweeping views. I spent time gently swaying, soaking in the stillness around me. It was the kind of simple pleasure that makes you pause, breathe deeper, and feel truly present in the moment.

Slowing Down & Soaking It All In

One of the best parts of our anniversary getaways is the chance to slow down together—no schedules, no distractions, just us. We spent the afternoon unwinding on the deck, taking in the views, and enjoying the complete stillness around us.

As the sun dipped below the hills, we poured a glass of wine and soaked in the outdoor bath, watching the sky turn from deep blue to a blanket of stars. With no city lights in sight, the stargazing was unreal—just one of those magical moments where everything feels perfect.

A Place Worth Returning To

Our stay at Hillcrest was one of the best we’ve ever had. It was private, peaceful, and effortlessly romantic—the perfect way to celebrate 11 years of marriage. Each year, we search for a new place to mark another trip around the sun together, but something tells me this won’t be our last visit to Hillcrest.


If you’re looking for a place to unwind, reconnect, and celebrate something special, Hillcrest at Canopy Escapes is it. Whether it’s an anniversary, a birthday, or just a weekend away, this hidden retreat in Martinborough is pure magic.

Until next time… 💛

1 comment:

  1. Thank you for this lovely blog post, we are so glad that you enjoyed all that Hillcrest has to offer, it was an absolute pleasure to host Jake & yourself, we hope to see you again soon. Lianne x

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