By Coffee & Crayons

Our first stop in the South Island was Blenheim, home to Scenic Hotel Marlborough and from the moment we arrived, we felt completely at home. The staff were warm and welcoming, and the hotel itself had that cosy, relaxed feel you instantly settle into after a day of travel with kids.

Our rooms were perfect for families – interconnecting with a big king bed in one room and two singles in the other, plus two bathrooms (an absolute win when you’ve got little ones). Everything felt spacious yet homely, and we loved that it was right in the heart of town, close to everything but still peaceful.

The hotel has a pool, and even though it was winter, we decided to be brave and jump in, probably because we knew there was a beautiful spa and sauna area waiting for us afterwards! You can book it privately at no extra cost, which was such a bonus. It meant we could all relax together without worrying about other guests, and it quickly became one of our favourite parts of the stay.

We also loved the restaurant and bar onsite. It made life so easy with the kids as we could enjoy a proper meal, then be back in our room within minutes. Breakfast was a highlight: a mix of buffet favourites and à la carte dishes, all served in a bright restaurant overlooking Seymour Square across the road. Dinner was just as good, with hearty meals and local wines to choose from. And of course, we couldn’t resist ordering room service one night – dessert delivered straight to the door while watching a movie as a family. The kind of simple memory that somehow becomes one of the best parts of the trip.

Each morning, we’d start the day with a walk around the block, with the hills in the distance and the air crisp and clear. Blenheim is one of those towns that’s big enough to have everything you need but small enough to still feel relaxed. Everything’s easy from the parking, getting around to eating out. It also makes a great base for exploring the Marlborough region.

One spot we loved nearby was The Vines Café at The Vines Village – a vineyard hub that’s perfect for families. We went there a couple of times during our stay because it ticked every box: great food and coffee, a massive outdoor chessboard, multiple playgrounds, and wide open spaces for the kids to run and kick a ball. It’s one of those rare places where everyone can actually unwind.

From Blenheim, we explored in every direction. One of our favourite drives was up to the Marlborough Sounds, about 50 minutes away. We stopped along Queen Charlotte Drive for a short walk to a lookout with panoramic views across the sounds, it was absolutely breathtaking. We carried on to Picton, where we had lunch overlooking the harbour and visited the Edwin Fox, one of the world’s oldest surviving ships. The kids loved being able to see the ship and imagine what life was like back then.

We also took the drive to Nelson, just under two hours away and honestly, it might be one of the most beautiful routes in the country (that we’ve done anyway!). The landscape shifts from rolling vineyards to forested valleys and open coastline. Once in Nelson, there’s plenty to do for families such as the Classic Car Museum, the Natureland Wildlife Trust, and the Centre of New Zealand Walk for incredible views over the city. We had lunch by the water and spent the afternoon exploring before heading back to Blenheim as the sun set over the hills.

We also visited Lake Grassmere, about 35 minutes from the hotel. It’s known for its pink saltwater lakes, though they weren’t at their brightest when we visited, it was still really cool to see. The colour’s strongest in the warmer months, so if you visit in summer, it’s worth the trip.

On the way to Blenheim, we stopped at Kaikōura, famous for its whale watching and for being one of the only places in the world where you can see the ocean and snow-capped mountains at the same time. Even just pausing there for a walk and a coffee was enough to appreciate how stunning it is.

After each day out exploring, coming back to Scenic Hotel Marlborough felt like the calm after the adventure. We’d unwind in the spa, order dinner, or settle in for a slow night with a movie and dessert. It quickly became our home base, the kind of stay that makes travelling with kids feel relaxed and easy.

If you’re planning a South Island road trip, Scenic Hotel Marlborough is the perfect stop. It’s warm, family-friendly, and right in the heart of one of New Zealand’s most beautiful regions – surrounded by vineyards, mountain views, and so many easy day trips that you’ll wish you’d booked an extra night.

Written by @wearecoffeeandcrayons