Why guests return to Laurella
Across the years, many of our guests have returned to Laurella more than once.
Some come back for the peaceful gardens.
Some for the wineries and relaxed pace of Marlborough.
Others simply because Laurella has become their favourite place to escape, reconnect and unwind.
Knowing guests choose to return is one of the greatest compliments we can receive.
★★★★★
"Wow, Wow, Wow!!! This place is unbelievable. Lots of hard work has gone into making this place look amazing. Our stay here was like nothing else! Homemade jams, free range eggs all of it was top shelf and an amazing touch to the service. Thank you so much for having us. We did not want to leave this beautiful cottage. Staying here finished off our wedding weekend beautifully. Thanks again Sue & Dave for our unforgettable experience. "
— Laura-Jean and Daniel, New Zealand
★★★★★
"Thank you so much for your very warm welcome to Laurella Cottage and your hospitality. What a glorious corner of paradise you have created here. Laurella Cottage is perfect – beautifully decorated with just the right balance of nostalgia and modern comforts. Your garden is magnificent and is obviously a labour of love. We have loved our couple of days in Laurella and much appreciate the extra touches of home baking, preserves and local fruits. We will definitely be recommending Laurella to any of our friends heading down this way. "
— Fiona & Peter, Waiheke, Auckland
★★★★★
"Dear Sue & Dave,
It’s rare when a place exceeds the already high expectations set by your lovely website …. Laurella Cottage has done it!
First off the quality of the design and build of Laurella Cottage is absolutely top notch, and the décor is sunny and sophisticated. The experience is dramatically enhanced by your spectacular gardens, with their unique juxtaposition of wild and well tamed, finally the genuine warmth of your hospitality puts a stay at Laurella Cottage in the unforgettable category. We will return and tell our fellow travellers to do the same."
— Judy and John, Boston USA
Many guests arrive looking for somewhere peaceful to explore Marlborough's famous wineries and gardens. They leave talking about the warm hospitality, the beautiful gardens, the thoughtfully restored cottage and the feeling of having discovered somewhere truly special.
We're incredibly grateful for every kind word shared with us, and we hope these experiences give you a glimpse of what awaits during your own stay at Laurella Cottage.
Your hosts, Sue & Dave
★★★★★
"What a treasure you have here at Laurella Cottage! After travelling for two weeks and staying in hotels, we were so pleased to be welcomed into your perfectly appointed cottage. All your personal touches show how much love has gone into making Laurella a cherished home. Thank you for sharing your baby with us, we will miss the serenity of the gardens when we travel to the North Island. Much gratitude, "
— Liz and Andy, New York
★★★★★
"There is a clear theme in this guest book, your cottage is a respite in a disorderly world. What struck us, however, was your embrace of a project, your absolute vision, the resurrection of what others would have discarded. We stay in nice places, but it is so much more meaningful to find a place that truly reflects the nature of the people who created it. Thanks for sharing your vision and also the plums and apples."
— David & Nancy, Chicago
★★★★★
"Wow! Just Wow!
We are struggling to recall another stay that combines such a lovingly designed cottage, stunning gardens, brilliant location, surprise delights and incredibly warm hospitality. Laurella Cottage is a truly unique proposition. With expectations already high, you guys smashed them out of the ballpark with the detail and sheer beauty of the property. Wishing you and Laurella cottage many successful years ahead."
— Angus & Indy, Sydney
★★★★★
"What a wonderful location to spend a few days relaxing and tasting the local wines. We loved the cottage. It has been a home away from home with welcoming hospitality. The gardens are beautiful with colourful blooms and the hosts Sue & Dave are thoughtful and upbeat. We will recommend this as a must stay cottage."
— Meg & Scott, Denver, Colorado
