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Hillcrest

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Hillcrest

Martinborough, Wellington-Wairarapa


Hillcrest is 15 minutes from Martinborough and an hour and a half from Wellington City.

Set amidst a stunning Wairarapa landscape, the cabin is a true haven.

Beautifully furnished with a blend of modern and rustic pieces, the interior is tranquil and serene. A crackling fireplace in the corner creates the perfect cosy reading nook. A fully equipped kitchen runs along the back of the open-plan living area.

Through the sliding barn doors, you'll find a spacious bedroom with an ensuite. Step outdoors onto a large patio with outdoor seating and views for miles. If you're quiet enough, you may spot wild deer roaming in the rolling hills.

As night falls, gaze upon the spectacular display of stars as you roast marshmallows over the brazier, or enjoy a soothing soak in the outdoor bathtub beneath the magical Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve.

And if you feel like exploring, Martinborough is close by and renowned for its exceptional food and wine.

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Eating and drinking near Escape

EATING AND DRINKING

Hillcrest is self-catering. Just bring your own food and drink, and cook meals using the oven, four-ring gas cooktop and Weber BBQ provided. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

Martinborough is a paradise for foodies and wine enthusiasts, boasting many cafes, restaurants, and wineries. For a wine and dine experience, your hosts recommend visiting Moy Hall Vineyard, The Runholder, Poppies, Palliser Estate Winery and Luna Estate (all within half an hour's drive).

For brunch/lunch and a cuppa coffee, check out Nara, In The Neighbourhood Coffee House and Cafe Medici in the Martinborough township.

The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is at Pain and Kershaw (P&K) supermarket in Martinborough, 15 minutes away.

Things to do near Escape

THINGS TO DO

Retreat from the world and completely unwind at Hillcrest. The cabin has board games, books, puzzles, cards, a brazier, and binoculars for stargazing - all provided for your enjoyment.

Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely stroll up the property's "Trig Walk Track" marked by signs to show the way. The gently inclined path takes approximately 20 minutes to reach the top. Lay out your picnic blanket and savour a bottle of Martinborough wine as you take in the stunning sunset views, and if conditions permit cosy up and watch the night sky come alive in the heart of Wairarapa's Dark Sky Reserve.

If you're looking for adventure beyond wine and dining, Martinborough offers exciting day trips to explore. For the adventurous types, check out Patuna Chasm caves, 30 minutes away. Head out on a day trip to Cape Palliser to the lighthouse and The Pinnacles walking trail, an hour-and-a-half drive away. Continue driving another 45 minutes to Lake Ferry for the best fish and chips you'll ever have!

Rent a push bike in Martinborough for a scenic ride along the famous Wine Trail, or head out to the boutique shops and cafes in town. There's something for everyone to enjoy!

Your hosts at Escape

YOUR HOSTS

Your hosts at Hillcrest are Lianne and Keith.

Lianne and Keith have owned the property for 35 years now. Keith's a builder and farmer, while Lianne works out of her home studio handcrafting artisan candles & natural home decor pieces under her Wild Poetry label.

Their journey into glamping began with a desire to share their scenic property with others. Feeling it unfair that their livestock enjoyed the best views, they longed for a cabin atop the hill. When their sons, Scott and Brett, left home, they seized the opportunity to fulfil their dream. Now, they're excited to offer this tranquil space as a luxurious retreat for guests to unwind and recharge.

Named after its elevated location, Hillcrest offers a peaceful view atop the crest of the hill.

TESTIMONIALS

“ Such accommodating hosts, an incredible spot with all the facilities you need to make the most of the time spent on site. Highly recommend. ”

Ellen Flett- 2025-06-10

20 / 20

“ We had an amazing stay at Hillcrest. We absolutely loved the cabin and everything in it. Sorry to be leaving. You've ruined it for anywhere else we may stay as it is hard to beat. ”

Lorraine Barr- 2026-04-14

1 / 20

“ I have never been able to relax anywhere until I stayed at Hillcrest. What an incredible place to unwind and absolutely beautifully decorated. ”

Rob and Shelley Mancer- 2026-04-09

2 / 20

“ We had an amazing stay at Hillcrest!!! The setting is stunning and the cabin is beautifully furnished, with everything you could need and more! We especially loved relaxing in the outdoor bath and cape cod chairs and highly recommended to anyone wanting to escape the city to disconnect for a few days. ”

Sighle Illston- 2026-04-07

3 / 20

“ Fantastic stay. Amazing location and perfectly set up. ”

Richard Fletcher- 2026-03-10

4 / 20

“ We have stayed in many Canopy Camping escapes, and this was certainly one of the best for us. The space is very well thought out, providing everything we needed along with wonderful extra touches and fantastic views. It was a great place to unwind and relax. ”

Dee-Anne Herdman- 2026-02-24

5 / 20

“ We had a lovely stay at Hillcrest. Lianne was communicative and helpful while still giving us complete privacy. The outdoor bath was a highlight, with stunning views that made the stay extra special. We’d definitely stay again and highly recommend it. ”

Kendrah Worsley- 2026-02-17

6 / 20

“ The most relaxing weekend we’ve had in a long time! We can’t wait for our next stay! ”

Wei-Yan Fan- 2026-02-13

7 / 20

“ It was an absolutely amazing stay so peaceful. We loved it. The views are amazing, the place is so good with everything you need. ”

Maddir Gulley- 2026-02-06

8 / 20

“ Hillcrest was just what we needed. This house is very special. Lianne has created such a beautiful space. The layout of the house, the stunning interior, high end pieces, super comfortable furniture and great kitchen were just exceptional. Watching the stars in the dark sky reserve from the bathtub was particularly a standout. We didn’t have great weather but it didn’t matter. Two days to just unwind, relax and read was just what we needed. Thank you for creating such a special place, we will be back. ”

Kylie Hooper- 2026-01-27

9 / 20

“ Absolutely stunning place, very modern, clean and away from everything. The host communicated very well. Will definitely recommend and we'll be going back. ”

Ally Hobin- 2025-11-23

10 / 20

“ Amazing space, from the outdoor tub, the incredible style of décor and space, and most importantly, the cows that surround the property. We will definitely be back. ”

Francesca Ahearn- 2025-11-04

11 / 20

“ Great place to unwind and disconnect. ”

Tracey Weir- 2025-10-07

12 / 20

“ Rest, relax, unwind — this should be Hillcrest’s slogan because that’s exactly what you do. We would 100% recommend it to anyone. Take time out of your busy lives to hit pause. You won’t regret staying here. ”

Melissa Robinson- 2025-09-26

13 / 20

“ The most magical place we have ever been. The 360 view was incredible and not another human in sight. Gorgeous cabin, amazing facilities. I could not recommend more. ”

Evan McKenzie- 2025-08-11

14 / 20

“ We had a fantastic stay, would love to come back! ”

Katie McMillan- 2025-07-28

15 / 20

“ Amazing spot for our wedding anniversary. Loved the bath and there is everything you need to just chill out and fully relax. ”

Debbie Forgan- 2025-07-22

16 / 20

“ What a magic place to stay. So peaceful, clean and the host was very accommodating to our needs. Highly recommend Hillcrest if you're after a relaxing stay somewhere. ”

Jeffrey Brown- 2025-07-15

17 / 20

“ Beautiful little house in a beautiful location! Highly recommend! ”

Samantha McMurray- 2025-07-05

18 / 20

“ Loved it! It was such a beautiful place! Definitely returning. ”

Georgia Robertson- 2025-07-03

19 / 20

“ Such accommodating hosts, an incredible spot with all the facilities you need to make the most of the time spent on site. Highly recommend. ”

Ellen Flett- 2025-06-10

20 / 20

“ We had an amazing stay at Hillcrest. We absolutely loved the cabin and everything in it. Sorry to be leaving. You've ruined it for anywhere else we may stay as it is hard to beat. ”

Lorraine Barr- 2026-04-14

1 / 20

Scenic coastal landscape viewed through a golden tent opening, showing lush green hillside with forest line meeting turquoise ocean waters under clear blue sky

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