4 Best Hotels in Nelson, Upper South Island and the West Coast

Built for a sea captain, this restored 1880s Victorian villa pairs antiques with modern fabrics and conveniences, so each bedroom has an en suite bathroom with shower; the three luxury rooms also have a separate bathtub. You can settle in with coffee or a drink in by the wood-burning fireplace in the guest lounge, or on the sunny garden deck, or lose yourself in the woodland garden. The house is near the town center. Hosts Karel and David will attend to your every need, and give you some great ideas for exploring the region they love.

These spacious and stylish studio apartments have plenty of conveniences, including washer-dryers and very comfy leather lounger chairs. Outside is a heated pool and there's also handy off-street parking. Guests can charge meals at the lovely Tides Restaurant, at nearby Trailways Hotel, to their room.

This heavenly spot encapsulates what Nelson is all about, with a focus on eco-values in its B&B room, a studio unit in the main house, and a delightful studio cottage in the garden with its own water garden and turf roof. Throw in some lovely hospitality and intelligent conversation with host Paulina, a Tomatis sound therapist, and this is the perfect place to stop a few days and recharge.

This graceful villa has one of the best waterfront locations in town. The 1905 house features native rimu-wood floors, luxurious furnishings, local artwork, and historic maritime photographs. Pure wool rugs warm the floors while heavy feather duvets warm the beds. Hospitality here is legendary; breakfast is different every day, and evening drinks and snacks are served on the sweeping veranda. One of the owners also runs a RYA sailing school (Sail Nelson) and you are welcome to set sail with him.