Accommodation Inspirations - Part 5 - Eliza's Manor

Generic hotels these days whilst being lovely and comfortable can on occasion be a little boring and I’m always on the lookout for a different type of overnight accommodation. Eliza’s Manor is an old-style villa situated on Bealey Avenue, one of Christchurch's most popular through fares. It has somehow remained standing despite everything thrown at it over the years. Dating back to 1861 the villa stands in a street otherwise littered with various standards of modern motel offerings. As you can imagine it stands out from the crowd. As you approach the frontage has been renovated and refitted to honour it’s past but also to create a modern fresh boutique style lodge. The entrance way is through a large heavy wooden door. Ahead of you in the lobby is a grand old wooden staircase with the small reception room to the right-hand side. To your left is the lounge bar. It all feels rather grand. Somewhere you could linger for a few days and truly relax in style. I had just the one night but was determined to enjoy every moment. I was escorted to my room by the friendly receptionist which happened to be tucked away on the ground floor. The room was labelled ‘The Butlers Quarters’ and was hidden behind a door indicating for the hotel toilets. You would never have a clue it was there to be honest.

What is lurking behind the Butlers Door?

I felt as though I was ducking into a cupboard at first until the door opened and revealed a gorgeously designed room, complete with a huge chandelier, some very grand looking furniture and a carpet that your feet simply sank into. Freshly baked goods from the kitchen were presented in a small bag for me. Another room tray was packed with New Zealand red wine, snacks of crisps and popcorn. In the small fridge was a free mini bar offering some white wine, water, beer and a delicious house made iced tea, which luckily was refilled for me whilst I was at dinner.

A tray of goodies to enjoy during your stay at Eliza’s Manor

The floor to ceiling window opened to a small seating area that led around the corner to the outdoor cocktail garden. Unfortunately, the weather wasn’t great on my visit, so I didn’t get to enjoy this feature of the hotel.

The room decoration all celebrates the old villa ambience.

After an afternoon of relaxing in my room and enjoying the lovely gifts left for me, I ventured out into the hotel reception area and into the small dining area that was situated just behind the lounge bar. A three-course meal was included in my stay package which is something I would recommend opting for as the food itself was delicious. There were hardly any other diners though so you must be comfortable in your own company. I rolled back to my room to discover that my bed had been downturned and the curtains drawn against the dark night. My ice-tea had been refilled and a macron had been left by my bedside as a late evening treat. Small touches that add to the delight of the stay.

Luxurious furnishings and decorations all add to the grand feel at Eliza’s

Breakfast the following morning was also included and again excellent. A top way to start the day as I reluctantly dragged myself back to reality and the left the boutique opulence behind.