This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Blenheim.
Blenheim, a small agricultural town in New Zealand, is well known as the wine-growing region of Marlborough. Hostels in Blenheim tend to cater to backpackers looking to pick grapes or work in the vineyards nearby; options range from camping to backpacker dorms with attached bars serving great beer selections. Options for hostels in Blenheim are pretty basic overall and attract people who are in the area to work or who are stopping through to do some wine tasting, there are a few options in the town center and a few a little further out.
Blenheim is an easy town to reach from the north or the south by ferry, bus, train, or a combination. From the North Island just catch a ferry from Wellington to Picton and a short bus from Picton to Blenheim. From the south, you can take a bus or train from any direction and end up in Blenheim.
The town is small and not too exciting at first, but if you linger awhile to work and take in the culture you will find a some friendly cafes, amazing wine, beautiful vistas, and nice walks nearby. The farmer's market on Sunday mornings is a great place to pick up fresh local kiwis, plums, and meat pies; Ritual Coffee in the city center may truly become your ritual for an afternoon coffee and cake -- their iced coffee is amazing as well as their range of menu items (including gluten-free and vegan options). If you love pies, definitely head to The Burley in the morning for amazing gourmet pies and coffee, they even have a tasty vegetarian one if you don't eat meat.
If you want a little adventure and a stunning view of Blenheim and Cloudy Bay, take a hike in the Wither Hills Farm park right before sunset. The surrounding mountains are beautiful in the evening and the sunsets can be incredible. There are also some nice beaches to the north; White's Bay is a favorite. There are also lots of amazing wineries in the area, mostly specializing in Sauvignon Blanc and a few that are also very dedicated to Biodynamic and Organic winemaking. There are a few wineries near the city, but most are fifteen to twenty minutes' drive or bus ride away in nearby Renwick. After awhile, the sleepy agricultural town of Blenheim might become a friendly little spot where you enjoy spending sunny days and beautiful sunsets.
Written by local enthusiast for Blenheim hostels
Amanda Haehl