Room for Two

You know what struck me first about Room for Two? The name actually makes sense once you’re there – this isn’t some massive hotel trying to be everything to everyone. It’s genuinely designed for couples, and honestly, that focus shows in every little detail. The place sits on Champion Road in Richmond, which might not sound familiar if you’re not from around here, but it’s actually perfectly positioned. You’re close enough to Nelson city center (maybe 10 minutes by car) but far enough out that you won’t hear traffic at night.

The 9.4 rating isn’t inflated marketing nonsense either – I mean, you can feel it the moment you walk in. The rooms have this warm, intimate vibe that bigger hotels just can’t pull off, with windows that actually open (revolutionary concept, right?) and beds that don’t feel like they came from a bulk hotel supplier. What I really appreciated was the attention to sound – the walls are properly thick, so you’re not hearing your neighbors’ entire conversation or the ice machine down the hall. The staff seems to actually live in the area too, which makes a difference when you want restaurant recommendations or need to know if that walking track is worth the effort.

Richmond itself is one of those spots that locals love but tourists often miss – there’s proper cafes within walking distance, not just tourist traps, and if you’re into wine at all, you’re basically in the heart of some serious vineyard country. The hotel parking is straightforward (no hunting around narrow city streets), and check-in was refreshingly quick without the usual upselling routine. I stayed during what must have been shoulder season, so it was quiet without feeling empty. The only minor thing – and this is really reaching – is that the shower pressure could be a touch stronger, but honestly, after a day exploring the area, you probably won’t care. Four stars feels right for this place, maybe even conservative. It’s the kind of spot where you actually want to hang out in your room rather than just crash there, which says something about how they’ve thought through the whole experience.