Fiordland Lodge

We loved our two-night stay at the lodge and were sad to leave our stunning perch overlooking the lake and mountains and starry sky. With just 12 guest room, this property felt like a small luxury lodge for family gatherings (we arrived after four days at the larger and grander Blanket Bay Lodge). Service was relaxed and personalized, with most guests coming or going on some mountain adventure. Rooms were comfortable with lovely patios and nice amenities. Manager Andy was chill and accommodating (even arranging complimentary laundry service), and we loved getting to know outdoorsy waitstaff duo Jazzy and Jimmy. They recommended several hikes between the lodge and Milford Sound. We ended up leaving the hotel at 8 am in our own vehicle, getting to Milford at about 10, taking a 10:45 cruise before the Queenstown tour arrivals, then hiking to beautiful Lake Marian in the afternoon. It would have worked well to hike first and take the 2:45 cruise, but I think we would have had a more crowded experience in the fjord. Come prepared to swim in the refreshing, crystal clear water of Lake Marian after a short but fairly steep and rocky hike up!

3 things we loved: 1. staff- every single one is thoughtful, kind, warm, welcoming. 2. breathtaking views. 3. Hot tubs- private, surrounded by native grasses, overlooking the lake, easily reserved. 2 things that made us thoughtful: 1. Food is average. Feels and tastes like it’s been prepared in advance. 2. Rooms in main lodge are not well sound proofed and seemed like we were sharing a room with our neighbors.

It’s all about the view. The suite we had was on the corner of the building and very spacious, with great storage for clothing. I’m a complete “unpacker” and there is nothing more welcome than ample space and coat hangers. The Fiordland Lodge had both. Staff was pleasant and very responsive to special accommodations. We had to vacate for one evening for an overnight on the Milford sound. Staff picked up and stored our baggage that was waiting for us in the when we returned. Ice buckets were always refreshed. The heated mirror and floor in the bathroom was wonderful. Plush towels and robes. And ample countertop space. The food was good. Two choices for dinner’s entree, main and dessert. Breakfasts are homey and fresh. One itch was the formula of having guests come down to the common room for “canapés” and drinks at 6pm and in so doing, order one’s meal. Forced interaction with other guests. Not something we enjoy doing. Enjoy a hot tub if you visit… they are immaculate, private and offer an indescribable view, especially at sundown. With their close proximity to Te r’s opportunity to go into this small town for a lunch or shopping. Two very fine NZ “souvenir” shops—- more like boutiques offering finely made jewelry, clothing and pottery.

Fantastic Hotel We stayed for 3 nights whilst in Te Anau. Everything was wonderful. The room, the staff, the food (breakfast and dinner)……the location, the wine. Couldn’t ask for more. The staff were so helpful. Early coffees when we had an early start for Milford Sound. Stored our bags while we had an overnight on Doubtful Sound. It really was fabulous.

We stayed at Fiordland Lodge for 2 nights in December as part of a wedding. The lodge is situated just 5 minutes out of Te Anau, and is tucked away into the countryside off the beaten track. You could drive by a thousand times and not realise it was there... as you take a right and drive to the path towards to lodge, it reveals itself in all it's glory. You enter through big wooden doors and are greeted immediately and warmly. The main hall is absolutely stunning, looking out over rolling green and towards an amazing mountain range. The lodge is full of wood and every detail is considered. The rooms are incredible, heated bathroom floors, real animal rugs (we think seal...?) And just everything though about. Even a cafieterre for your coffee in bed in the AM...our room held the same view as the main hall, with a balcony running across 4 rooms in the stretch. Almost surreal... Food was outstanding. A surf and turf style crayfish and venison medley in the first evening for all. Breakfast was to order and hosted a selection of kiwi classics (mince on toast) and staples such as a cracking eggs benedict and full english choices. Just quality ingredients carefully considered and cooked really really well. Warm, homely but fine too. Drinks was mainly coffee - a cracking flat white in the morning. Espresso was bang on, not over or underextracted, and milk was ideally steamed, with a bit of latte art too. Exactly what you'd expect to find in a speciality roasters. I didn't ask for any cocktails as I don't believe the bar was set up for volume cocktail work, but great selection of beers, whisky and a brilliant wine list. All in, an amazing stay and somewhere we will never forget! Andy, James and all the staff really go above and beyond to make life special when you are there.

If you are looking for a special place to stay whilst visiting Te Anau or Milford Sound which offers luxury without stuffiness then this is the place for you. The rooms are beautiful with fabulous views across the lake. You are encouraged and welcomed to use the communal areas, for pre dinner drinks or just to sit and admire the views. James and his staff are friendly and nothing is too much trouble. The breakfasts are hearty and the dinners delicious.