Mount Cook, located in the Southern Alps of New Zealand, is a breathtaking destination that attracts nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts from around the world. With its snow-capped peaks, stunning glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes, it offers a truly spectacular experience for visitors.
If you’re planning a trip to Mount Cook, choosing the right place to stay is essential. Luckily, there are several accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, cozy lodges, or budget-friendly hostels, Mount Cook has something for everyone.
For those seeking luxury in the heart of nature, there are upscale hotels that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. These hotels often feature spacious rooms with modern amenities, gourmet dining options, and spa facilities to help you relax and unwind after a day of exploring.
If you prefer a more intimate experience, you can opt for cozy lodges nestled among the mountains. These lodges provide a peaceful and serene atmosphere, allowing you to truly connect with nature. Many lodges also offer guided hikes and other adventurous activities for those who want to make the most of their time in Mount Cook.
For travelers on a budget, there are affordable hostels and camping grounds available near Mount Cook. These options provide basic amenities and a friendly atmosphere, making them perfect for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts.
No matter where you choose to stay in Mount Cook, you’ll be surrounded by stunning natural beauty and have easy access to a wide range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re hiking through the Hooker Valley, exploring the Tasman Glacier, or stargazing under the clear night sky, Mount Cook promises an unforgettable experience for all.
Best Accommodation in Mount Cook New Zealand
Mount Cook National Park, located in the Southern Alps of New Zealand, is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park is known for its breathtaking scenery, including the iconic Mount Cook, the highest peak in New Zealand.
When planning your trip to Mount Cook, it’s important to find the best accommodation options that will enhance your experience and provide you with the comfort and convenience you need. Here are some of the top accommodation choices in Mount Cook:
Hermitage Hotel: The Hermitage Hotel is located in the heart of Mount Cook Village and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The hotel features a range of room types, from standard rooms to luxurious suites, and provides excellent amenities such as on-site restaurants, a bar, and a spa.
Aoraki Court Motel: The Aoraki Court Motel is a great option for those looking for a more budget-friendly accommodation option. The motel offers well-equipped studio units and is located just a short drive from Mount Cook Village. Guests can enjoy modern amenities, free Wi-Fi, and friendly service.
The Old Mountaineer’s Cafe: For a unique and charming accommodation experience, consider staying at The Old Mountaineer’s Cafe. This historic building offers basic but comfortable rooms and is located within walking distance of the village. Guests can enjoy a delicious meal at the on-site cafe and take in the stunning views of Mount Cook.
Aoraki Alpine Lodge: If you’re traveling with a group or family, the Aoraki Alpine Lodge is a great option. This lodge offers spacious self-contained apartments and is situated in a peaceful location with beautiful views. Guests can also enjoy access to a communal kitchen and lounge area.
The Hermit Hut: For a truly unique and secluded accommodation experience, consider staying at The Hermit Hut. This small and cozy hut is located in a remote area near Mount Cook and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Guests can enjoy a tranquil atmosphere and the opportunity to stargaze at night.
No matter which accommodation option you choose, staying in Mount Cook will provide you with a memorable experience surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of New Zealand’s Southern Alps.
Luxury Hotels
If you are looking for a luxurious stay in Mount Cook, New Zealand, you are in luck. The area offers several high-end hotels that provide exceptional services and amenities to make your stay unforgettable.
The Hermitage Hotel
One of the most iconic luxury hotels in Mount Cook is The Hermitage Hotel. Located at the base of the Southern Alps, this grand hotel offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the picturesque Hooker Valley. The Hermitage Hotel features elegantly furnished rooms, each equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, minibars, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can indulge in fine dining at the on-site restaurants, relax in the lounge area, or pamper themselves with a massage at the spa.
The Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge
Another luxurious option is The Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge. Nestled in the heart of Mount Cook Village, this lodge offers warm and inviting accommodations with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The rooms are tastefully decorated, providing a cozy atmosphere with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a continental or cooked breakfast at the lodge, and relax in the shared lounge area or on the outdoor patio. The Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge is perfect for those seeking a tranquil and luxury retreat.
Booking in Advance is Recommended
Due to the limited number of luxury hotels available in Mount Cook, it is highly recommended to book your stay in advance. These hotels are in high demand, especially during peak seasons, so securing your reservation early is advised. Whether you choose The Hermitage Hotel or The Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge, you can expect a truly luxurious experience in the heart of New Zealand’s stunning natural beauty.
Budget Hostels
If you’re looking for affordable accommodation in Mount Cook, there are several budget hostels to choose from. These hostels offer basic amenities and are a great option for travelers on a tight budget.
Mount Cook Backpacker Lodge
Located in the heart of Mount Cook Village, Mount Cook Backpacker Lodge is a popular choice for budget travelers. The hostel offers a range of dormitory-style rooms, as well as private rooms with shared bathrooms. The communal kitchen is fully equipped for self-catering, and there is a cozy lounge area with a fireplace where guests can relax and socialize. The hostel is also just a short walk from some of the best hiking trails in the area.
Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge
Another budget-friendly option is Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge. This hostel offers affordable dormitory-style accommodation with shared bathrooms. The hostel has a communal kitchen and dining area, as well as a spacious lounge with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a great place to meet other travelers and exchange stories. The hostel is located close to the village center and is a convenient base for exploring the national park.
Overall, there are plenty of budget hostels available in Mount Cook that offer affordable accommodation without compromising on comfort. These hostels provide a great opportunity to meet other travelers and make the most of your stay in this beautiful part of New Zealand.
Stunning Campgrounds
If you want to truly immerse yourself in the beauty of Mount Cook, staying at one of the campgrounds is a great option. With stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the possibility of sleeping under a blanket of stars, camping in Mount Cook offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
There are several campgrounds to choose from, each offering its own unique features and amenities. Here are some of the top campgrounds in the area:
- White Horse Hill Campground: Located near the starting point of several popular hiking trails, this campground is an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts. It offers basic facilities such as toilets, drinking water, and picnic tables. The campground is surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery.
- Glentanner Park Centre: Situated just a short drive away from the Mount Cook Village, this campground offers a range of accommodation options including powered sites for campervans and cabins. The park centre also features a restaurant, laundry facilities, and a gift shop.
- Mount Cook Campground: This campground is located within the Mount Cook Village, making it a convenient choice for those who want easy access to the village amenities. It offers powered sites for campervans as well as tent sites. The campground also has a communal kitchen, showers, and a small shop.
- Braemar Station Retreat and Campground: Situated on a working farm, this campground provides a peaceful and secluded environment. Campers can enjoy panoramic views of the Southern Alps and the Tasman Valley. The campground offers powered and non-powered campsites.
Whether you prefer a fully-equipped campground or a more rustic experience, Mount Cook has a range of options to suit every camper. Make sure to book your campground in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, as the campgrounds can fill up quickly.
Quaint Bed and Breakfasts
If you are looking for a charming and cozy place to stay in Mount Cook, New Zealand, consider booking a room at one of the region’s quaint bed and breakfasts. These accommodations offer a unique and personal experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the area while enjoying warm hospitality.
Cottage by the Lake
Located just a short distance from Mount Cook Village, Cottage by the Lake is a picturesque bed and breakfast tucked away in a peaceful setting. With stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a tranquil lake just steps away, this charming B&B offers a relaxing retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The cozy rooms at Cottage by the Lake are tastefully decorated and feature comfortable furnishings. Each room has its own private bathroom and is equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. Wake up each morning to a delicious homemade breakfast served in the dining area, where you can also enjoy panoramic views of the lake and mountains.
Alpine Retreat
If you prefer a more secluded and intimate setting, consider booking a room at Alpine Retreat. Nestled amidst beautiful gardens and surrounded by towering mountains, this bed and breakfast offers a peaceful and romantic getaway.
The rooms at Alpine Retreat are elegantly furnished and provide a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Each room has its own private balcony or patio, allowing you to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Start your day with a freshly prepared breakfast made from locally sourced ingredients, and spend the rest of your day exploring the nearby hiking trails or simply relaxing in the tranquil surroundings.
Bed and Breakfast | Location | Features | Price Range |
---|---|---|---|
Cottage by the Lake | Mount Cook Village | Stunning lake views, cozy rooms, homemade breakfast | $150 – $200 per night |
Alpine Retreat | Secluded mountain location | Private balconies, beautiful gardens, locally sourced breakfast | $200 – $250 per night |
Both Cottage by the Lake and Alpine Retreat offer a magical and unforgettable experience in the heart of Mount Cook. Whether you are planning a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat, these charming bed and breakfasts are sure to exceed your expectations.
Q&A
What are some good accommodation options in Mount Cook, New Zealand?
There are several good accommodation options in Mount Cook, New Zealand. Some popular ones include The Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki Court Motel, Mt Cook Lodge and Motels, and The Old Mountaineers’ Cafe. These places offer comfortable rooms and convenient access to the stunning natural beauty of the area.
Are there any budget-friendly places to stay in Mount Cook?
Yes, there are budget-friendly places to stay in Mount Cook. One option is to camp at the White Horse Hill Campground, which is located within Mount Cook National Park. There are also a few hostels in the nearby town of Twizel, such as the Tailor Made Backpackers. These options offer affordable accommodation for those on a budget.
Is it better to stay in Mount Cook village or in a nearby town?
It depends on your preferences. Staying in Mount Cook village will give you easy access to the hiking trails and attractions in the area, but the accommodation options there can be more limited and expensive. On the other hand, staying in a nearby town like Twizel or Tekapo will offer more choices in terms of accommodation and dining options, but you will have to drive a bit to reach Mount Cook. Consider your priorities and make a decision based on that.
What are some nearby attractions to consider when choosing where to stay in Mount Cook?
There are several nearby attractions to consider when choosing where to stay in Mount Cook. One of the most popular is Lake Tekapo, which is known for its stunning turquoise waters and the Church of the Good Shepherd. Another option is the town of Twizel, which offers various outdoor activities like fishing, cycling, and hiking. Both of these places are within a short drive from Mount Cook and offer additional opportunities for exploration and fun.