Winter in Fiordland
Winter in Fiordland – Goodbye Sandfly
Yes. Its cold, the days are shorter and not everything is open. Did I mention there’s less Sandlfies?
For me, it’s the light. I love how it dances and filters through the mist in the most ethereal way and at the end of the days illuminates the sharp snow-capped mountains. On days like this, you’ll also have the perfect combination of dark, clear skies for star gazing. Did you know Fiordland is in the process of becoming an accredited dark sky park?
Hands down, the most beautiful I have ever experienced Milford Sound is in the Winter, ask any local and I am sure they’ll agree. If you’re willing to wrap up warm and get a little out of your comfort zone visiting Fiordland will be a unique experience for you.
The Milford road is stunning, a journey in itself and you can still get out and explore some of the forest tracks along the way. Expect amazing waterfalls, frosty vistas and mist rising from the earth with the sun. It is a great time to put your trust into one of our local tour operators and take the stress out of driving. Other locals and myself do the same – and its always relaxing just looking out the window a great little educational refresh of the area. We all enjoy a little snow at the tunnel too.
If you like a little adventure, the calm winters days can lend itself nicely to kayaking in the Sounds.Doubtful Sound is another great day option and offer overnight excursions. Our most two popular Te Anau outings that are well worth getting on board with are the Glow Worm Caves and our guests’ favourite – The Faith in Fiordland Sail Boat (honestly they’re just so nice onboard!)
Te Anau comes to a slower pace in the winter, and it is a great time to connect with locals. We can’t escape its winter here in Fiordland, its warm and cosy at Dunluce, and with a little more time on our hands it’s still equally inspiring to get out and about – my go to short walks are any of the access points along the Kepler where is sheltered or the Lake to lake cycle trail down to Manapouri. I often find myself wandering down and around the lake taking photographs, and I love the calm days when the waters like glass.
For the evenings, the best little winter go to is the Black Dog Bar with its open fires, hunker down in the luxe interiors and a mulled wine. Adjoined is the Fiordland Cinema – here they play 30-minute local films showcasing Fiordland and a blockbuster in the evening. Think comfy seats, intermission, cheesecake, and coffee – or take a peek at their cocktail list.
We all know you cannot beat a longs summers day, although sometimes we need to meet nature on her terms and embrace the storms of tawhirimatea that wash her clean of our footprints. It is a privilege to be able to visit these wild and remote corners of New Zealand and for the most part Fiordland will offer you both the brooding drama and the sounds of silence.
Your Host,
Hannah
What our other guests have said
Thank you both so much for a beautiful and comfortable stay. Your house is beautiful ,the gardens impeccable and the food delicious.We really enjoyed ourselves. Thanks for the new game of "Bananagrams". Good luck finishing the shed !
Franscesca & Scott, USA
This small B&B was the perfect place to stay: warm host, private rooms, gorgeous modern home, postcard view, delicious snacks and the best breakfast spread. The host was so kind and generous; we just came off a big hike and she went above and beyond to help us wash our gear. This is by far...
Monica, USA
If you're needing accommodation while in Fiordland, this is the spot! Hannah is such a lovely host, who made us feel right at home. The rooms were immaculate, spacious and beautiful. The incredible lake views were a bonus! Would not hesitate to recommend.
Talia, New Zealand
Absolutely superb. Without doubt the nicest, bed and breakfast I have had the pleasure of staying in. Beautifully decorated throughout, never have I been made to feel so welcome. Hannah goes out of way to make your stay as pleasant as possible, I was literally in awe when I saw my...
Keith, UK
We both enjoyed staying at Dunluce, it's was a high end facility with lovely host to match :) Amazing breakfast. Beautiful furnished room, very comfortable house, delightful host who was so warm and friendly.
Jennifer, New Zealand
Such a fabulous place My husband and I were lucky enough to spend a couple of nights at Dunluce. It was so beautiful - Hannah was a fantastic host, our room was spotlessly clean with amazing view of the lake and mountains, breakfast was spot on! Wish we could have stayed longer.
Jo, UK
Thank you both for a fabulous 3 nights at your B&B. I love your special breakfasts with wonderful muffins each morning, but especially loved the feeling you created here - everyone feels at home! Thanks from the bottom of our heart for all the "extras" you added - great...
Carol and Hal, San Francisco CA
Delightful peaceful stay This is a charming B&B with amazing views, so peaceful. Spotlessly clean and Hannah is a wonderful hostess. Delicious Breakfast and lovely fruit muffins to come back to after along day at Doubtful Sound. She even did some washing for us, which was very kind. There...
Phillippa, UK
This was my third and longest visit to this delightful purpose built property on the outskirts of Te Anau. The previous hosts after a short period of ownership have moved to Christchurch and Hannah Gray has taken over the reins. For anyone reading the reviews in recent years I can say that...
Michelle, UK/ New Zealand
Quietly situated a 5-minute drive from the town with lake views from your terrace. The room has everything you need with no noise from adjoining rooms. The room got a bot hot during the day but cooled down OK in the evening. Very helpful and friendly host. Free cakes and drinks (including wine)...
A G