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
Absolutely special. Had a night here on my October travels and it was just spectacular. The service was wonderful (as was breakfast). The views are just incredible. Certainly not a single complaint to be made - all excellent.
Andrew, Australia
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
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
Wow! So nice after our hike! We booked this place when the other fancy lodging we booked pre-hike didn’t have space for us afterwards. Wow. Dunluce was a much more comfortable place to land! The room was lovely, spacious and comfortable, had beautiful views, and was spotlessly clean....
Shelley, Canada
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
What a hidden gem We spent 2 nights here with fantastic hospitality from Hannah. When we drove on B&B driveway at first, we felt like coming home. With surrounding landscape and spectacular lake and farm view, a lovely place like this must be a hidden gem. Very cozy room with comfortable...
Chia, Taiwan
I cannot say enough good things about my stay at this property. Hannah, the proprietor, is the epitome of charm and hospitality. Beautiful room with gorgeous views of the mountains and Lake Te Anau, and truly gourmet breakfast. The whole place exudes personalized warmth and charm. High, high...
Sammi, USA
Stayed for 5 nights package. Very happy with the entire experience, Hannah couldn't have been more accommodating and the room was spacious and comfortable. The little extra touches set Dunluce apart from the norm & made the whole experience very enjoyable.
Andrew Sweeny
I can't believe a B&B can be this good. This place is stylish yet cosy. Amazing bathroom. Nice view and wonderful hosts. Above all - superb hospitality. Thank you
Olivia & Albert, Hong Kong
Very cute home with nice cozy furniture that makes you fee at home. Fantastic view from the back lawn with its own terrace and flowers. Breakfast was delicious and Hannah very welcoming and helpful regarding activities and restaurant choices. The stay was very enjoyable. Only wish we had...
Clara, France