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
The rooms are really lovely with Mountain View’s and nice sunrises. Hannah cooks a delicious breakfast and provides a very personal experience. Everything is done well- from the natural shampoos organic teas scented candles and interesting books. The rooms are warm and tastefully...
Rebecca Stirrup, New Zealand
Fabulous overnight stay. We stayed here before going out on Doubtful Sound. What a beautiful place and fantastic host. We couldn’t have been more comfortable with a delightful room, fabulous views and warm hospitality. A delicious home cooked breakfast was made for us and so much thought...
Triathlete Traveller, UK
Very comfortable and friendly. We stayed here just after Christmas and enjoyed the beautiful quiet location. It is just enough away from the main drag to offer a very comfortable stay and yet not too far away, so its easy to zip in for a meal. The people are friendly, the bed luxurious, and the...
Jazz, 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
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
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
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
If you want to stay in a boutique B & B give this one a try. The whole place is immaculate throughout. Rooms are very exquisite and have the most amazing view of the mountains and water. Hannah is a lovely host and makes lovely cakes and an excellent breakfast.
Julie McMulkin, New Zealand
Welcoming, peaceful, views - everything we needed done exceptionally well. Hannah was a great hostess and put a lot of time and effort into making every guests stay special. There was a dining room and patio that guests could use, with tea/coffee making facilities, a fridge and various free...
Caroline, UK
We were thoroughly spoilt by our warm and engaging host, Hannah, who took the time to sit down, have a cup of coffee and chat with us about life and experiences. Great location with views across lake Te Anau and within a lovely 15 min stroll distance along the picturesque lake foreshore to the...
Anne and Bruce, Australia