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
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
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
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
My husband and I stayed at Dunluce for two, non consecutive nights - went on an overnight cruise of the Doubtful Sound in between - and we cannot wait to come back. The property is gorgeous and our room was decorated with an appealing NZ flair, as is the entire b&b... and super clean! Each...
Trisha Rozas, New Zealand / US
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
Superb B&B in an excellent location. We stayed 2 nights in Hannah's beautiful home in Feb 2020. It really was the best accommodation we had during our 5 week visit of NZ, which included 5 * hotels. Hannah was a most hospitable host and catered for our every need. She had thought of...
Steve, UK
Lovely lovely stay!! Dunluce is a very comfortable and well appointed purpose build B&B a 3 minute drive from the centre of Te Anau. It offers the best of both worlds; easy if you want the bustle of a tourist town and perfect for the peace and quiet of a lake view retreat. Hannah, the...
Lil, 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
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
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