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
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
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
First class B&B We thought we were turning up to some random B&B, but this place is superb. It’s immaculately clean throughout and the room was luxurious. Best of all though were the views, which take in the lake and mountains. Just lie in bed and take it all in! Breakfast was...
John, UK
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
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
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
Thank you for a great stay in your exceptionally well thought out house and for the helpful advice,warm hospitality, good conversation and wonderful homemade biscuits.
Merrill & Richard, Australia
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
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
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