Wilderness Lodge Arthur's Pass

Located in Arthur’s Pass surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, Wilderness Lodge is a comfortable eco lodge with just twenty guest rooms. Owned by a family whose passion for conservation led them to reintroduce natural woodland and conserve the resident wildlife, its eco-credentials have won various awards. This is a real family business, with genuine Kiwi hospitality.

There are sixteen mountain view rooms in the main lodge, either on the ground or upper floors, each with a terrace or balcony and floor to ceiling glass doors allowing you to soak up the views whatever the weather. These rooms have a King size bed, or a Queen and a single, and several rooms interconnect, making this an ideal option for families. There’s a small lounge area and an ensuite bathroom with shower. Tucked into the trees are the four alpine lodge rooms, two on ground level and two above. These are more luxurious and cater to couples looking for a few additional home comforts and more space, including a bathroom with a Jacuzzi bathtub overlooking the forest, as well as a separate shower. The mountain views from these rooms are more obscured by trees, but the location is tranquil and the rooms are more modern.

While the lodge as a whole is not luxurious, it offers a simple, comfortable base for exploring the Arthur’s Pass area, whether you’re on your way to or from the West Coast or heading elsewhere in South Island. The décor is a little dated in places, but it’s a good value and good quality option in the area, and the staff genuinely go out of their way to take care of you during your stay.

Activities are varied, and include nature walks with passionate guides who can tell you about every bird, insect and plant you encounter, fabulous star gazing, hiking trails if you want to get out and explore independently, fly-fishing, and the chance to experience traditional high country farm life on the next door merino sheep station, Cora Lynn.