Best places to stay in Aoraki/Mt Cook Alpine Village - that don't involve camping

Let’s face it there isn’t a lot of choice in this resort style village which is basically a base for exploring the stunning national park area. Whilst everyone visits here for the epic alpine scenery and to get out into the great outdoors, it’s still important to have a comfortable place to stay for the night, right? And somewhere good to eat or indeed cook for oneself?

Now for the nitty gritty, the accommodation here isn’t cheap. It’s a lot more expensive than what you would pay down the road in Twizel. But then when I say down the road, it’s all relative as Twizel is a considerable drive down a lengthy highway. It’s over 50km from Mt Cook Village to the main turn off. That’s a pretty long way especially in winter time when snow often blankets the edges of the highway. This journey though is phenomenal and anyone would be a fool to miss it – indeed it’s the only possible way to arrive at the village except by helicopter. I will discuss this in a separate blog coming shortly…….

Whilst I digress somewhat from the accommodation offerings what I am trying to say is that staying in Mt Cook Village is probably a really good idea if you want to see this area properly rather then cram it all in. And hey in all honesty who doesn’t want to see the sun set on the towering peaks of Aoraki?

So, to that accommodation, The Hermitage is the largest and most popular option in town. It’s the first thing you notice on arrival, well apart from those mountains of course. It’s positioned to offer guests a colossal view from all its floor to ceiling windows. It’s worth staying here as it’s home to numerous activities and eatery options. There is a planetarium, a 3D theatre and even a museum dedicated to Sir Edmund Hillary, the first man confirmed to have climbed Everest.

Top Tip: when staying at The Hermitage it’s worth paying extra for an alpine view room – talk about picture perfect.

My second recommendation in town is Aoraki Mt Cook Alpine Lodge. Positioned close to The Hermitage this place is family run, super-efficient and offers that same incredible view from most of the rooms as The Hermitage. They even have a guest lounge complete with log burner fire and fully equipped kitchen to cook your own meals. Rooms here are a mix of studios, family rooms and even bunks.

My final selection is the Aoraki Court Motel which is a little bit more luxurious than most of the accommodation options. Although you do tend to pay for it too – in peak season this place can charge some eye watering rates. However, if you can find a deal, snap it up as it really is a top spot to stay at – the rooms are large, extremely comfortable and have those required exceptional views. It’s also close-by to a pleasant bush walk and other facilities in the resort.

Coming soon the best day walks in Aoraki and Tekapo