Check out the hotels on our All-Gay Escapade that welcome the LGBTQ+ community
Despite being one of the smallest nations we visit, New Zealand has so much to offer we created back-to-back trips that focus on the North and South islands. This post dives into the accommodations on our Active South Island Expedition, including a night aboard a boat.
Muse Hotel, Christchurch
Immerse yourself in local art – and luxury
When it comes to first impressions, The Muse does not mess around. That’s why we’ve chosen this boutique property to welcome you to your South Island adventure. Rooms are equipped with premium amenities like an espresso machine, rainfall shower heads, and expressive local art.
Peppers Bluewater Resort, Tekapo
Crisp, modern rooms in a rustic lakeside setting
In the heart of Mackenzie Country, Peppers Bluewater Resort immerses you in ruggedly beautiful landscapes. It’s the perfect base to explore the natural wonders of Mount Cook and the Mackenzie region. Great views, great food, and great service all add up to a 4.5-star experience.
The Hermitage Hotel, Mount Cook Village
A decadent retreat on a rustic hillside
The journey from the highway to this hotel is considered one of the Top 10 Drives in all of New Zealand. What a fitting way to arrive at our beautiful stay in the heart of Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Area surrounds you with glaciers, terminal lakes, turbulent rivers and Australasia’s tallest peak. Once the sun sets? Explore millions of stars! The park was also voted the world’s largest International Dark Sky Reserve.
Edgewater Hotel, Lake Wanaka
Spacious lakeside rooms feel like home
Lake Wanaka provides us an opportunity to catch our breath mid-journey. Our guide will have a day off, and we are free to wallow in the property’s amenities. Along with pools and a sauna – natch – you can partake in tennis, rent a mountain bike, or hit up the 9-hole putting green.
Distinction Hotel & Villas, Lake Te Anau
New Zealand hospitality at its best
This New Zealand-owned chain serves up elegant ambience, colourful gardens and a superb location on Lake Te Anau in the Fiordland ranges. The restaurant is known for its South Island cuisine, while other hotel amenities include a spa, sauna, and outdoor swimming pool.
The Milford Mariner, Milford Sound
Enjoy a night on the ultimate waterbed
The best way to immerse yourself in the spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife of Milford Sound is by boat. That’s why we’ve arranged a night on the Milford Mariner. Enjoy private rooms, dinner and breakfast prepared by an onboard chef. You may even spot wildlife like seals, penguins, and dolphins.
Ramada Central, Queenstown
Rest easy at the chain’s flagship New Zealand property
In the heart of Queenstown, the Ramada overlooks Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables Mountain Range, and much of the Central Otago landscape. The boutique property is the perfect place to wind up our wild and active trip through one of the world’s most unique island nations.
Let us know if we’ve piqued your interest in checking out our Active South Island Expedition, or New Zealand’s North Island Cultural Adventure. If you’re aching to visit Australia, you can also pair this tour with our Summer Down Under trip featuring Sydney Mardi Gras.
