Roman

New Zealand

Italy

Switzerland

Iceland

Chile

Indonesia

France

Mexico

Canada

Ukraine

Spain

United States

Finland

Argentina

Denmark

Greece

Netherlands

Australia

Estonia

Sri Lanka

Poland

Türkiye

Slovenia

Hungary

Austria

Georgia

Dominican Republic

Slovakia

Czechia (Czech Republic)

United Arab Emirates

Egypt

Moldova

Holy See (Vatican)

Russia

Portugal

I’d go to Aoraki Dark Skies Reserve for mountain lake views.

New Zealand is a land of breathtaking natural beauty and boundless adventure. By sheer variety of landscapes and types of activities, it is the most diverse destination on the planet.

The Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve is the largest dark sky reserve in the world. It covers an area of 1,660 square miles and is home to some of the clearest and darkest skies in the world, making it an ideal location for stargazing and astrophotography.

The reserve is located near Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, which provides a stunning backdrop for nighttime sky viewing. With little light pollution in the area, the Milky Way and other galaxies are easily visible to the naked eye.

In addition, the reserve is home to a number of astronomical observatories, including the Mount John Observatory, which provides guided stargazing tours and educational programs. We also recommend stargazing tours operated by the Hermitage Hotel. You can find both experiences in the links section above.

Stargazing tour

Aoraki Dark Skies Reserve

Explore all must-sees and venture off the beaten path on a spectacular road trip.

New Zealand Adventure

Fall in love with New Zealand by visiting its highlights on a fast-paced trip.

New Zealand Highlights

New Zealand's highest peak dominates the skyline of a national park filled with glaciers, alpine lakes, and sky-scraping peaks, a dream for mountaineers and hikers alike.

Aoraki (Mt Cook)

Aoraki Court Motel is a modern motel situated in the heart of the picturesque Mount Cook village. It offers a range of rooms and self-contained apartments, perfect for couples, families, and groups of friends. All the units are well-equipped, including modern amenities and kitchenettes.

You can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers from the motel's outdoor area, which features a picnic area and a children's playground. There is also a BBQ area where you can cook up a storm while taking in the majestic scenery.

Aoraki Court Motel is a perfect base for exploring the stunning Mount Cook National Park, which is home to New Zealand's highest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook. The friendly staff at Aoraki Court Motel can provide information and recommendations for activities and dining options in the area.

Aoraki Court Motel

Matuka Lodge is a luxurious accommodation that offers panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains and the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki.

The lodge features five beautifully appointed suites, each with their own unique decor and modern amenities. The suites offer a perfect blend of comfort and luxury, and each one has its own private balcony or courtyard with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Matuka Lodge provides a range of facilities, including a cozy lounge with an open fireplace, a library, and a hot tub with views of the mountains. The lodge's restaurant offers a unique culinary experience, serving locally sourced ingredients and wines from the nearby vineyards.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the lodge's close proximity to the nearby hiking and biking trails, fishing spots, and ski fields. With its luxurious accommodations, breathtaking views, and exceptional service, Matuka Lodge is an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil and unforgettable New Zealand experience.

Matuka Lodge

Skyrim Lodge is a set of accommodations located in the heart of the Legendary Mackenzie high country where alpine mountains, awe-inspiring glaciers, vivid turquoise lakes, golden grasslands and dazzling starry skies with the milky way galaxy create a picturesque paradise.

Lake Tekapo, a part of the international night sky reserve, boasts stunning landscapes where millions of stars seem to appear right before your eyes. The surrounding area offers a vast array of wildlife, snowy mountains and teal blue waters, making it the perfect place to explore and enjoy.

The lodge prides itslelf in offering clean, quality, comfortable, quiet, and affordable accommodation for all guests, with a variety of room, suite and apartment options available to suit solo, couples, families, and group travelers.

Lodge's warm, friendly, and informative staff are dedicated to making your stay enjoyable and memorable, ensuring that your visit to the Mackenzie high country is truly unforgettable.

Skyrim Lodge

SkyScape is a unique and innovative bed & breakfast situated in the rural town of Twizel. It offers luxury and comfort in a remote, picturesque setting.

The cabins are fully self-contained and offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The floor-to-ceiling windows provide an unparalleled view of the starry night sky, perfect for stargazing. Each cabin also features a king-size bed, a kitchenette, and a private bathroom.

You can enjoy a range of outdoor activities in the area. After a day of adventure in the nearby Mount Cook National Park, you can relax in the outdoor bathtub and soak in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

SkyScape is an ideal accommodation option for couples or solo travelers seeking a unique and peaceful retreat in a beautiful and remote location.

SkyScape

The Hermitage is a world-renowned resort in the heart of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. It offers an exceptional base for those wanting to explore the natural beauty of New Zealand. The property boasts stunning views of the Southern Alps and the Tasman Glacier, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Hermitage offers a range of accommodation options, including hotel rooms and chalets, to suit any traveler's needs. All rooms are spacious and comfortable, featuring modern amenities. You can also enjoy a range of on-site facilities, including restaurants, a bar, a gift shop, and a spa and sauna.

The resort's location at the foot of Mount Cook provides easy access to a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and glacier tours. The on-site Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre also offers a range of interactive exhibits and displays, showcasing the history and beauty of the surrounding area.

Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, The Hermitage is a perfect destination.

The Hermitage