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We have a podcast! Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is pleased to present our four-part podcast. It’s the story of where we began, and how our Retreat has grown and evolved. Available on all major podcast listening apps, or stream it directly from our website.

Lake Pukaki Among World’s Clearest Waters

According to Condé Nast Traveler

Our very own Lake Pukaki has been named among the world’s clearest waters by Condé Nast Traveler:

Lake Pukaki, an alpine lake in the South Island, was named the third clearest by Condé Nast Traveler, coming in behind the rivers in Bonito, Brazil, and the Italian seawaters around the island of Lampedusa in Italy.

 

The lake “is such an unearthly shade of blue that it looks like a scene out of a movie,” wrote Condé Nast, adding that it did in fact feature as the backdrop in the Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit trilogies.

 

“That frosty, Gatorade-level blue is no special effect: the lake derives its hue from glacial flour – a fine silt of pulverised rock suspended in the water that reflects blue light and give the lake its luminous appearance.”

Read the full article here.

Absolutely spectacular – would recommend to anyone! What a spectacular experience I had here. I booked a couple of nights R&R just for myself to chill out…..and Ooooh!……what a chill-out I had! I was looked after beautifully by all the wonderful lovely staff, while also enjoying the beautiful privacy and tranquility of the luxury villa (Villa Matariki). I had the most incredibly delicious and nutritious (and plenty of it!) food delivered to my door by the chefs themselves (the lamb was exquisite!). Tom and Rafa are both exceptional chefs and also provide lovely service. They catered for my dairy-free diet better than anywhere I have been before including to-die-for chocolatey treats which I arrived back to after a cycle through part of the stunning Alps 2 Ocean trail. And they bake bread daily for the morning too!

EM2020

Planning Your Stay

Explore our luxury accommodation and other offerings, learn more about the Aoraki Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Mackenzie region of New Zealand, or contact us with any questions – we’re always happy to help.

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The Region  →

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Upcoming Events at the Retreat

Upcoming Events at the Retreat

We are continually innovating to bring you fresh, exciting experiences with our special events at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat. Purchase your tickets or reserve your spot on our website, and feel free to contact us with any questions.