relaxing in the private fantail spa tub

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.

Saving the Night Sky

New Zealand’s Bid to Become the World’s First Dark Sky Nation

Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is proud to be part of New Zealand’s bid to become the world’s first dark sky nation.

This excellent article from BBC Travel explores New Zealand’s dark sky journey. Retreat owner Kaye Paardekooper said:

“Dark skies are great for wellbeing – that’s what we tell anyone who’ll listen. Research by the Royal Society [of New Zealand] on the effects of blue light, for example, shows too much blue light at the wrong time of day can disrupt our sleep, our immunity, our hormonal balance and even our mood.

 

We don’t have that light pollution here, which is why it needs preserving. Without the dominance of blue light, it’s much easier to return to your natural circadian rhythms. The kind of sleep you get here, particularly during the long nights of winter, honestly, is second to none.”

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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Our Accommodation  →

About

The Region  →

Contact

Our Team  →

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.