Hotels in Whataroa

Whispers of Whataroa: A Journey Through Glaciers, Lakes, and Majestic Mountains

Nestled on New Zealand’s breathtaking West Coast, the charming small town of Whataroa is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts. Surrounded by majestic mountains, lush national parks, and stunning glaciers, it offers unforgettable outdoor experiences. Explore the nearby Franz Josef Glacier, wander through the tranquil Waitangitaona Wetland, and bask in the serenity of sparkling lakes like Lake Tekapo. Ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat, Whataroa boasts cozy holiday homes and a welcoming community, making it the perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for adventure seekers and relaxation lovers alike. Discover the magic of Whataroa, where nature takes center stage. For the best hotel rates in Whataroa, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Whataroa

Some of the best places to stay in Whataroa are Franz Josef Glacier, Mount Cook and Fox Glacier. Whataroa, West Coast, New Zealand, is a gateway to stunning natural wonders. Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier offer breathtaking views and adventure activities, while Mount Cook boasts majestic peaks and scenic trails. Accommodations in these areas typically feature comfortable beds, local amenities, and breakfast options. For first-time visitors, Franz Josef Glacier is ideal, as it provides easy access to glacier tours and stunning landscapes. Overall, there is a variety of hotels and motels catering to different budgets in the region. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Whataroa:

1. Franz Josef GlacierOpens in a new window: Franz Josef Glacier offers breathtaking natural scenery and a variety of outdoor activities, making it a must-visit destination for adventure seekers. With attractions like the stunning glacier itself, the relaxing Glacier Hot Pools, and the unique Waiho Hot Tubs, visitors can enjoy both adventure and relaxation. In this area, you can find hotels such as Te Waonui Forest RetreatOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel that provides adventure sports and recreation activities onsite or nearby, perfect for thrill-seekers. Another option is Aspen Court Motel Franz JosefOpens in a new window, a family-friendly 5-star motel that offers a range of outdoor sports such as kayaking and hiking, along with amenities for children. For a slightly different experience, Westwood LodgeOpens in a new window features a lodge-style accommodation focused on luxury and adventure.
2. Mount CookOpens in a new window: Mount Cook is a breathtaking destination known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. With highlights like the Mount Cook National Park and Aoraki / Mount Cook Visitor Center, it's ideal for nature lovers and families. The area boasts a selection of hotels, including The Hermitage Hotel Mount CookOpens in a new window, a luxurious 4.5-star hotel that offers upscale amenities. For those seeking adventure, Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine LodgeOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star guesthouse that provides various outdoor activities such as mountain biking and hiking. Lastly, Glentanner Park CentreOpens in a new window, a lodge approximately 22 miles away, combines luxury with natural experiences, featuring hiking and kayaking opportunities.
3. Fox GlacierOpens in a new window: Fox Glacier is renowned for its stunning landscapes, eco-friendly attractions, and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore beautiful sites like Lake Matheson and the enchanting Fox Glacier Glow Worm Forest. Among the hotel options, Distinction Fox Glacier Te Weheka Boutique HotelOpens in a new window stands out as a luxurious 4.5-star lodge, offering an upscale experience. For a more casual stay, Fox Glacier LodgeOpens in a new window is a comfortable guesthouse with diverse outdoor recreational activities nearby, while Lake Matheson MotelOpens in a new window is a well-equipped motel that offers dining options and entertainment amenities for a cozy stay.

What to do in Whataroa

Spend three days in Whataroa to immerse yourself in stunning landscapes of mountains, lakes, and lush forests. Enjoy hiking trails, explore recreational areas, and unwind at local spas. Engage in outdoor activities like boating and nature tours, making it a perfect getaway for adventure and relaxation seekers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Whataroa:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at Lake Wahapo, a stunning alpine lake that offers serene views and a perfect spot for photography. After soaking in the tranquility of the lake, make your way to Wahapako, where you can explore the surrounding natural beauty. Finally, conclude your day with a visit to the Andris Apse Wilderness Gallery, which showcases breathtaking landscape photography that captures the essence of New Zealand's wilderness.
• Day 2: Your day begins with a trip to the impressive Franz Josef Glacier, where you can embark on a guided tour to witness the stunning ice formations. After lunch, visit the St James Anglican Church, a charming historic site that offers a glimpse into the local culture and architecture. To wrap up the day, take a short hike to Sentinel Rock, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
• Day 3: Start your day with relaxation at the Glacier Hot Pools, where you can unwind in the natural thermal pools surrounded by lush rainforest. Next, visit Our Lady of the Alps, a beautiful church that provides stunning views of the mountains. Finally, venture to Mount Cook National Park, where you can enjoy breathtaking scenery, hike scenic trails, and immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of New Zealand's highest peak.

5 tips to find a great Whataroa hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Whataroa is during May, June, and August, when hotel rates are more affordable. To truly appreciate the area's main attractions, it's recommended to stay for at least 1-2 days. Notable sights in Whataroa include scenic lakes, stunning glaciers, and beautiful national parks, offering great value for money for those on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Whataroa, consider checking out Hotels.com. By navigating to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, you could find excellent rates on hotels with good availability as your travel date approaches. To keep yourself informed about flash sales and special promotions, you might enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, helping you maximize your chances of securing a great deal. With their price guarantee, you can book with confidence, knowing you’re getting the best possible rate.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. Thus, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Whataroa.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, think about your location. Staying near major attractions or city centers can be convenient, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Whataroa and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

Best time to go to Whataroa

Whataroa experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 25.0°F (-3.9°C), while February is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 46.2°F (7.9°C). May tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Whataroa are January, February, and December, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by moderate to frequent rainfall. In contrast, June to August are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by moderate to frequent rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.