In the foothills of the Southern Alps.

Although just an hour and a half drive from Christchurch, the South Island's largest city, the Wilderness Lodge Arthur's Pass is a world away from the bright lights - the only things lighting the night sky in this remote spot are millions of stars.

The lodge sits above the Waimakariri River valley,  letting you enjoy the rugged beauty of the Southern Alps while staying in very comfortable rooms and suites. Join in ecology walks on this 3,000 hectare nature reserve, take part in farm activities like mustering and shearing or do some of the other wilderness activities further afield. Nearby lakes provide opportunities for kayaking, canoeing and fly fishing. There are wild flower walks, bush, glacier and mountain walks, bird-watching, mountain biking and photography trips and the chance to go mountaineering or climbing in the nearby Arthur's Pass National Park. And in winter there is skiing on five local ski fields.

The lodge has been complimented on its philosophy in combining nature protection with sustainable tourism and the tariff includes 1 - 2 hours a day of guided outdoor activities. The Maori name for this place is "Te Ko Awa a Aniwaniwa - Valley of the Mother of the Rainbows." It's easy to see why. The  Wilderness Lodge Arthur's Pass is a sister property to the Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki on the West Coast. Twin lodge itineraries featuring the Lake Moeraki and Arthur's Pass Wilderness Lodges can be arranged, ensuring you get to experience both of these exceptional places.

The Accommodation

• there are 4 luxurious Alpine View Lodge suites with balconies opening to the forest and mountain views

• each suite has a super-king bed, gas fire and comfortable seating area
  private bathrooms have spa baths with views across the valley

• there are also 20 Mountain View rooms. These have either a king or queen bed and a single bed, all with private bathrooms. They open to long views across the mountains and the Waimakariri River valley

• the Mountain View rooms are suitable for families and some have interconnecting doors.

• the more luxurious Alpine Lodge suites are suitable for 2 adults only

The Main Lodge

• the main lodge area is a large space with big log fire and expansive views over the surrounding mountains and national park

• the dining room opens off this area with larger shared tables and several smaller ones for more intimate dining

• there is a good library of nature and conservation books for guest reading

• local cuisine is highlighted with fresh lamb off the farm and other meats, fish and produce sourced as locally as possible

• dinner is a set menu meal with two options, which change daily (vegetarian and other dietary requirements catered for as well)

• transfers are available from Arthur’s Pass Railway Station to the lodge