Top reasons to visit Te Anau Downs
- Stunning Natural Scenery: Te Anau Downs boasts breathtaking landscapes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, and fishing excursions in the beautiful surroundings.
- Family-Friendly Activities: The area offers a variety of experiences suitable for families, from picnics to swimming spots.
- Charming Accommodation: Relax in delightful bed and breakfasts and lodges that cater to all needs.
- Access to Fiordland National Park: Explore the nearby park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for an unforgettable experience.
Find great hotels near Te Anau Downs
Te Anau Downs offers a charming selection of accommodation options, including delightful bed and breakfasts and inviting lodges. Ideal for adventurers and nature enthusiasts, these hotels provide a pet-friendly atmosphere and unique golf-themed experiences. Whether you seek a peaceful retreat or a base for exploring the stunning Fiordland National Park, you'll find the perfect stay in this picturesque locale.
- Fiordland Great Views Holiday Park: This 4.5-star holiday park offers an idyllic getaway with stunning views of the Fiordland region. Located 24.1km from Te Anau Downs, it provides a range of dining options, including continental breakfast selections. Guests can partake in various sports and recreational activities, such as fishing and hiking, ensuring an adventurous stay. The proximity to the nearby river enhances the overall experience, making it an excellent choice for nature lovers seeking a combination of comfort and outdoor adventure.
- Te Anau Lodge: Rated 4 stars with a remarkable guest rating of 9.6 out of 10, Te Anau Lodge is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. Situated 25.7km from Te Anau Downs, this bed and breakfast offers a unique golf-themed experience. Guests can indulge in a variety of adventure sports including mountain climbing and swimming. The lodge provides an inviting atmosphere, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the stunning landscape while enjoying high-quality amenities and an adventurous spirit.
- Shakespeare House: With a 3-star rating and a commendable guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, Shakespeare House is an appealing choice for travellers seeking adventure. Located 25.7km from Te Anau Downs, this bed and breakfast features a mix of outdoor activities such as cave exploring, horse riding, and hiking. The property offers a welcoming environment for those eager to explore the natural beauty of the region while enjoying comfortable accommodation and personalised service.
Where to stay near Te Anau Downs
Te Anau Downs offers a tranquil getaway perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking romance. Just a short drive from Te Anau, this suburb is surrounded by stunning spots that showcase the natural beauty of Southland. Experience the friendly atmosphere and embark on exciting excursions, perfect for families and adventurers alike. Explore the scenic landscapes and indulge in the warm hospitality of the locals, making your visit truly memorable.
- Te Anau: Nestled 25.7km from Te Anau Downs, Te Anau is a vibrant suburb known for its stunning natural beauty. The area sees a steady stream of visitors year-round, peaking in the summer months of December to February. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, Te Anau offers a plethora of activities such as skiing, hiking, and scenic explorations. The picturesque landscapes include shimmering lakes, lush water features, and majestic mountains, making it a romantic getaway for couples. Local landmarks provide ample opportunities for photography and adventure, ensuring a memorable visit.
- Te Anau Hill: Located 17.7km from Te Anau Downs, Te Anau Hill is a charming village that attracts seasonal visitors, with peak travel occurring between December and February. Known for its exquisite scenery and outdoor activities, this destination is perfect for those seeking a romantic retreat. The area boasts excellent golf courses and resorts, offering a delightful blend of relaxation and recreation. The nearby lakes enhance the tranquil atmosphere, making it a lovely spot for leisurely strolls or picnics amidst nature's beauty.
- Mount Prospect: Situated 30.6km from Te Anau Downs, Mount Prospect is a scenic suburb that also experiences seasonal peaks in visitor arrivals, particularly during the summer months. This area is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures, attracting those who appreciate hiking and trail access. The proximity to stunning lakes and mountains provides a perfect backdrop for exploration and relaxation. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in nature or enjoy a romantic escape, Mount Prospect offers a captivating experience for all visitors.
Things to do in Te Anau Downs
Shopping
In Te Anau Downs, enjoy local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Te Anau's main street for a variety of boutique shops and craft stores, located approximately 19.3km away, providing an array of local artisan products and memorabilia.
Recreation
At Te Anau Downs, the Fiordland Lodge Spa offers rejuvenating treatments amidst breathtaking landscapes, allowing you to relax and recharge. Nearby, explore the serene walking trails and enjoy the tranquillity of nature, ideal for unwinding and connecting with the stunning environment of Southland.
Adventure
In Te Anau Downs, explore the stunning landscapes with kayaking adventures on Lake Te Anau, or embark on scenic hikes leading to breathtaking viewpoints. Experience the thrill of jet boating on the Waiau River, offering an exhilarating ride through magnificent scenery and pristine wilderness.
Nightlife
Te Anau Downs offers a tranquil nightlife experience, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration. Enjoy a relaxed drink at the local pub, where friendly locals share stories, or take a scenic stroll along the lakefront under the starry sky, soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Te Anau Downs
Te Anau Downs is a budget-friendly destination with free attractions like Lake Te Anau. To save on accommodation, visit during the cheaper months of May to June and August, and book about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Saturday is the least expensive day to stay, while Tuesday is the most costly. Utilise Expedia's search tools to compare prices and filter by budget. Consider combining hotel bookings with flights and activities for additional savings. Public transport options include buses and cars, making it easy to explore the area affordably.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Te Anau Downs are May to June and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Te Anau Downs about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Te Anau Downs is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Te Anau Downs is Tuesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking at Te Anau Downs with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Te Anau Downs
Te Anau Downs is a stunning destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking romantic getaways. Visitors can explore beautiful lakes, intriguing caves, and scenic piers that provide a unique blend of nature and adventure. This region caters to travellers desiring beach and scenic experiences, with a variety of nearby attractions to enhance your stay. Whether you're hiking, relaxing by the water, or discovering local wonders, Te Anau Downs promises an unforgettable experience.
- Te Anau Glowworm Caves: Venture into the enchanting Te Anau Glowworm Caves, located 14.5km from Te Anau Downs. Experience the magic of bioluminescent glowworms illuminating the dark caverns, creating a surreal atmosphere amidst stunning limestone formations. The guided tour offers an adventure that combines nature and wonder.
- Lake Te Anau: Just 9.7km away, Lake Te Anau boasts breathtaking scenery and tranquil beaches. Ideal for picnics or leisurely strolls, this picturesque lake provides a romantic setting with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush landscapes.
- Te Anau Downs Jetty: Situated within Te Anau Downs, the Te Anau Downs Jetty is a charming pier frequented by friendly locals. It's a great place to embark on boating adventures or simply enjoy the serene lakeside atmosphere on a budget.
Best time to go to Te Anau Downs
The best time to visit Te Anau Downs can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Te Anau Downs falls in January and February. February has slightly high visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather. The coolest average temperature in Te Anau Downs falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Te Anau Downs
Accessing Te Anau Downs is convenient via two major airports. Queenstown Airport (ZQN) is situated 74.0km away and is served by several airlines. Recommended hotels nearby include the Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, a 5-star hotel just 1.1km from the airport, The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments, 4.8km away, and QT Queenstown, 6.4km from the airport. Invercargill Airport (IVC), located 141.6km from Te Anau Downs, also offers good accommodations such as the Homestead Villa Motel, Balmoral Lodge Motel, and Shelby Motor Lodge, all 3.2km from the airport. Each hotel provides easy access to their respective airports for a hassle-free journey.