Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas

After getting soaked at Milford Sound in 40-degree weather, the hot tub and steam room were priceless. In the off season the pool is closed, and access to the hot tub and steam room is by reservation. It sounds odd, but locking the door behind you, as the sign says, and having the whole building to yourself for 45 minutes while you go back and forth was delightful. The place is very old and dated, so we understand the bad things people say online. Still, the service was impeccable from everyone, the rooms were spotless, and the bathrooms are fully updated and modern. Despite being right across the street from the helicopter tour pad, noise wasn’t a problem. We ate there too: breakfast was as good as anywhere on our trip, dinner portions were gigantic, and the servers were incredibly attentive and kind.

The staff made a strong impression on us. We stayed in a villa in December, during peak tourism season, and they were warm, friendly, and accommodating before, throughout, and even after our stay. They helped with luggage storage and extra amenities, and kept making the effort after we’d checked out. Nothing seemed like too much trouble, especially impressive when things were so busy. Their hospitality sets a high bar for tourism in this part of the world. The location is excellent for the town centre, lake, and day trip departures. Breakfast was a hearty buffet with the usual good range. Highly recommended, and kudos to the outstanding staff for incredible service.

The location, staff, and bath amenities were the best we’d had in our first week in NZ, even compared with downtown AKL. We were there through a Luxe Tours package, and it couldn’t have worked out better. The front desk did call the hotel a little dated when I asked about cooling the room. The fan worked fine, though, and with the door open to the lake, it was perfect. We wanted the blanket before falling asleep. Our package was for two, so we had two queens instead of the king we’re used to, but that was no problem. It was quiet and comfortable, with a full breakfast buffet and a short walk to other good food. After another week in NZ, this was still the best stay of our trip.

As part of the three-day Luxe Tours itinerary, we had a very enjoyable and comfortable stay. The rooms were clean, with two queen beds, and service stayed top notch despite the number of guests. Breakfast was a sumptuous buffet with plenty to choose from, including eggs cooked to order. Dinner was excellent too, though a bit pricey. The spa was free to use, but its area and the dressing room need upgrading.