Where Time Slows and the World Fades
Stay With Us
Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is a private alpine estate set across 66 hectares and beautifully positioned between the glacial waters of Lake Pukaki and the Ben Ohau Ranges. Aoraki Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain and a place of deep cultural and spiritual significance to Māori, is in full view from the Retreat.
With Aoraki Mount Cook National Park nearby and the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area beyond, a stay here places you within one of New Zealand’s most remarkable natural alpine environments surrounded by mountains, open skies and an extraordinary sense of space.
The Retreat is within a scenic two to three-hour drive of Queenstown, Wānaka or Christchurch, and approximately 40 minutes from both Takapō/Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook Village, gateway to the Southern Alps and its glaciers. Five private helipads provide direct helicopter access to the estate and villas.
Make your stay at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat even more memorable with our curated packages, designed to help you experience the best of the Retreat and the spectacular Aoraki Mackenzie region.
Discover a collection of exceptional villas where refined comfort meets the untouched beauty of Aotearoa. Set against the Southern Alps, Lake Pukaki and the Ben Ohau ranges, each villa offers a private sanctuary immersed in nature.
Experience the ultimate in privacy and exclusivity with exclusive use of the estate. Enjoy luxurious accommodation, personalised service and the freedom to make the Retreat entirely your own.
Planning your stay at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat? Find answers to some of the most common questions about our villas, facilities, experiences and what to expect during your stay.
Words From Our Guests
A piece of paradise. Absolutely worth a visit. This place has stunning views, luxury accommodation, top services and a private chef. You can spend time relaxing in a hot tub (which is absolutely amazing) under the stars along with peace and quiet. The lake is right in front of you as you look over the grassy lawn high up on a cliff, with Mount Cook in the background. There are plenty of things to do around this geologically rich area: bike trails, hikes, sightseeing, scenic flights and much more. the hosts were incredibly interesting, friendly and accommodating. We will be back for sure.
David P. New Zealand
Amazing retreat. My wife and I stayed at this fabulous lodge and it turned out be one of the best places we have ever stayed in the world. The proprietors, Kaye and Luke, were fantastic. The views and facilities were stunning. Food and wine was magnificent. Service was excellent. This is a must-visit in the South Island of New Zealand. Incredible views of Mount Cook. Cannot say enough about this special place.
Rory. Washington, DC
My husband and I recently had two incredibly days here. The accommodation is beautifully decorated and well kept. The views of the lake and Mt Cook stunning. The location is glorious. It is the service of the staff that makes this accommodation so perfect. Nothing is a problem for the staff. They are extremely attentive and so friendly. Our privacy was at the forefront of their minds and they made sure we did not want for anything. Every little detail was considered. The owner of the accommodation greeted us upon arrival and showed us around and the general manager was in touch with us before and after our visit. I cannot recommend this destination enough, if you want luxury, privacy, a beautiful and romantic setting and service that is five star that is the place to visit in the South Island.
Anick992. Christchurch, New Zealand