Mount Cook has become one of my favorite places to visit in New Zealand. We have journeyed there in both summer and winter and it is equally as awe-inspiring in both seasons. Mount Cook, also known as Aoraki, is the crown jewel of the Southern Alps and the highest peak in New Zealand. This magnificent destination offers a plethora of outdoor adventures for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
The Hermitage Hotel is our choice of accommodation as it serves as the perfect base for all our Mount Cook escapades. From the moment you step foot inside the hotel, you are enveloped in a world of warm hospitality and breathtaking views. The spacious and comfortable rooms offer a tranquil haven after a day of exploration, with many of them boasting stunning vistas of the towering Mount Cook. The hotel's attentive staff ensures that your every need is met, and their knowledge of the area proves invaluable when it comes to planning your adventures. The Alpine Restaurant is world-class with a range of culinary delights and a full bar service. The Sir Edmund Hillary Café and Bar is a relaxed family-friendly option and sits above the Sir Edmund Hillary Museum and 2D and 3D theatre. The best part is sitting in the Snowline Bar as the sun sets over the peaks, treating you to a canvas of vibrant hues, and you realize that this is more than just a hotel – it's a gateway to a world of untamed beauty and unforgettable memories.
There are many options for activities whether you choose to embark on a scenic hike, indulge in a glacier encounter, visit the museum or theatre or the indoor planetarium, take gorgeous night-sky photos or simply relax and take in the magnificence of the area all will leave you in awe of God’s divine nature in this special part of NZ. Some of the activities we have done while at Mount Cook have been follows:
Hooker Valley Track:
One of the most popular walks in the region, the Hooker Valley Track, promises a stunning adventure through glaciated valleys, alongside crystal-clear rivers and the Mueller Lake to the Hooker Lake. This relatively easy recommended 3-hour return walk, which took us 5 hours as there were so many photo opportunities and time to eat a packed lunch, takes you across swing bridges and offers panoramic views of towering mountains, including the iconic Mt Cook itself. Marvel at the turquoise waters of the Hooker Glacier Lake and be captivated by the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
Tasman Glacier View and Blue Lakes Track:
For a shorter yet equally rewarding walk, head to the Tasman Valley and embark on the Tasman Glacier View and Blue Lakes Track. This recommended 1-hour loop track, which again took me 2 hours due to the photos and the many steps to the viewpoint that overlooks the Tasman Glacier, rewards you with a magnificent view of the lake. Continue along the track to discover the Blue Lakes that offer a striking contrast against the surrounding rocky landscape. There is also the option of walking down to the Tasman Glacier Lake to get a more up-close view of the ice. The tranquility and serenity of this area are truly mesmerizing.
Helicopter Ride:
To experience the grandeur of Mt Cook and its surrounding alpine vistas, a helicopter ride is an absolute must. Take to the skies and soar over snow-capped peaks, sweeping glaciers, blue rivers and pristine valleys. As part of the experience the helicopter lands on a snowy ledge of one of the mountains where you witness the raw beauty of the landscape from a unique perspective, taking panoramic photographs that will forever capture the essence of this alpine wonderland. This helicopter ride is a must-do once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Mt Cook offers a range of adventures for all types of travelers and an unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in the majestic landscapes, breathe in the crisp alpine air, and create cherished memories that will forever be etched in your heart.
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