Fox Glacier & Franz Josef, Westland West Coast Accommodation overlooking Mount Cook, The Southern Alps & Lake Matheson

The village at Fox Glacier is the more "laid back" of the twin Glacier Country townships and is a good base from which to explore. There are many ways for the traveller to experience "Glacier Country", no matter what your fitness level, budget - or weather! Tourists flock to this renowned area annually to reap the rewards of this unique environment, from bravely climbing the face of glaciers, to fishing the plentiful salmon and trout waters, to experiencing the rainforest environment amongst intertwined walking tracks, there is an abundance of activities for all to indulge in. All in one place!

The mighty Fox is the largest and longest of the magnificent West Coast glaciers. It is remarkable in that it ends in temperate rainforest, 250 metres above sea level and a mere twelve kilometres from the sea. There are more 3,000m (10,000ft) peaks at the head of the Fox Glacier than in any other valley in New Zealand. Nowhere in the world’s temperate zones are glaciers so accessible.

One of New Zealand's great scenic icons is Lake Matheson, the famous reflection lake, which lies just 6km from Fox Glacier. On a still, clear day, this tranquil lake provides a picture-perfect reflection of New Zealand's highest peaks, Aoraki (Mount Cook) and Mount Tasman. The surface is a perfect natural mirror. The view is best at sunrise and sun set. An easy 40 minute walk takes you to the first viewing platform, and a complete circuit of the lake can be completed in one and a half hours.

Minnehaha is a great walking track taking a 20 minute stroll through the wild rainforest near Fox Glacier. Other nearby walks include the Nagai Tahu Track, the Chalet Lookout and Fox Glacier Valley Walks.

Historic Gillespie's Beach, a wilderness of crashing surf and distant snowcapped mountains, is best known for its seal colony and colourful gold mining history, and is approximately 25 minutes west by car.

We are happy to assist with sightseeing tours offering a range of enthralling guided walking excursions from half a day to 2 days duration to explore the spectacular ice formations. All companies provide professional guides that give full explanations regarding the geological features, flora and fauna of the area.

Helicopter and fixed wing aircraft provide the excitement of exploring a wild and remote part of the glacier offering scenic flights and snow landings amidst New Zealand's highest peaks overlooking the glaciers.

We can also advise on expert guided mountaineering trips, instruction courses, ski tours and special interest trips amongst New Zealand's highest peaks.