Search Franz Josef Glacier hotels

Top reasons to visit Franz Josef Glacier

• Stunning Glacier Experiences: Explore the majestic Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers through guided hikes or scenic air safaris.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy thrilling activities like glacier hikes, Waiatoto River safaris, and breathtaking road trips.
• Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in nearby hot springs after a day of exploration, soaking in the natural beauty.
• Charming Village Atmosphere: Experience the friendly local culture in the quaint Franz Josef Glacier village.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from eco-certified motels to scenic hotels for a comfortable stay amidst stunning landscapes.

Find great hotels in Franz Josef Glacier

Discover the charm of Franz Josef Glacier with a range of accommodation options that cater to every type of traveller. From eco-certified motels to scenic hotels, you’ll find the perfect base for your adventure in this stunning location. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly facilities or simply a comfortable retreat, the hotels in Franz Josef Glacier promise an unforgettable experience surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

• Rainforest Retreat: Nestled within the lush surroundings of Franz Josef Glacier, Rainforest Retreat offers a unique holiday park experience with a focus on nature and pet-friendly accommodations. This 4-star property, rated 8.8 out of 10 by guests, is ideal for those seeking a laid-back getaway, allowing pets on-site. Guests can enjoy the tranquility of the rainforest while taking advantage of amenities designed for comfort, including pet-friendly policies that ensure your furry friends can join the adventure.
• Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier: A 4-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier embraces adventure and eco-consciousness. Located in the heart of Franz Josef, this hotel is perfect for those keen on outdoor activities, offering easy access to hiking, biking, and horse riding nearby. As an eco-certified establishment, it caters to environmentally-aware travellers while providing a comfortable base to explore the stunning natural landscape and partake in various recreation activities.
• Franz Josef Oasis: With an impressive guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, Franz Josef Oasis stands out as a premium 4-star hotel. This property provides a delightful dining experience with complimentary continental breakfast and a restaurant on-site. Situated amidst breathtaking mountain views and close to the national park, guests can enjoy various recreational activities such as horse riding and fishing. The hotel rooms feature modern amenities, including flat-screen TVs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Where to stay near Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier offers an incredible blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, making it a must-visit for any traveller. Explore the charming Franz Josef Glacier village, where friendly locals welcome you to experience the thrill of glacier hikes and breathtaking road trips. With its convenient location, you can easily access the surrounding natural wonders, making it perfect for romantic getaways or family-friendly excursions in this extraordinary region of New Zealand.

• Westland Tai Poutini National Park: Nestled approximately 12.9km from Franz Josef Glacier, Westland Tai Poutini National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its stunning scenery and adventurous spirit, this national park offers a plethora of hiking trails and recreational areas. With visitor numbers peaking in January, March, and November, it’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in nature. Highlights include breathtaking mountain views and serene lakes, ideal for those seeking a tranquil escape amidst majestic landscapes.
• Waiho: Located around 14.5km from Franz Josef Glacier, Waiho is a charming suburb that draws visitors year-round, peaking during the summer months from December to February. Renowned for its scenic beauty and outdoor adventures, Waiho offers a unique blend of relaxation and excitement. Visitors can indulge in body treatments at local spas or explore the trails that wind through the stunning landscape. Key attractions include the impressive glacier and nearby parks, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
• Okarito: Situated about 17.7km from Franz Josef Glacier, Okarito is a picturesque suburb that attracts visitors with its romantic allure and outdoor activities. The area sees a surge in travellers during January to February and November, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. Okarito is perfect for those looking to ski or hike, with trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding lakes and glaciers. This hidden gem is ideal for couples seeking a peaceful retreat in a breathtaking natural setting.

Things to do in Franz Josef Glacier

Shopping

The heart of Franz Josef Glacier offers charming local shops like the Glacier Hot Pools Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and the Franz Josef Glacier Centre for local crafts. If you're up for a drive, Hokitika, about 30 kilometres away, features more extensive shopping options, including artisan shops and galleries.

Recreation

The Glacier Hot Pools offer a relaxing soak in natural thermal waters, surrounded by lush rainforest. After a day of exploring, unwind at the nearby Te Waonui Forest Retreat, where you can enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments amidst stunning mountain views.

Adventure

Explore the Franz Josef Glacier on a guided hike, witnessing the stunning ice formations up close. For thrill-seekers, a helicopter tour offers breathtaking aerial views of the glacier and surrounding mountains, while the nearby hot pools provide a relaxing end to an adventurous day.

Nightlife

Visit the Glacier Hot Pools for a relaxing soak under the stars. For a lively atmosphere, check out the Alice May Restaurant, offering a great selection of local wines and hearty meals. End your night at the Glacier View Motel bar, enjoying a drink with fellow travellers.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Franz Josef Glacier

To save money on your trip to Franz Josef Glacier, consider visiting during the cheaper months of May or August to September. Book your accommodation about a month in advance, or check for last-minute deals on Expedia. Aim to stay on a Saturday for the best rates. Use Expedia’s search tools to filter by budget and eco-friendly options. Combining accommodation with flights and activities in a package deal can also lead to savings. Look for options that include continental breakfast for added value.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Franz Josef Glacier are May and August to September, 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Franz Josef Glacier is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Franz Josef Glacier is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Franz Josef Glacier is Wednesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can sort the results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Franz Josef Glacier accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure with stunning scenery and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the majestic Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, soak in the nearby hot springs, or admire the local church. This destination is perfect for those seeking both thrilling activities and serene landscapes in New Zealand's breathtaking West Coast region.

• Glacier Hot Pools: Nestled within Franz Josef Glacier, the Glacier Hot Pools offer a serene oasis surrounded by lush rainforest. Immerse yourself in natural hot springs, where the soothing waters provide the ultimate relaxation experience, perfect after a day of exploring the region.
• Franz Josef Glacier: Located approximately 9.7km from the township, Franz Josef Glacier features breathtaking scenery, with its colossal ice formations and stunning blue hues. Guided tours allow you to witness the glacier's majestic beauty up close while learning about its fascinating geology.
• Our Lady of the Alps: This charming church, located within Franz Josef Glacier, showcases beautiful architecture and a tranquil atmosphere. It serves as a peaceful retreat, allowing visitors to reflect and appreciate the spiritual essence of the stunning surroundings.

Best time to go to Franz Josef Glacier

The best time to visit Franz Josef Glacier is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with frequent rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	32.4°F (0.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	27.1°F (-2.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	25.0°F (-3.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	26.4°F (-3.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	28.9°F (-1.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	32.5°F (0.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Franz Josef Glacier

Accessing Franz Josef Glacier is convenient via nearby airports. Hokitika Airport (HKK) is situated 99.8km away, with excellent accommodation options such as the 5-star Rimu Lodge, located 6.4km from the airport, offering limited hours airport shuttle services. The 4.5-star Awatuna Sunset Lodge is another nearby choice, 11.3km away. Timaru Airport (TIU-Richard Pearse) is 132.0km from the glacier, featuring hotels like the 4.5-star Aspen on King Motel and the 4-star Ashbury Park Motel, both within 11.3km. These airports provide a range of transportation services to facilitate your journey to the stunning glacier region.