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The best area to stay in Lake Desolation is directly on the lakefront, particularly around the southern and western shores.


This area provides direct access to the lake and its activities. Properties here often feature private docks, offering convenience for boating, fishing, and swimming. The main road, Lake Shore Drive, runs along much of the western edge, providing easy access to various accommodations and local amenities.


For families, staying in a rental house or cabin directly on the lake is ideal. These properties often come with fully equipped kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and outdoor spaces like decks or lawns, superb for children to play. The ability to step out of your door and onto a private beach or dock makes spontaneous swims and boat trips effortless.


Couples looking for a peaceful retreat will also appreciate the lakefront. Many accommodations offer stunning views of the water and surrounding forests, providing a serene backdrop for a relaxing getaway.

The best time to go to Lake Desolation depends on whether you're seeking winter sports or warmer weather activities.


For those interested in skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-based fun, the winter months from December to March are ideal. The region transforms into a winter wonderland, with reliable snowfall. You'll find many resorts offering a range of slopes for all skill levels, along with opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on well-maintained trails.


If you prefer hiking, boating, or simply enjoying the outdoors in milder temperatures, the summer months from June to September are perfect. The weather is generally warm and sunny, making it great for exploring the numerous hiking trails around the lake, swimming, or kayaking.

You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to ‘My Trips’ and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by ‘Fully refundable property’ for hotels in Lake Desolation.

One Key™—Expedia’s free travel rewards programme—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Lake Desolation hotels. Plus, you’ll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Prices for hotels in Lake Desolation often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$181 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by ‘Price: low to high’ for our cheapest rates.