10 Most Romantic Accommodations in Franz Josef ❤️ [2024]

Where to Find the Best Honeymoon Accommodations and Romantic Stays in Franz Josef

For couples who love to adventure together, nowhere is quite as enticing as Franz Josef on the West Coast. Skydiving, scenic flights over the mesmerising Southern Alps, glacier heli-hikes, stunning hikes, quad biking, horse trekking… It’s all here in this alpine and rainforest playground. But in between days of exploring Franz Josef’s enchanting glacier landscapes, where should you stay for a couples’ getaway, honeymoon or anniversary? There are a few special places we have in mind. Check them out in our list of the most romantic accommodations in Franz Josef!

While you’re here, get inspired for your visit with our list of the 25 Best Things to Do in Franz Josef and The Romantic Getaway & Honeymoon Guide to Franz Josef.

1. Kahere Retreat

Inspired by nature, and lapping up so much of it in stunning forest and mountain surroundings, Kahere Retreat offers gorgeous chalets for couples. Stay in one of the five handcrafted self-contained chalets, each made with locally-sourced materials and have access to a spa pool soaking in the gorgeous surrounds. With rainwater supply, power from the local hydro station and using eco-brand toiletries, they are one of the most sustainably-minded accommodations in the area.

Check Kahere Retreat out:

10 Most Romantic Accommodations in Franz Josef

2. Te Waonui Forest Retreat

A five-star hotel nestled in the glorious rainforest, Te Waonui Forest Retreat is an utterly romantic accommodation in Franz Josef. Enjoy unbelievably comfortable king beds with woollen underlays and plush down bedding, as well as walk-in showers (in most rooms) and a private balcony stretching out into the native rainforest. If all of that wasn’t enough, the complex also includes a luxury spa with a menu of rejuvenating couples’ treatments. For more hotel-style stays, check out the 20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Franz Josef.

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3. Cosy Cabin in the Paddocks

Secluded and adorably quaint, Cosy Cabin in the Paddocks is a top holiday home in Franz Josef for couples. Located seven minutes out of town in a tranquil rural setting, this tastefully-appointed studio has a small kitchenette (microwave, toaster, fridge and kettle) with breakfast supplies included. You’ll also enjoy mod-cons like free WiFi and a TV with streaming services.

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4. Rainforest Retreat

Whether you’re on a budget or looking to splurge, couples will find a great selection of accommodation at the Rainforest Retreat. Not only is the rainforest setting romantic but there are some quality rooms available that you just won’t want to leave, like the cosy “Tree Hut” log cabin among the forest canopy or a more affordable unit in the “Gecko Village”. Campervan parks, holiday houses and “flashpacker” accommodation are also available. See more recommendations like this in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Franz Josef.

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5. Holly Homestead B&B

Perhaps you’ve stayed just about everywhere together and you’re looking for something a bit different? Set your sights on this rimu colonial homestead decorated in a “country chic” style and boasting Kiwi hospitality. The adults-only accommodation sets the tone right in peaceful surroundings just 1.5km (0.9 miles) from Franz Josef township. Choose from a small selection of king and queen rooms, as well as a “Deluxe Super-King” room for that extra bit of flair. All rooms are kitted out with quality linen, bathrobes and slippers, while the ensuites have luxurious extras like heated towel rails and demister mirrors.

Check Holly Homestead out:

6. Franz Josef Oasis

A boutique hotel just a few minutes north of the Franz Josef township, Franz Josef Oasis is a fine choice of accommodation to celebrate a special occasion like a honeymoon or anniversary. All of the 20 superbly-appointed rooms are on the ground floor soaking up the views of the mountains, forest, farmland and hotel gardens. Rooms feature romantic extras like your own fireplace and spa baths, while some rooms have extra-long beds. And in the morning, wake up to a generous buffet breakfast of endless espresso coffee, fresh fruit, local cheese, ham and free-range eggs. An a la carte menu is also available on an evening to share a romantic meal. See more upscale stays like this in our list of the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Franz Josef.

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7. Westwood Lodge

Experience ultimate comfort at this cosy luxury lodge on the outskirts of Franz Josef town. With spacious suites across the main lodge and outbuildings, exuding warmth with timber-lined interiors and twin-basin ensuites with a freestanding bathtub, Westwood Lodge is certainly an enticing place to return after a day exploring Glacier Country. Relax in the sumptuous guest lounge with a roaring fire or “take your cue” in the billiards room. A continental and cooked breakfast are also available, although not included in all room packages.

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8. 10 Cottages

As the name suggests, 10 Cottages offers 10 beautiful studio cottages surrounded by rainforest. The “One-Bedroom Cottages” are the best choice for couples and are just a short walk from town. Features of the cottages include a private deck to enjoy views of the Franz Josef Glacier Valley, as well as kitchen facilities and free unlimited WiFi. However, it’s the lush surroundings that are the most endearing quality of this romantic accommodation in Franz Josef. For more self-contained stays, check out the 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations in Franz Josef.

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9. JAG Escape Franz Alpine Retreat

Far enough away from town to escape the hustle and bustle but close enough for convenience, JAG Escape Franz Alpine Retreat is well worth considering. The accommodation 4 km (2.5 miles) outside of town is a top choice for couples with their own transport, offering one-bedroom units, chalets and cottages, some with and without self-catering facilities. Whatever you decide, you’ll be treated to uninterrupted mountain views and stellar stargazing away from the town lights.

Check JAG Escape Franz Alpine Retreat out:

10. Aspen Court Franz Josef

A motel might not evoke the most romantic of images, but Aspen Court Franz Josef is a little different. The modern five-star motel is nestled in the forest and offers high-quality units and studios, the most luxurious of which is the “Executive Spa Studio”. Each room has all the necessities you need for a romantic night-in including a kitchen, dining and lounge area, a TV and some ensuites also have a spa bath. Plus, there’s free WiFi and free milk on arrival, while a continental breakfast is also available. Check out more motels available in the 10 Best Motels in Franz Josef.

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More About Romantic Accommodations in Franz Josef

That’s it for our list of the best romantic accommodations in Franz Josef, but it’s by no means the end of our travel tips! Get more stellar Franz Josef travel advice from the following guides:

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Romantic Getaway & Honeymoon Guide to Franz Josef.

Sources:

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])

Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

Laura S.

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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