Arthurs Pass

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Arthur's Pass - hidden in the Southern Alps

A December 2001 trip to Arthurs Pass by JuneSmiles

This journal should provide anyone wishing for a peaceful break or a tramping holiday in Arthur's Pass with enough information to make sure that they get the most out of this tranquil spot in New Zealand's South Island.

  • 6 reviews
  • 1 story/tip

Arthur's Pass - hidden in the Southern AlpsBest of IgoUgo

Overview

The main activity in this area is hill walking - getting out amongst the snowy peaks and lush mountains with the endless number of waterfalls - it is a heavenly spot. Instead of the sound of traffic all you can hear is the waterfalls tumbling down the mountain sides. To top it off the Kea (wild parrot native to New Zealand) is always at hand to keep you entertained ;-)

Quick Tips:

One word of advice - don't bother waiting at the post office for it to open at the displayed times (a half an hour a day). Sometimes it no longer opens at all - instead stamps and cards can be purchased in the tea rooms across the road.

Best Way To Get Around:

The only true way to explore this tranquil area is on foot.

Mountain HouseBest of IgoUgo

Hotel

You have the option of staying in the lodge in the town centre or in one of the cottages set off the road. The lodge is just like a stardard hostel arrangement with multi-share rooms. If you opt for the cottages you can book and entire cottage of share with other backpackers (i.e. just book a room in a cottage). The cottages all have an open fire (wood burner) which is heavenly after a day hiking in the cold), 2 showers & 2 toilets and a kitchen / dining room. Each cottage is kept spotless and the owners are very helpful. It is so nice to come back to these homely surroundings after a tough day in the mountains.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by JuneSmiles on January 1, 2002

Mountain House
Arthur's Pass Village Arthurs Pass, New Zealand

Chalet RestaurantBest of IgoUgo

Restaurant

This is the only restaurant open in Arthur's Pass after 6pm (there are some snacks available in the Tearooms). There is a set menu which contains main courses of pizza, steak, fillet steak, venison,beef. The starters include salmon and soup among others and the desserts include, lemon profitoroles, ice-cream, apple strudel and others. I can personally recommend the pizza, pan fried steak and the apple strudel. The restaurant also has an open fire which makes for a nice comfortable atmosphere. The set menu is the same each night so if you were staying longer than a week - self catering may become very attractive.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by JuneSmiles on January 1, 2002

Chalet Restaurant
Arthur's Pass Village Arthurs Pass, New Zealand

Devil's PuchbowlBest of IgoUgo

Attraction

The Devil's punchbowl is one of the more popular short walks in Arthur's Pass. It leaves from the carpark just past the chalet restaurant in the main village. The walk is well sign posted (look our for the orange arrows). Despite it being listed as an easy walk parts of it are steep and after heavy rainfall you have to pass through some streams. The waterfall is stunning and worth every drop of sweat! The walk itself is through the lush rainforest which is quite scenic. A good walk to do if you are hiking alone...due to its popularity it is frequented by many other hikers.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by JuneSmiles on December 31, 2001

Devil's Puchbowl
Arthurs Pass, New Zealand

Bridal Veil FallsBest of IgoUgo

Attraction

The walk is through a track in the lush rainforest and is a fairly easy trail. One of the easiest tracks in the area and a good one to start off with. Unlike some of the other tracks it doesn't take you to the base of the waterfall so when you see the sign to take a 1 minute diversion from the track to a viewing point be sure to take it as this is the best vantage point for the falls. I was disappointed to find the track ends at the main road and here you can decide to head back to the village by the main road or retrace your steps along the track.
  • Member Rating 3 out of 5 by JuneSmiles on December 31, 2001

Bridal Veil Falls
Arthurs Pass, New Zealand

Scotts TrackBest of IgoUgo

Attraction

When you first start the track you will be close to tears because the first few steps are steep but it's worth the few minutes of hardship because there is a great walk ahead. Be sure to keep an eye on the orange markers because part of the terrain is scrambling a river bed and not just following an obvious track. Be sure to turn around and look at the views over the village and across to the Devil's Punchbowl and Bridal Veil waterfalls. It is a tough walk which should not be attempted without hiking boots. Also be sure to leave your details (including intended route) with the DOC office so they can find you if you get injured or lost. It is a hike well worth doing.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by JuneSmiles on January 1, 2002

Scotts Track
Arthurs Pass, New Zealand

ShopsBest of IgoUgo

Story/Tip

The Tea-rooms is the main hub of activity in Artur's Pass and there are no real "shops". The tea rooms carry a small selection of groceries but these are very limited so if you are planning on self catering bring food with you. Also the nearest chemist is in Greymouth or Christchurch (about 2 hours drive in either direction) - so if you require medication make sure you take it with you.

About the Writer

JuneSmiles
JuneSmiles
Dublin, Ireland

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