Arthur's Pass Alpine Motel

After travelling to NZ at various times over 49 years, we thought it was time to travel through Arthur's Pass and chose this motel for the night. Pros: We had a room to the front separated from the adjoining unit by a solid lesser block wall - no neighbour noise; double glazed windows and heaters in the main room and the bedroom - so the unit stayed lovely warm - a cosy unit. The two single beds were nice and firm and very comfortable, with a warm wool blanket and doona, so there was no need for any additional heating when sleeping. Yes, it was the older style buildings, but nice decor, nicely equipped with stainless steel pots and a stainless steel kettle (not those horrid plastic jugs). Being an older style motel complex, it appears to be looked after and upgraded as needed. It even has usb charging ports installed. Handy if you've misplaced your adapter. This little village may lack supermarkets and restaurants, but there are options to self-cater by planning ahead or dining at the odd eateries in the area. In season, there are a few dining options in the area. We knew about the Bealey Hotel, but it was closed for a short break - just our luck. Cons: We are light sleepers, and even with the double glazing, we could still hear and feel the coal trains I presume passing through and, a couple of times, idling. Trucks also were the occasional issue for us. On the whole about after 10.30 pm the train moved on until another woke me at 4.30. The other half unfortunately was woken more often. It's a lovely area of NZ and I'd love to explore it further in the various seasons.

You can not go past this wonderful motel as the place to stay in Arthur's Pass. Pete and Fi are warm, friendly and knowledgeable hosts who will make your stay even more enjoyable than just the stunning environment. The cabins are cosy, warm and well appointed. Each has its own native bird name and is a haven when it gets dark and frosty. Full kitchenettes, lots of hot water and the most magnificent clear night sky's. I spent two nights there this winter. So good for the soul!!! Very reasonable prices. Pete and Fi take great pride in this place and I was lucky to share it with them.

We felt welcome right from the start with friendly staff and the motel all warm on that cool alpine afternoon. Their introductory email pointed out that we needed to bring our own supplies unless we were eating out. There was milk in our fridge and teabags etc. Cooking and washing up was fun. The village and views are a great holiday place. Thanks!

The hotel was lovely and quiet (we had a family unit). The Queen bed was the most horrible bed I have ever felt in my life. Usually I can sleep anywhere, I can even sleep on the ground, oh but this bed……. It felt like it was 50years old, lumpy yet saggy. Please spend a few hundred and buy a new mattress. I ended up sleeping in one of the single beds.

This was a great little stop over, super clean and kitchen well equipped. Great location, close to lots of walks and Fi & Pete were very knowledgeable about the local area. Both were willing to help any way possible. Would recommend to anyone looking to stay in Arthur’s Pass!

We had a great time during our stay. Motel was easy to find, as it's just by the roadside towards Arthur's Pass Town. Motel was cozy and clean. Nice view from our balcony. Convenient location. Went during winter, the heater in the room was just nice and gives us a cozy, warm feeling.

This is a great location in Arthur's Pass Village. Friendly hosts. Basic accommodation but well equipped and clean. The real problem is the paper thin walls so sound travels from one accommodation to the next. Would not stay again for that reason.

I was warmely welcomed by Pete the owner who was helpful getting me set up, giving me tips and directions to the hiking trails. I received a heads up email a few days before my stay about the resticted food choices in town which was also very helpful. Cottage 9 was really big with 3 beds in an upstairs room, a vast living / dinning room with full kitchen and large bedroom. The only problem if you have enough people to fill all the beds you are still left with a single bathroom. The place was clean but could use a serious refresh, the furniture and equipment are very dated except for the windows and doors that have been upgraded. A good coat of paint would help in some area and most importantly the mattress, that will make or break your stay...... definitely broke me. Hard as a rock with a pronounced sagging, felt like an old 20 old matress, I ended up sleeping on the large sofa where I finally got a couple hours of sleep. The other thing that I've noticed that needed attention was the back and front porch, both full of spider web. (see pics). Separate from the Alpine Motel review here are a few observations about the town/location. There's not much to do in Franz Joseph and my recommendations is one night only if you have to, unless you are doing the long 8hrs trails. Lacks food options, isolated, plan accordingly.