Kinloch Wilderness Retreat
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Kinloch Wilderness Retreat

Traveller (370)
Room & Suite (80)
Dining (25)
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Avg. AU$191 /night, 2/14 - 2/15
AU$304
per night
AU$248
per night
AU$191
per night

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About

#2 of 5 lodges in Glenorchy
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Location
4.2 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
4.3 of 5 bubbles
Value
4.4 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.6 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.4 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Set in a spectacular setting on the lakefront opposite Glenorchy township between the Routeburn and Greenstone tracks, a stay at Kinloch Wilderness Retreat is a highlight of any holiday. With a variety of room types, including shared dorms, private doubles, family rooms and heritage queen rooms, there's something for everyone. Our 13 Wilderness rooms are hostel style and our Heritage lodge, with 6 rooms, dates back to 1868. The site can be hired in sections or as a whole for groups. There's a cosy restaurant on site, hot tub with a view, bikes and fishing rods for hire, kayak trips in the summer and a TV room for those looking to relax. For those wishing to self-cater we have a communal kitchen, BBQ facilities and inside and outdoor seating. Kinloch is a haven for walkers, fishermen and people who want to be immersed in their natural environment. There are many activities in the area which we are happy to help organise, we offer track transport to the Routeburn and Greenstone/Caples; we can arrange transport for those without a car.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free internet
Yoga classes
Hot bath
Bar / lounge
Bicycle rental
Boating
Kids stay free
Parking
Wifi
Coffee shop
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Complimentary tea
Kids' meals
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Wine / champagne
Canoeing
Game room
Hiking
Horseback riding
Windsurfing
Fishing
Board games / puzzles
Books, DVDs, music for children
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Highchairs available
Pets Allowed ( Dog / Pet Friendly )
Shuttle bus service
BBQ facilities
Baggage storage
Gift shop
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Shared bathroom
Shared kitchen
Shared lounge / TV area
Sun terrace
First aid kit
Clothes dryer
Self-serve laundry
Washing machine
Room features
Blackout curtains
Bathrobes
Housekeeping
Seating area
Separate dining area
Oven
Radio
Walk-in shower
Separate living room
Clothes rack
Stovetop
Electric kettle
Kitchenware
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
Mountain view
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Qualmark.
4.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Quaint
Harbour View
Languages Spoken
English, French
4.5
4.5 of 5 bubbles464 reviews
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Reviews summary
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
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Kinloch Wilderness Retreat has won accolades for its cleanliness and friendly service, which contribute to a relaxing atmosphere complemented by scenic views and music. The hotel's amenities, including comfortable rooms with kitchens and hot tubs, are often praised by guests. Despite its tranquil and picturesque location being a highlight, some travelers feel that the value is diminished by high prices for food and beverages, and cramped rooms with limited space for luggage.
Location
Picturesque
Atmosphere
Inviting
Rooms
Cramped
Value
Expensive
Cleanliness
Immaculate
Service
Friendly
Amenities
Well-appointed

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Detailed Reviews
Navigate63139496418 wrote a review Apr 2024
Auckland, New Zealand
4.0 of 5 bubbles
We changed our booking at the last minute and ended up in one of the dorm rooms with four beds, two bunks. These rooms are designed for two occupants and was extremely crowded with four of us without enough space to keep our luggage.
On the positive, the setting is lovely, the public spaces are well maintained with everything you need. The washing/dryer machines are much appreciated after tramping.
The staff are wonderful and helpful.
on the negative, the sandflies are nasty, and the code system to get into the rooms is a nightmare.
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Date of stay: March 2024
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
3.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
4.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thomas G wrote a review Nov 2023
Bagneux, France
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I spent a very nice time in this quiet and beautiful establishment. Haven't had the time to try the hot tub, but sure it's worth it. The view is beautiful and the remote location makes the environment really enjoyable. The access to the rooms is very easy thanks to connected lock and the app downloadable on every platform
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Toni Glover, Owner at Kinloch Wilderness Retreat
Responded 19 Nov 2023
Thank you for your wonderful review
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
A lot to digest? Read an AI-generated summary of recent traveller reviews.
matt wrote a review Dec 2024
Singapore, Singapore
5.0 of 5 bubbles
The place is in a spectacular location for a start and the music playing in the verandah as you enter makes you feel like you are well and truly in a place you can relax and forget about everything and everywhere else.

The facilities are clean and in great condition. But it is the atmosphere that is created by the location and the people and the views that makes this an amazing place to stay…
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Date of stay: November 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Toni Glover, Owner at Kinloch Wilderness Retreat
Responded 19 Dec 2024
Thanks for your review - we love that you felt the feeling of relaxation that we try to cultivate. Hope to see you again sometime.
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ali D wrote a review Jan 2025
1.0 of 5 bubbles
Inaccessible 9km deep gravel road. Not their responsibility but as they write welcoming, in advance, is not mentioned at all. Only mentioned after booking is paid for. Negotiated a track transfer...be warned. This cost us $120 to cover the inconvenience TO THE STAFF. expect customers to know how they like to run the place and also to know what information on which website is wrong. They are 3.7 km from Glenorchy as the crow flies over the river. Otherwise it's 26km by road. Hostile and remote experience. No doubt there will be a defensive response about what they are not responsible for. We suggested they let people know before they arrive, not only about the sandflies and how many activities they can arrange, but also about the access and how dar they really are from Glenorchy. They didn't agree. Booking via a third party also meant somehow we were responsible. Be warned, the attitude here is 'once booked, you're hooked.' Way overpriced for what you get and retreat can also be experienced as captive.
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Date of stay: January 2025Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Just don't go. You can retreat and be alone in far nicer places.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Simon Thompson wrote a review May 2021
2.0 of 5 bubbles
My friends and I stayed at Kinloch in April ahead of completing the Routeburn Track. We were told that Kinloch was an "upscale backpackers" with higher quality rooms available as well.

When we arrived, we were dismayed to find that Kinloch's cleanliness and rooms were of a far lower standard than any of the backpackers we had stayed at so far on the trip, despite charging considerably more per night. The main issues that we encountered here were: the kitchen (ovens would not light - it took an unenthused staff member close to 20 minutes to come light them for us), the faucets (the handle broke when we turned on the water and the manager had to come repair this), and the toilets/showers (the light turns out on you after 5 minutes, and were just generally dirty/unkept).

There were positives too though. The hot tub under the stars was very nice, and the surrounding scenery was breathtaking.

On the whole, the place was just generally none too clean, and quite cold. Ultimately, I would recommend staying in Glenorchy for the night if you are visiting the area rather than coming out to Kinloch.
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Date of stay: April 2021
3.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
3.0 of 5 bubblesService
3.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Toni Glover, Owner at Kinloch Wilderness Retreat
Responded 10 May 2021
Sorry that you didn't enjoy your time with us. We clean everything daily and would happily clean anything brought to our attention that's not up to standard. These guests did arrive late so other guests had the opportunity to impact the site after staff had finished for the day. We apologise that the electric oven didn't work, we don't test appliances on a regular basis and are unaware of faults unless someone tells us. There are instructions on the wall for the gas oven which work if followed correctly, sorry I was unenthused about coming back down to do this for you after finishing a busy 10hr day, but it definitely only took 5 minutes of my time. Our taps don't usually break so we're not sure what happened there but thankfully John was able to fix it, especially as it was late and we operate in a remote location. There is no timer on the lights in the toilets or in the sink area of the showers, there are timers on the lights in the showers that last 10 minutes to try and encourage efficient use of the facilities for both the environment and the sake of other guests wishing to use them. These areas are cleaned daily and other reviews all over the internet indicate that guests are pretty happy with our site. We admit we're not perfect, this has been a very leanly staffed year and staff will occasionally make mistakes and miss things, as all humans do, but we do our best to keep the site clean and welcoming for our guests. There are heaters in every room and firewood in the lounge for the wood stove so it's only as cold as guests choose to be. We have many guests who keep returning and love Kinloch and we have a lot of glowing reviews and feedback from them. We are always happy to hear what we can do better but exaggerations of events aren't helpful.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
foxyhilton wrote a review Feb 2024
Encinitas, California
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Our stay at Kinloch Wilderness Retreat far exceeded my expectations. Our rooms were very comfortable and access to the living area and library/game room and front porch made the visit particularly delightful. There were plenty of opportunities to "lounge" and relax. One in our party initially had some concern about sharing a bathroom. However, it never presented a problem and the bathrooms were always accessible, spacious and clean and tidy. We particularly appreciated the opportunity to bring our own food and drink and to have use of the large kitchen and dining hall. Space for our food was provided in a large refrigerated section and also in individual plastic containers intended for shelf staples. The lodge provided ways to label everything. It was delightful meeting other trekkers from around the world and sharing cooking, food and conversation. We took a kayak trip which was also wonderful and a great way to see the great beauty of the area. The retreat was close to the Routeburn Track and other hiking areas as well as some filming locations for the Lord of the Rings trilogy. It was all splendid. Staff were personable and helpful. I would highly recommend this place and hope to return some day.
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Date of stay: January 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Toni Glover, Owner at Kinloch Wilderness Retreat
Responded 27 Feb 2024
Thank you so much for your lovely review, we hope to welcome you back in the future and are so glad you enjoyed your stay.
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
582lucy wrote a review Mar 2024
Wellington, New Zealand
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Stunning location for some rest n relaxation. Or plenty of walking and outdoor activities nearby if that’s your thing. Enjoyed just taking in the vista along with tasty snacks. We stayed in an eco lodge which had all we needed. Definitely need to apply sandfly repellent. A non toxic variety was supplied. A tranquil vibe. It’s about a 75min drive from Queenstown around the lake.
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Date of stay: March 2024Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Toni Glover, Owner at Kinloch Wilderness Retreat
Responded 12 Mar 2024
Thanks so much for your review Lucy
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
dolly070759 wrote a review July 2024
Nelson, New Zealand
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Amazing place to stay. Phenomenal views from your bed. We stayed in one of their new eco 'huts' which were very luxurious, warm and comfortable. It was situated next to the spa pool of which we didn't partake because air temperature very cold and the spa felt warm not hot so we chickened out lol! The staff were lovely. We stayed 2 nights and had 2 chefs, one on each night, preparing a set menu for dinner each evening. The food was delicious and unusual with a middle Eastern twist. It was great to try something different. Plenty of choice for breakfast, freshly prepared to order. Would love to come back again. It was a lovely birthday treat.
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Date of stay: July 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: It's a way out on gravel road from Glenorchy so if you don't want to eat in the restaurant it's...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Toni Glover, Owner at Kinloch Wilderness Retreat
Responded 23 Aug 2024
Thank you so much for your review, we're so pleased you had a lovely time.
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
CosmoExPat wrote a review Sept 2023
Manama, Bahrain
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Several years before, I visited Kinloch in a campervan, but when I decided to revisit the area, I also chose to travel by “normal” car and thus needed “normal” accommodation, which resulted in me choosing Kinloch Wilderness Retreat, and more specifically an EcoScapes bungalow.
But there isn’t really a lot of “normal” things about the EcoScapes bungalow. They’re built very ecologically conscious, yet come with all the modern amenities one could wish for (heater, a/c, WiFi, mini fridge, tea/coffee station).
The extremely comfortable bed looks out onto the head of Lake Wakatipu, but just in case you get tired of the view, you can lower the window blind and switch on the projector to watch any of your favourite subscription services via Google Chromecast or AppleTV.
The restaurant of the main lodge is probably around 50 meters walk away, and the chef prepares fantastic meals with local and Kiwi fare.
And if, after a long day of hiking and exploring the surrounds, you feel like you could use a little relaxation help, as a resident of one of the EcoScapes bungalows, you can use the open air hot tub that also looks out over Lake Wakatipu and the Humboldt Mountains beyond. (You might have to share the hot tub with the other EcoScapes guests, but that’s just your party plus maximum two other guests of the other bungalow.)
If the hot tub is not the right thing for you, you can still enjoy sitting down on your private little deck enjoying lake and mountain views.
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Toni Glover, Owner at Kinloch Wilderness Retreat
Responded 30 Oct 2023
Thank you for your lovely and detailed review, we're so glad you had a wonderful time.
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Rosalie P wrote a review Mar 2021
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Kinloch is a beautiful tranquil location by the lake with many of the rooms overlooking these gorgeous surroundings, and heaps of birdsong throughout the day. Only have to walk a few minutes to be in the bush. All the facilities, including our room were very clean and ideal for our needs. Sitting in the hot tub viewing the lake and surrounds was a bonus! Having their own shuttle service to start/finish of walking tracks is ideal too. We’ll definitely come back and stay again!
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Date of stay: March 2021Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Toni Glover, Owner at Kinloch Wilderness Retreat
Responded 26 Mar 2021
Thanks so much for your lovely review Rosalie, we're so glad you had a wonderful time!
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Aysen M asked a question Nov 2017
Melbourne, Australia48 contributions
How do I get to kinloch without a car?
Answer from YHANewZealand
34 contributions
There is a shuttle service from centre of Queenstown to Kinloch during the trekking season: end October – end April. Alternatively you can pre-book a water taxi from Glenorchy direct to Kinloch for a minimum of two people. It is weather dependant but is backed up by vehicle transport. Booking ahead is essential. Contact Toni and John at Kinloch Lodge for more details on the best option for you. Kind regards, Jasmine - Marketing Executive
Answer from YHANewZealand
34 contributions
Hi Alpine_UtahTravelBug, As WTChris said there is no direct road between Kinloch/Glenorchy or Queenstwon and Milford Sound. You will need to travel back to Queenstown and on to Te Anau in order to get to Milford Sound. We would recommend staying in Te Anau the night before and after your trip to Milford to avoid 12+ hours of driving in a day. Kind Regards Jasmine - Marketing Executive
Chiu_ie asked a question Sept 2017
London, United Kingdom14 contributions5 helpful votes
How does one find the Eco cabins option for Nov?
Answer from Sarah H
9 contributions
Go to webpage for Kinloch Lodge Click on the menu top right Scroll down to accommodation to staying at the ecoscape Click on Book Now at the top and you can choose your dates. I hope that helps, otherwise email them as they are very helpful. reservations
Jan H asked a question Aug 2015
Perth, Australia4 contributions
How far from Glenorchy village are you?
Answer from Linda M
Wellington, New Zealand157 contributions53 helpful votes
About 45 minutes by car.
ali D wrote a tip Jan 2025
8 contributions
1.0 of 5 bubbles
"Just don't go. You can retreat and be alone in far nicer places. "
Read full review
Dreamer65117372213 wrote a tip Jan 2025
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Head up the road towards greenstone caples, there is a little bush walk with a cute jetty to jump off. Great views "
Read full review
Julie J wrote a tip Jan 2025
7 contributions5 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Book dinners in advance, because they're so far into the wilderness they need to plan ahead."
Read full review
ihiheke wrote a tip Nov 2024
5 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Watch for weather changes. Roads can be difficult."
Read full review
Kay wrote a tip Oct 2024
Sydney, Australia11 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Take a tropical strength insect repellent and sone stingoes if you get a sandfly night"
Read full review
Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Glenorchy area.
PRICE RANGE
AU$156 - AU$263 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
kinloch hotel glenorchy
FORMERLY KNOWN AS
Kinloch Lodge
LOCATION
New ZealandSouth IslandOtago RegionGlenorchy
NUMBER OF ROOMS
19
Prices are provided by our partners for one room, with variable occupancy rules as provided by the property, and reflect total costs of the stay, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
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KINLOCH WILDERNESS RETREAT (AU$156) - 2025 Prices & Reviews (Glenorchy, New Zealand) - Photos of Lodge - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Kinloch Wilderness Retreat
Which popular attractions are close to Kinloch Wilderness Retreat?
Nearby attractions include Glenorchy Animal Experience (4.0 km), Glenorchy Lagoon Scenic Walkway (2.7 km), and Mrs Woolly's General Store (3.2 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Kinloch Wilderness Retreat?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and free parking.
Which room amenities are available at Kinloch Wilderness Retreat?
Top room amenities include blackout curtains, a view of the mountains, and an oven.
What food & drink options are available at Kinloch Wilderness Retreat?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and breakfast during their stay.
Is parking available at Kinloch Wilderness Retreat?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Kinloch Wilderness Retreat?
Conveniently located restaurants include Akin, Kinloch Wilderness Retreat Restaurant, and Glenorchy Hotel Ltd Restaurant.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Kinloch Wilderness Retreat?
Yes, guests have access to yoga classes during their stay.
Are any cleaning services offered at Kinloch Wilderness Retreat?
Yes, self serve laundry and a clothes dryer are offered to guests.
Are pets allowed at Kinloch Wilderness Retreat?
Yes, pets are typically allowed, but it's always best to call ahead to confirm.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Kinloch Wilderness Retreat?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and French.
Does Kinloch Wilderness Retreat have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the mountain view available here.
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