Rainforest Retreat is nestled snugly amongst the famous lush West Coast bush. The tranquil setting makes for a unique stay amongst the trees and keeps us so well hidden most people don’t know how big the property is, or how much is on offer.
Just a short walk from the Franz Josef’s main street, Rainforest Retreat is full of surprises. Do you know about the Gecko Village? What about Bed In A Shed? Are you a flashpacker or perhaps you’re more of a Tree Hut kind of person. Unless you come in and explore the property, you may never know how big Rainforest Retreat is. Or that there is an accommodation option to suit just about every taste and budget.
So, how do you choose the right room? Here’s a breakdown of what’s on offer.
If you want a hotel or motel experience
We’ve got you covered. Rainforest Retreat offers private rooms, cottages, tree houses, or full houses. If you’re going to stay in the rainforest, you have to stay in a tree house. Our Tree Houses and Tree Lodges are nestled amongst the dense rainforest and range from studio-size to 4-bedroom size. These log cabin-style buildings offer plenty of privacy and are a unique West Coast experience.
Gecko Village offers 10 Gecko Cottages, beautifully restored 1940s workers cottages. The cottages are perfect for individuals, or a large group can book the whole village. And everyone loves the use of the private spa. You can also choose one of our park motel rooms for a budget option that offers a well-appointed room with the convenience of a kitchenette.
If you want a backpacker experience
If there’s one thing we know about it’s looking after backpackers. We know that some backpackers are on a tight budget and would prefer to save their cash for a night at the bar. And we know there are plenty of backpackers who would prefer a quiet, comfy room for the night. So, that’s why we have standard dorm rooms, flashpacker 4-bed rooms or a bed in a shed. Bed in a shed? Well, the title is pretty self-explanatory. These are a bed…in a shed and are perfect if you want privacy but are travelling on a tight budget. All backpacker rooms have access to the bathroom facilities in the main building and a huge kitchen, lounge and TV area.
If you want a campground experience
Offering a tranquil, setting amongst the bush, Rainforest Holiday Park is different to most big open, campsites. You can easily find your perfect spot nestled amongst the big old trees with plenty of privacy. Choose a powered or non-powered site and enjoy the use of kitchen and laundry facilities.
If you want a meal, a drink or a big night out
Everyone loves the Monsoon Bar at Rainforest Retreat. It’s a great place to grab a meal or a pizza and have a chat about your day on the glacier. Later on, things turn up a notch so you can choose to stay on for a big night, or retreat to your room and leave the party behind.
But wait, there’s more
Rainforest Retreat also offers an on-site spa, sauna and massage therapist, ideal for anyone who is recovering from a day on the glacier. We’re only 5 minutes walk from town but in this natural setting, it feels miles away. Rainforest Retreat is only a couple of minute’s walk from the Glacier Hot Pools and the Franz Josef Glacier Guides base building.
Whatever you choose, there will always be a friendly face at reception, and a drink ready for you at the bar. Feel free to drop us an email or give us a call if you need some help finding the best room for your Franz Josef Glacier stay.