Lochmara Lodge

We stayed two nights. It is remote and only reached by 20 min water taxi or hiking. It is a lovely, picturesque setting in Queen Charlotte Track. People are very friendly and helpful, especially Bo at the desk. There are lots of trails to walk around with lots of unusual and comical sculptures. Kayaks and paddle boards are free to use. There is an underwater observatory. All in all, it’s a fun, scenic place with good food and friendly service. The only food available is in the cafe. The lodge has a very large property with lots of animals. They even have glow worms that are fun to see when dark. Highly recommend this unique lodge for fun and relaxation.

What a beautiful area to explore. This property is positioned in a stunning location with access to the Queen Charlotte track and wonderful views. We really enjoyed our stay but the place is just a little tired. It is up for sale and I have no doubt the new owners will spruce it up a little. I didn’t like all the signs around the place about paying extra for activities. You’d think when you pay top dollar for a property , you are not asked for a gold coin to view the eel feeding! I also didn’t like the fact that the day visitors share the hotel facilities. Perhaps they should have their own area as it gets a bit crowded in the restaurant and lake front area. But, we did enjoy our stay. The room is large, the bed comfortable and the food lovely.

Lovely sunny spot. Art trail was ok but not great.

A very nice place with lots to see and do.

BE AWARE THAT THERE IS NO ACCESS TO THIS HOTEL BY CAR! We drove from Picton, using navigation. After two hours of trying to find the hotel we called for directions. We called multiple times with no answer (between 5:30 and 6:00 p.m.) We finally called the number for the cafe there and were informed that the hotel reception was closed for the day. When we asked for directions we were told that the only acess to the hotel was either on foot via 2 hour hike, or by water taxi from Picton, but again that reception was closed! We were told to call back in the morning to discuss with reception. Multiple calls the next morning with no answer! The only negative experience in over two weeks in New Zealand.

Gorgeous location and great service, though the food and water taxis are a tad overpriced.

Immersed in nature and trails and water activities. The staff overall was fantastic and helpful. Reception staff was cold and judgmental. We were given a small amount of wifi and told that is not the reason we were visiting this lodge. We couldn't download our pictures from our devices. Wifi was advertised as free. We didn't need someone else to micromanage our wifi and or tech usage.

Fantastic place to visit bit hard to get to but well worth the effort

Incredible location. Lots of free things to do. Good food. Very beautiful views from almost everywhere

Wonderful peaceful spot only accessible by water taxi. Somewhat rustic (no AC or TV’s) but we were able to leave the sliding doors to the balcony open all night without any bug influx. Access to Queen Charlotte Track and all sorts of water sports available, plus feeding of parakeets and other animals. Excellent restaurant onsite.