Forest Lodge Castle Hill Nature photoForest Lodge Castle Hill Exterior photoForest Lodge Castle Hill Exterior photo
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From29US$ /night
Check-in
12Apr2026Select date
Check-out
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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

Hotel Information

Mt Cheeseman Skifield Road, Castle Hill, New Zealand, 7580
-
Close to the ski lifts
Great
8.9
/10
4.0
4.8
/5

Forest Lodge - An off-grid adventure lodge with dorm-style accommodation, mountain views, and access to outdoor activities

Forest Lodge provides backpacker-style accommodation in dormitory rooms sleeping 38 people, with shared kitchen facilities and ski storage space. The lodge operates off-grid, relying on solar power and a diesel generator for heating and hot water, and offers Eco Store toiletries for purchase. Guests can enjoy direct access to mountain biking trails, rock climbing at Castle Hill Rocks (15 minutes away), and skiing at Mt Cheeseman (3 km away). A continental breakfast is available each morning at Forest Lodge. The nearest airport is Christchurch International Airport, located 98 km from the property. The lodge features a natural ice-rink and is surrounded by trails connecting Flock Hill to Castle Hill Village, known as the Craigieburn Trails.

Pros

Direct access to outdoor activities like skiing, mountain biking, and rock climbing.

Off-grid, eco-conscious operation with solar power and natural cleaning products.

Natural ice-rink and exceptional night sky viewing due to zero light pollution.

Proximity to multiple ski areas, including Mt Cheeseman (15 minutes away).

Cons

Limited cell phone coverage and electricity due to off-grid location.

Guests must bring their own sleeping bags or rent bedding for an additional fee.

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Select your room type

Forest Lodge offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Double or Twin Room Extra Bed
2 persons
45 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Bed 6-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room
2 persons
65 sq. feet 
1 Bunk bed
Shower

Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

Forest Lodge offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.8/10Review score

General

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Free Wi-Fi in public areas
  • Parking
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • Ski storage
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

  • Skiing
  • Hiking

Guest Parking

  • Shared kitchen

Services

  • Pet amenities available

Dining

  • Picnic area/ Tables

Children

  • Board games

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled
  • Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area
  • BBQ facilities
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Garden furniture

Self-catering

  • Shared kitchen

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Forest Lodge Location

Mt Cheeseman Skifield Road, Castle Hill, New Zealand, 7580
Map view
Mt Cheeseman Skifield Road, Castle Hill, New Zealand, 7580
Nearby
Picnic Rock Lookout
3700 ft
Explore Castle Hill
Local Discoveries
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Picnic Rock Lookout
17 minutes' walk
Panoramic views of the Southern Alps await at this scenic lookout. Ideal for a relaxing break, perfect for picnics.
Ground Effect Switchbacks
20 minutes' walk
A unique cycling trail offering breathtaking views. Perfect for mountain biking enthusiasts looking for a thrilling ride.
Mount Cheeseman
10-minute drive
A popular ski area providing winter sports and hiking trails in summer. Stunning landscapes year-round.
Castle Hill
10-minute drive
Famous for its limestone rock formations, ideal for photography and bouldering. A must-see natural landmark.
Mountain Biking at Ground Effect
20 minutes' walk
Thrilling trails for all levels. Rentals available nearby, making it easy to hit the tracks.
Hiking at Cave Stream Scenic Reserve
10-minute drive
Relaxing nature walks through stunning landscapes. Access to various trails for all hiking abilities.
The Café at Mt Cheeseman
10-minute drive
Casual atmosphere offering hearty meals and coffee. Famous for its homemade pies and fresh ingredients.
Castle Hill Village Store
10-minute drive
Cozy eatery with local specialties and café-style offerings. Great for a quick bite or takeaway.
Local Pub
10-minute drive
A relaxed pub featuring live music on weekends. Perfect for winding down after a day of activities.
Castle Hill Community Hall
10-minute drive
Hosts various events and shows throughout the year. Check for family-friendly events or local talent showcases.
Getting around
City Centre
Castle Hill8 min  ·  3.0 mi
Airports
Christchurch (CHC)147 min  ·  60.7 mi
Greymouth (GMN)221 min  ·  91.5 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-20:00
Check-out
from 06:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
37

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Forest Lodge from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 49 verified reviews
8.9/10
Great
92%
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.1/10
Comfort
9.3/10
Facilities
8.8/10
Location
9.2/10
Staff
9.5/10
Value for money
9.3/10
Pros
Mountain views
Clean bathrooms
Quiet place
Friendly staff
Cons
Late check-in
Non-working outlets
No coffee
Guest reviews
based on 115 reviews
8.9/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About Forest Lodge
What is the nearest airport to Forest Lodge?
The nearest airport is Christchurch International Airport, located 94 km from the property.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Forest Lodge?
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 10:00.
What nearby attractions are accessible from Forest Lodge?
Nearby attractions include Broken River Ski Field (17 km), Craigieburn (19 km), and Cave Stream Scenic Reserve (5 km).
What outdoor activities can guests enjoy while staying at Forest Lodge?
Guests can enjoy hiking and skiing in the surrounding area.
Is parking available at Forest Lodge?
Free private parking is available on-site without the need for a reservation.
What types of accommodations are offered at Forest Lodge?
Forest Lodge offers dorm-style accommodations that sleep up to 38 people.
Are pets allowed at Forest Lodge?
Pets are allowed at the hotel.
What amenities does Forest Lodge provide for guests?
Amenities include free Wi-Fi, ski storage space, a shared lounge, and barbecue facilities.
What cooking facilities are available at Forest Lodge?
The hotel features a shared kitchen where guests can prepare meals.
What is the distance from Forest Lodge to Castle Hill?
Castle Hill is approximately 10 km from the hotel.
Is there any on-site entertainment or leisure available at Forest Lodge?
The hostel offers a leisure room with board games for guests.
What type of environment is around Forest Lodge for stargazing?
The area around the hotel is known for exceptional night sky viewing due to zero light pollution.

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Check-in
12Apr2026Select date
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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room