Peter K
Google
Having stayed at Mountain Chalet Motels in Twizel several times over the years, including just last June (2025), I keep coming back for its dependable value and unique vibe. This place has a real sense of community about it – the individual chalets are clustered together almost like a little village, which feels quite different from a standard motel block.
Location-wise, it’s relatively close to the town centre, though honestly, everything in Twizel is pretty accessible given its compact size. The rooms themselves are definitely showing their age and feel a bit dated now. But here’s the main draw: they offer seriously good value, especially when you compare them to the significant price hikes seen at many other places in the region since COVID and the general tourist boom of the last decade or so.
Having your own little standalone chalet building gives you a nice sense of privacy you don't always get elsewhere. Don’t expect luxury, but do expect practicality. You’ll nearly always see plenty of four-wheel drives parked around – it’s a favourite spot for service workers and adventure enthusiasts heading out to explore the surrounding mountains and lakes, which adds to its down-to-earth character.
A real money-saver is the little kitchenette in each chalet. It’s basic, but it works perfectly well if you don’t mind whipping up your own meals, saving you from eating out for every breakfast or dinner. If you’re looking for modern bells and whistles, this isn’t it. But if you want a clean, comfortable, affordable base in Twizel with a bit of privacy and a community feel, Mountain Chalet Motels delivers reliably. It’s like staying in a familiar, slightly rustic village.
