After two days in Glacier country without any internet, I'm back posting.

We enjoyed our stay at Franz Joseph Glacier Country Retreat which seemed more like an inn than a bed and breakfast. The building is a copy of an historic hotel from the area and sits in the middle of a large farm framed by the mountains. Since we were the only guests on the first night, we were upgraded to a larger room. I peaked in some of the other rooms and in my opinion, the baths are too small. So, I was happy for the upgrade that included a large jacuzzi type tub.

Since there were only the three of us for dinner, we were served at the dining table in the lounge (living room) area. The sun streamed through the bay windows while we enjoyed venison, cajun chicken or risotto. For the first time on this trip, I had desert - strawberry cream brulee.

While here, we took walks to the edge of both glaciers plus Lake Matheson. Our walk to Fox Glacier was especially cold.

Last night we had more guests at the inn. It was fun to enjoy before dinner wine with visitors from Holland, Switzerland, Toronto and England. Many had been to Huka Lodge and gave it rave reviews. After dinner, we all met again in the lounge for coffee and after dinner sweets.

Today, on our drive down the West coast to Wanaka, we stopped for a walk at Monroe Beach. The hike took us through the rain forest and out onto a rugged beach. We were hoping to see some small penquins but weren't there at the right time. A lone "teenage" seal entertained us.

The ride from Haas was especially pretty and now we are at Wanaka Springs B&B. Once again, the room is nice and we enjoyed wine on the deck with many of the other guests (mostly British).

No time to post pics but I have posted the 2nd installment on my blog - more Nelson and Abel Tasman and it includes pictures.

Tomorrow we are taking a jet boat ride so more later, I'm tired (plus posting CUI and I'm not even cruising yet!).