Lake Manapouri is known as the jewel in the crown of New Zealand's scenic wonders. The crystal clear lake is surrounded by the mountains of Fiordland National Park, average height: 4000-5000 feet.

There are 34 uninhabited islands within the lake and countless bays and deserted beaches. The lake area encompasses: 142sq km / 55sq miles.

Geological story: The peaks and forest-clad ridges explain in visual terms how the Fiordland lakes were formed. Massive sheets of ice moved through these landmasses, gouging lakes and ravines. So immense was this cutting action, that Lake Manapouri was dug to a depth of 1458 feet, which represents a point 850 feet below sea level.

Maori legend: Long ago a Maori princess was lost in Fiordland, she injured herself in a fall and was unable to move. She was found by her sister who by now was too frail and tired to carry her back home. Weeping, the sisters comforted one another, O pain! O sorrow! (pouri). Their tears rent the mountains apart and in this way, sorrowful Lake Mana-pouri was formed.

Manapouri village and the lakeshore are just 10 minutes walk from Beechwood Lodge. The town of Te Anau is 15 minutes drive north. Amenities in the Manapouri Village include: kayaking operator, cafes, bakery/grocery store, post-office, gas station, Book Store | Restaurants

Pomona Island: Manapouri is the gateway to Doubtful Sound and the starting point of hiking trails that include the Kepler Track. Pomona Island
is one of the unihabited islands within the lake, it is undergoing a restoration predator-free conservation program to restore native birdlife.

Lord of The Rings: film locations
are within a 10 minute to 1 hour drive from Beechwood Lodge and can be visited independently without a guide.

The mountain view above features in the movie and can be seen from the guest's rooms at Beechwood Lodge.