Cupola Hut,
Nelson Lakes National Park
This one is all about the views. It’s a gruelling two-hour climb from the Travers Valley to reach Cupola Hut. However, its lofty perch opposite the imposing Mt Hopeless more than makes up for the effort. A cosy hut with a wood burner and eight bunks, Cupola was initially built as a scientific research base and still has the narrow observation windows the scientists used to spot wildlife.
The views across the valley to Mt Hopeless from the hut are fantastic, especially if you get the bunk with the observation windows, perfectly positioned for a cosy morning panorama. Still, don’t miss the short walk above the hut for even more expansive views, particularly good at sunrise.
The hut has an outdoor tap, a long-drop toilet, and a picnic bench for al fresco diners. Staying at Cupola Hut will cost $10, and you’ll need to purchase a standard hut ticket before you go.
To find out more about our visit to Cupola Hut, click here.
View of the front of Cupola Hut on a sunny day
Shovel at entrance of Cupola Hut for snowy winter days
Picnic table in front of Cupola Hut
Indoor wood storage at Cupola Hut
Having a coffee and enjoying the view at Cupola Hut
Bunk room inside Cupola Hut
View from main window at Cupola Hut
Path behind Cupola Hut leading above tree line (10 min)
Kitchen area of Cupola Hut
Best bunk at Cupola Hut where scientists used to spot wildlife
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We are Chris and Rico, and this is our blog. It’s a work in progress, so bear with us as we gradually fill it with stories, tips and top picks from our combined 20+ years of travel adventures. Consider supporting us as we document our learnings, but in the meantime enjoy!