2 Best Hotels in North Island's West Coast, New Zealand

A charming alpine-style building on the southern slopes of Mt. Taranaki, this 1896-built lodge offers stellar views of the coastline and native bush. Lodging choices include the Honeymoon Suite with its four-poster bed, the aptly named Panorama Room, and the quaint Family Room; all feature vintage wood paneling and carved headboards. Guests can enjoy a sumptuous three-course set dinner (book ahead) and unwind in front of a roaring fire. The restaurant is also open to the public by day, and by reservation at night.

High on the mountain, this hotel and restaurant has a deserved reputation for its dramatic setting and fine food. Guest rooms (with whirlpools) look out over the lower forested slopes. A café serves breakfast, lunch, and snacks while the dinner restaurant offers contemporary and classic cuisine featuring local produce. Trails from the lodge explore a mix of subalpine shrublands and dense forest.