3 Best Bars in The Southern Alps and Fiordland, New Zealand

In winter, Bardeaux has that upscale mountain-après-ski atmosphere; even in summer there's a fair chance the fire will be roaring. There's a wide selection of whisky and wine, and they know how to fix you up a cocktail. It's a pleasing bar that's good for a quiet, intimate evening.

What goes on behind the Blue Door? Whisky, wine, and cocktails, served by knowledgeable and chatty (when it's quiet) staff. Sit in a dark corner near the fire, or at the bar. Set in a beautiful old stone building with candles burning around the room, it's the perfect place for a nightcap before walking back to your accommodation.

If you want a late bite and a good bottle of wine, pop into The Cow on Post Office Lane for good garlic bread, pizza, and spaghetti. It's a very comfortable place, modeled in local stone and heavy timber, just like the original Cow in nearby Queenstown. In winter, the open fireplace does an incredible job of warming the bones (and the wine). Feel free to add commentary to their restroom chalkboard walls.