If you're planning to stay in Franz Josef, Montrose Backpackers offers a large, friendly hostel with many amenities, often available to no charge. It's an ideal stopover for either budget-conscious travelers, or those looking for comfortable accommodation near the ice. While the towns and glaciers of Fox Glacier and Franz Josef are close and very similar, Franz Josef has slightly better amenities and entertainment options. Montrose is a large hostel that doesn't lose its identity or connection with guests.
The Location
Montrose is located at the end of a dead-end street on the south corner of town. It's easy to find, and you can park your car in the lot. The walk from the bus stop is about two blocks up the main road, and quite manageable even if you're carrying a bit of gear. On a clear day, you can see the glacier from the front porch. The Blue Ice bar and restaurant is literally next door, and has a backpacker special that includes a choice of several mains and a drink. The 4 Square grocery store is two blocks north on the main road. There are several other restaurants and cafes on this street as well, and the al fresco dining makes this a nice spot on warm evenings. The Franz Josef glacier guiding company is just around the corner from the hostel.
Rooms and Bathrooms
Montrose offers a wide range of room options, from private doubles to ten-bed dorms. All rooms come made up with bed sheets and duvets. Some of the private rooms have en-suite options available. All are good size, and the dorms do not feel cramped even when fully occupied. Every room locks. The bathrooms are clean, and there is ample room to change and get a good hot shower after a day on the ice. You can buy any toiletries you may have run out of or forgotten from the main office.
Common Spaces
There is no shortage of options when you're looking to mingle at Montrose. Outside, you've got the front porch with comfortable furniture, barbecue area, and sauna. Indoors, there's the free internet and CD-burning station; choice of two kitchens; or large, airy TV room. If you're looking for a bit of seclusion, you can do laundry in the coin-operated facilities or grab a book from the exchange and have a read with a complimentary cup of tea or coffee. This is a friendly, open hostel where it's easy to meet others, or just rest up for your next stop.
Summary
This is a great hostel, and a great value in glacier country. There's heaps to do in Franz Josef, from glacier walks to treks that you'll never be bored. Montrose offers a wide array of facilities and amenities that you won't find at other hostels. There's even an easy walk to see glowworms in the woods at night that starts just up the road. If you're staying near the ice, stay at Montrose.
— Exklusive Hostelz.com Übersicht
February 2009
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