Nearby Fox Glacier village, nestled within an old growth forest within the Westlands National Park lies Lake Matheson. This is arguably New Zealand’s most famous scenic location, and is one of the most picturesque “mirror” lakes in the world.
There is a fairly easy walking track circling the lake here, and on a clear calm day (which we were lucky to get on our walk!) you are treated to stunning reflected views of New Zealand’s highest mountains – Aoraki Mount Cook and Mount Tasman – in the far distance.
There are several viewing points along the way, each offering different angles on the incredible view. From the trailhead you can see the Southern Alps mountain range in the distance (complete with a helpful outdoor frame):
Then you circle the lake itself, with the spectacular reflections all along the way:
Hopefully the pictures and video here can do some justice to this wonder!