Relax in style and comfort 

Soak up the views in a mountain paradise

* panoramic images courtesy of Si Williams

Lake Wanaka - Your Home For the Merino Muster

Wanaka, nestled at the base of Mt Aspiring National Park is the closest town to Snow Farm.  This laid-back mountain town, 45 minutes from Snow Farm, is home to numerous professional athletes and Olympians.  It's also blessed with incredible scenery and fantastic winter weather, being in the rain shadow of the Aspiring mountains range. Wanaka XC's Merino Muster accommodation is located 300 m from the town centre and has gorgeous views of the lake and surrounding mountains.  What better pace to relax in after a great day skiing Snow Farm?

We have designed our itinerary to give you opportunity to explore the Wanaka's attractions and are happy to help you with advice. Wanaka XC will also take you to sightseeing locations around the town during the week using our mini bus. It all makes exploring Wanaka that much easier.

Rest, recovery and relaxation are not only key components of any good training plan, they're vital ingredients for your general well-being too. That's why at Wanaka XC we've placed great emphasis on ensuring high levels of rest and relaxation are experienced, especially in the lead up to the race, so that you feel ready for race day. 

We return to Wanaka after skiing before 4 pm, so there is plenty of time to take a walk around town before dinner.
For our ski stay we will aim to be back in Wanaka.

For the full itinerary take a look at our ski program and swim program.

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For the 2025
Merino Muster

IMMACULATE and COMFORTABLE

Wanaka XC Accommodation for 8-10 skiers

"Kylie's Castle" is our chosen accommodation because of its location, views, modern and stylish fit out. The house has been designed with relaxation in mind, ticking both the privacy boxes along with providing ample space for our group entertainment activities.  Tucked away in a quiet street, this house has stunning views of Lake Wanaka and the stunning snow-capped mountains from upstairs and downstairs lounges and decking.

With views of Lake Wanaka it's perfect for post-training relaxation and watching from the balcony as the sun sets over Mount Aspiring National Park.  You can enjoy the two minute leisurely stroll across the park to the wonderful cafes and diverse restaurants and great shopping in the Wanaka town centre.

Sleep

The 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms will comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests in style. There are two king size double rooms, two queen size double rooms and a twin room.

We don't have a single supplement policy - but we can help you if you are interested in arranging a twin share with another of our guests.

Relax

The Wanaka XC Merino Muster package also includes an (optional) sports massage delivered by expert therapist in the comfort of the accommodation. Massages are normally scheduled for Wednesday or Thursday evenings. Some guest love the service so much that they opt to book additional massages later in the week.

Eat, drink, replenish

We use Wanaka's fine and fresh local produce to fuel you with the ultimate nutrition during your week*.

Breakfast is in your own time - some choose to start their day with a coffee from one of our amazing cafes in town - others help themselves to all the breakfast provision we provide at the accommodation. If there's something you'd like, let us know and we'll do our best.

Packed Lunch is made by yourselves from the provisions we have at the accommodation. This gives you the flexibility to take what you want to eat for each ski day (note there are limited food options at Snow Farm). Again, we are flexible and can provide what you would like.

Evening Meal is cooked and served by Nicole and Tim at your accommodation on all days apart from Thursday's Merino Muster Dinner at the Lake Wanaka Centre. Our dinners are simple, healthy and hearty affairs. We are often told that the evening dinners are the social highlight of the week, with the group really enjoying the shared camaraderie of international cross country ski enthusiasts.

* if you've dietary concerns don't worry, we can accommodate you. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

* panoramic images courtesy of Si Williams