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From Discovery and CruisingTo Advanced Mountaineering Expedition
Embark on an unforgettable and unique adventure through Queenstown's stunning landscapes with a selection of scenic day hikes that takes you across some of the region's most iconic trails. Begin your journey with the breathtaking Queenstown Hill, where panoramic views of the town, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding peaks await. Challenge yourself with the steep ascent of Ben Lomond for even more awe-inspiring vistas. Next, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Lake Rere Track, where lush forests and tranquil waters create the perfect escape into nature. Finish your journey with the Glacier Burn Track, where rugged terrain, dramatic mountain views, and rushing streams showcase the raw beauty of the Southern Alps. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking to explore Queenstown’s natural wonders, this trip promises to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
17kg of CO2-e PP per day
(69kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
Day 1
Arrive Queenstown. Option of walking Queenstown Hill (4.2kms, approx 3 hours)
Make your own way to Queenstown, New Zealand's Adventure Capital, where you will be able to check into your accommodation from 2.00pm. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to drop your bags off, and take up the option of walking up Queenstown Hill. Well formed paths on a steady incline bring you to a lookout with panoramic views over Lake Wakatipu. There are amazing photo opportunities and shaded areas to stop and catch your breath whilst you enjoy the stunning scenery. Return to your accommodation at your leisure. The evening is free to explore the many choices of restaurants available in town.
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Full day hike, Ben Lomond (11 km, 6-8 hours)
Start out early today with ample water, fuel and layers in your day pack. The Ben Lomond Track rewards trampers with spectacular panoramic views over Queenstown, Lake Whakatipu and the surrounding mountain ranges. These include Ka-kamu-a-Hakitekura/Cecil and Walter Peaks and Kawarau/Remarkables. The trail starts at the base of the gondola, on the Tiki Trail. Trees disappear at approximately 800 metres in altitude, but stunning views appear in their place. With a challenging ascent, the climb takes you to a 1326m elevation at the Saddle, and 1748m at the summit, where you will enjoy the rewards of spectacular 360 degree views over Queenstown. The Ben Lomond Track is a demanding climb, and we recommend that only strong hikers or walkers with alpine experience attempt the Summit section of this trail. Take a rest and capture some images before beginning the descent down to the Gondola, where the track continues down into Queenstown. If you wish to reduce the time or intensity of your hike today, you can begin and/or end your walk with a Gondola ride (own expense). On return to Queenstown, enjoy a relax and perhaps dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants or a burger at the famous Fergberger.
Day 3
Transfer to Lake Rere loop track, walk (14.3 km, 4-6 hours)
Meet with your transfer at approximately 8.00am this morning from Queenstown CBD, before travelling through to Kinloch. You will be able to drop off your bags, before being transferred to the Lake Rere loop track. Embark on a breathtaking journey through nature by taking the loop clockwise, starting with a scenic crossing over the bridge and following the marked route across Greenstone Station’s expansive paddocks. After an hour, you'll arrive at the stunning Elfin Bay, where the crystal-clear waters invite you to pause and take in the serene beauty. A climb through lush red beech forest leads you to the picturesque Lake Rere, a historical gem that was a popular destination for tourists in the late 19th century and perhaps the perfect spot for picnic lunch or a swim. The track continues through pockets of mountain beech and grassland, before joining the Greenstone Track to complete the second half of your walk. With abundant opportunities for photography and birdwatching, this track promises a memorable adventure. You will be collected from your starting point and transferred to your accommodation. Enjoy your 3-course dinner tonight and the surrounds of the retreat.
Meals: D
Day 4
Walk Glacier Burn Track (13.7 km, approx 5-6 hours)
This morning after breakfast, enjoy a short 3km walk from the lodge to the Glacier Burn Track, a portal to a rugged alpine world with stream crossings, ferns and blankets of moss, numerous waterfalls and and sheer rock walls. Take in panoramic views to the majestic Humboldt Mountains along the sparsely populated trail. After approximately two hours walking through gorgeous green bush you will arrive in Glacier Basin. If you follow the creek further up you’ll be treated to views of the Humboldt Mountains and the Glenorchy area, a great spot for a picnic and a rest. Take your time exploring the basin before heading back down the way you came; it’s not likely you’ll have to share the view as this is a light trafficked walk. Relax and soak away tired muscles in the outdoor hot tub this afternoon, then enjoy a delectable evening meal and the atmosphere of an authentic wilderness retreat.
Day 5
Transfer to Queenstown
This morning you can either choose to relax before your 1.00pm pick up - or you can head out to the Kinloch Nature Walk. After the more challenging walks over the past few days, this is a gentle walk and an unwind for your possibly well worked muscles. It's a 40 minute return either following the beaches/rocks along the shore or the trail through the beech forest through to Todd's cottage. Total distance from the retreat is around 2.5kms to the 2nd ford before you get your feet wet. A lovely way to end your visit. Transfer will collect you at approximately 1.00pm, with a return to Queenstown at approximately 3.45 pm (please note it is not a direct transfer and stops are made along the way). Trip arrangements will end on arrival in Queenstown. Please ask us if you are wanting to extend your stay with extra nights in Queenstown.
What's included
What's not included
Accommodation in Queenstown is based on twin/double share rooms with ensuite bathroom. All linen is supplied. Free Wifi is provided for guests. Rooms have coffee and tea making facilities, hair dryer, TV and are modern and comfortable. Location is just on the edge of the CBD, making it easy walking distance to the restaurants, cafes and shops.
We use heritage accommodation rooms from 1868 that have been lovingly restored to cozy, comfortable accommodation. There are 12 rooms in total at the lodge, sharing 2 very luxurious and spacious bathrooms. Rooms are cozy but luxurious with goose down duvets, cotton bathrobes, electric blankets, lake view terrace, private guest lounge, tea and coffee facilities. The grounds have plenty to offer including TV lounge with selection of board games, outdoor games and books, hot tub, fully equipped kitchen if you wish to self cater, onsite restaurant, dining area, boot dryer, laundry facilities and so much more. Bathrooms have hairdryers, toiletries and heaters for winter months.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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Our itineraries have been carefully designed and researched with you in mind. The logistics are handled for you allowing you the freedom to walk New Zealand at a level of your choosing and in your own stride.
A core Maori value exercising guardianship in relation to nature, flora and fauna and its people, ensuring that sustainability and environment are valued, respected and protected for future generations to enjoy.
As a small business ourselves, we love supporting and sharing New Zealand with other small and likeminded businesses and communities to showcase for you, what our land and people have to offer.
5Days
Introductory to Moderate
4Days
Moderate
6Days
Moderate to Challenging
Introductory