Sample Itinerary
A 2 night itinerary that showcases the best of the region
Day 1
PM After a leisurely morning in Queenstown, make the 45 minute awe-inspiring drive to Glenorchy. This is one of the most scenic drives in the world! Stop at Bennet’s Bluff and take in the “million dollar view” across Lake Wakatipu to Pig and Pigeon Islands and the Humbolt Mountain Range. As you get closer to Glenorchy, you’ll begin to see the snowcapped peak of Mt. Earnslaw at the start of Mt. Aspiring National Park.
14:30 GLENORCHY WALKWAY
After getting settled in, explore Glenorchy. Start by taking in the 1-1.5hr return Glenorchy Walkway. This scenic loop walk starts 70 meters from the Lake House and is a pleasant flat stroll on a boardwalk through the Lagoon. Black swans, Piwakawakas (Fantails), Tuis and Korimakos (Bellbirds) can be enjoyed as you take in the fantastic views of Mt. Alfred. Finish the walkway with a stroll through town. Be sure to visit the Glenorchy Church, Library and Wharf Shed – all Glenorchy icons.
16:00 Return to the Lake House and freshen up for dinner
18:00 DINNER AT KINLOCH WILDERNESS RETREAT
Enjoy the stunning 26km drive at your own pace or organise boat transport with Queenstown Fishing (summer only) for a delicious homemade dinner. Watch as Glenorchy is bathed in golden light as the sun sets behind the Humbolt Moutains and enjoy a relaxed meal paired with local wine in a truly incredible setting. To make a reservation please click here.
20:00 Return to Glenorchy at your leisure. On cloudless nights, relax in the outdoor spa pool while gazing at the Milky Way, Orion and the Southern Cross. The skies can be so clear that you can see satellites moving across the sky and you may even see a shooting star or two!
Day 2
08:00 Get up early and enjoy the incredible Glenorchy sunrise with your freshly prepared breakfast to fortify you for the day ahead.
09:00 DART RIVER WILDERNESS SAFARI
This spectacular 1.5 hour Jet Boat journey takes you through the Dart’s ever-changing braided river system, where you’ll be thrilled by their Jet Boat’s capabilities, including jet spins, and awed by your surroundings. Breathtaking snow-capped mountains, ancient native forest, waterfalls and glacial valleys frozen in time will accompany your time on the river.
12:00 You’ll be hungry after your morning adventure so grab lunch at one of the locally owned businesses in Glenorchy. There are quite a few options for a small village, click here to see your options.
14:00 HORSE RIDING
You’ve seen the Dart River Valley by boat, now take in the scenery by horse back. There are rides available for all levels and you can choose from High Country Horses or Lighthorse Adventures, both located at the base of Mt Alfred.
17:00 Soak any weary muscles in one of the Lake House’s deep soaking tubs – you can even watch TV from the one in the ensuite!
19:00 Relax on the terrace and take in the lake and mountain views while eating dinner (bring some groceries from Queenstown for this), or head out and support local.
20:30 After your busy day, you’ll want to enjoy stargazing in the outdoor spa pool again tonight. If you time your visit right you can watch the moon rise from behind the mountains.
Day 3
08:00 – 09:30 After a fabulous night’s sleep, slip into your bathrobe and enjoy a hearty breakfast.
10:00 Get out and enjoy the great outdoors. With over 19 day walks in the area, our staff can recommend one that is the right length and right for your fitness level.
PM Enjoy the scenic drive back to Queenstown at your leisure.