The South Island makes quite a first impression. By the shores of Lake Wakatipu, it is a beautiful city that already seems quite immersed in nature. However, you yearn for a wilder experience. You reach the shores of Te Anau and begin your adventure with a spectacular flight by helicopter from Te Anau Township, over the hidden lakes to arrive at Luxmore Hut. Your walk begins in the alpine area then descends through magnificent beech forests. The hike ends at the sandy beach of Brod Bay, before returning to your lodge by the lake.
You set on the world-famous Milford Track. Departing from Milford Sound, you begin with a short boat ride to Sandfly Point. The walk meanders alongside the cascading Arthur River through lush rainforest to Giant's Gate Falls. This spectacular waterfall is best viewed from the large swing bridge spanning the river. There is much to see, from the ancient trees towering above to the vibrant ferns and mosses, plus the array of birdlife inhabiting this lush environment. You end this magical day with a cruise along Milford Sound, as you enjoy the geological drama of sheer cliffs, massive waterfalls, glaciers and rainforest.
You enjoy a guided walk to Key Summit on the renowned Routeburn Track Great Walk. This spectacular trail ascends through lush, temperate rainforest and onto a unique alpine herb field. On the summit, you experience panoramic views of mountains, alpine lakes, and deep, glacial carved bush clad valleys.
Doubtful Sound is a remote fjord on a grand scale that takes your breath away. You cruise across Lake Manapouri by ferry, then by coach across the Southern Alps over the Wilmot Pass into Doubtful Sound. The isolation of this place makes the fiord a very unique place few people get to experience. You spend the day exploring Doubtful Sound, the full length of the fjord all the way to the Tasman Sea. You make your way back to your lodge, where you enjoy a delicious meal by the shores of Lake Te Anau. You look back on the past few days: you’ve hardly spent a minute indoors!
Before departing, you enjoy a full day in Queenstown. You stay in a restored Victorian villa and the most exclusive hotel in town. From the décor to the gastronomy, this is just what you needed to recharge your legs and en your hiking adventure on a perfect note. After all, comfort is all the more delicious after you’ve spent a decent amount of sole out on the trails.
You fly out of Queenstown and continue your New Zealand experience, or connect with your international flight.
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