Hollyford
3 Day Wilderness Journey
The Hollyford 3 Day Wilderness Journey is an all inclusive
spectacular walk from the mountains to the sea that is suitable for
a wide range of fitness levels. Unlike any other walk, the scenery
is geologically spectacular and ever changing - snow capped
mountains, glaciers, rainforests, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, reefs,
sand dunes and surf. The experiences are diverse- hiking, wildlife
interaction, historical tales, jet boating, and a magnificent scenic
flight to Milford Sound.
Included in the package is return transport from
Queenstown or Te Anau to the track, meals, snacks, accommodation, and use of
backpacks and rain jackets. Accommodation is in our
well appointed
lodges with twin share rooms. Our expert guides will ensure your
group (maximum 16 people) experience New Zealand's wilderness at its
best. The season operates from late October through to April.
Pre Departure Briefing
Your pre departure briefing begins at 6
pm. This is a chance
for you to meet your guide and fellow walkers. Your guide will
"walk" you through the next three unforgettable days, on the Hollyford Track. Backpacks
will be provided at this briefing to those who require them. The pre
departure briefing takes place at R & R Sports Queenstown (corner of Camp & Shotover streets) or at The Luxmore Hotel if staying in Te
Anau.
Day One: Waterfalls, Pyke River Lodge, Glow Worms
Depart Queenstown by 7am, travel along side the beautiful
Lake Wakatipu and on to Te Anau. Those starting
in Te Anau join the trip at 9 am. After a brief stop, depart for the Hollyford Valley and travel through the majestic Eglington Valley to
the start of the Track in the Hollyford Valley visiting Gunn's Camp
museum on the way. Then re-trace the footsteps of early explorers
along the Hollyford River to Pyke River Lodge. As the Track
undulates gently through native beech forest and beside tumbling
waterfalls enjoy interesting historical tales and interpretation of
the forest and bird life. In the evening you can visit our nearby
glow-worm colony.
Walking Distance: Approx 17kms (12miles).
Day Two: Lakes, Jet Boating, 1000
Year Old
Trees
and Wildlife Experience
Begin your day with a short walk to Lake Alabaster and learn
of the history and geology of the area whilst in the midst of
stunning surroundings. Cross Fiordland's longest swing bridge and
then enjoy a captivating jet boat journey down the Hollyford River
and across Lake McKerrow to the historic site of Jamestown,
the intended capital of the South Island in the late 19th
century.
Walk through the ancient Podocarp forest (New Zealand native pines)
with huge Rimu, Totara and Kahikatea trees wrapped in massive Rata
vines. Then
visit the fur seal colony at Long Reef on the wild West Coast. You
may see the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin. Spend
the night at Martins Bay Lodge.
Walking Distance: Approx 12kms (7miles).
Day Three: Martins Bay Beach and Coastline
/Scenic Flight to Milford Sound
Travel by jet boat to
the beach and explore the seven kilometre Martins Bay Beach,
sand dunes and lagoon. Learn about its history and its plant, sea
and bird life. Return to Martins Bay Lodge and then enjoy a scenic
flight to Milford Sound, with views of the Track route, Hollyford
Valley and Mt Tutoko, Fiordland's highest peak. Board your coach for
your return journey to Queenstown or Te Anau
with stops of interest along the
way. Arrive back in Te Anau by 5 pm and
Queenstown by approximately 7.30 pm.
There is an option at additional cost to cruise Milford Sound if you
wish.
Walking Distance: Approx 8
kms (5 miles).
