8 Day Southern Escape

Today perhaps take one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys aboard the TranzAlpine train (own expense) – crossing the Canterbury Plains and travelling up into the Southern Alps to Arthur’s Pass. Or, absorb the picturesque rural scenery before beginning the ascent into the Main Divide. Continue along the coast to Westland Tai Poutini National Park and see Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier. Over thousands of years these remarkable natural wonders have created immense glacial valleys. Today, their magnificent rivers of ice can be seen cascading down through the lush rainforests.

Stay: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier (B, D)

Experience one of the world’s top train trips aboard the TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass. Select option when requesting your quote.

Additional Cost: $NZ 185 pp

Travel across the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps this morning, through spectacular Haast Pass, skirting the tranquil shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea to the alpine resort of Queenstown on Lake Wakatipu. Special Stay – settle in for a two-night stay admiring the dramatic backdrop of towering mountains capped in snow overseeing the calming blue waters of Lake Wakatipu. Delicious food is always on the menu in Queenstown as it is renowned for its world-class culinary scene. This evening, during time at leisure, you may like to dine at one of the many local restaurants located within the heart of the city.

Stay: Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview (2 nights) (B)

Ride the Skyline Gondola 450 metres above the city to the top of Bob’s Peak for a buffet lunch at the Stratosfare Restaurant. All of Queenstown spreads below you. The rest of the day is at leisure, so why not try one of our Select Experiences? Join the TSS Earnslaw for a cruise to Walter Peak Station, offering an insight into farming life in New Zealand’s high country, or take an exhilarating Shotover Jet Boat ride (both at own expense). This evening, perhaps tantalise your tastebuds as you discover Queenstown’s thriving foodie scene. (B, L)

Today, follow The Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu to Fiordland National Park. Journey along Milford Road, renowned as one of the world’s best alpine drives, to Milford Sound. Step aboard a ship to cruise the full length of this beautiful fiord, viewing the cascading waterfalls, dense rainforest and towering mountains that surround this World Heritage-listed area.

Stay: Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau (B, D)

Leaving the Fiordland region, journey through rolling Southland countryside to Dunedin. New Zealand’s oldest city is of Scottish heritage and possesses a unique combination of cultural riches and fine architecture. Next, head to Larnach Castle. Steeped in scandal and tragedy, filled with magnificent antiques and offering breathtaking views, Lanarch Castle provides a memorable holiday highlight.

Stay: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City (B, D)

Journey along the east coast to see the Moeraki Boulders. These large spherical stones were formed over 60 million years ago and can be found along a stretch of Koekohe Beach. Continue to Ōamaru to see some of New Zealand’s finest nineteenth century architecture. Afterwards admire the mountains of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park on the shores of Lake Tekapo. Tonight dine on fresh local produce at your hotel’s restaurant during a farewell dinner.

Stay: Peppers Bluewater Resort, Lake Tekapo (B, D)

En route to Christchurch today you’ll pay a visit to the tiny Church of the Good Shepherd, built of locally gathered stone and oak and erected as a tribute to the early pioneers of the region. Our tour concludes on arrival at Christchurch Airport. (B)