Itinerary
The Hollyford Wilderness Experience is a 4-day/3-night all-inclusive adventure exploring the remote and spectacular Hollyford Valley, which has remained largely untouched for thousands of years.
Begin your adventure by travelling from Queenstown to the lakeside town of Te Anau on a private coach^ to attend a comprehensive pre-departure briefing. Your knowledgeable guides will talk you through all you need to know before setting off, what to include in your tramping pack and the chance to answer any questions you may have.
Mix and mingle over dinner with your fellow walkers before settling into your hotel room for the evening.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before taking a private coach into the remote Hollyford Valley to begin your Wilderness Experience.
On this first day within the valley you will walk 19.5km exploring hidden waterfalls, wandering through ancient native bush in awe of the plethora of green shades around you. Learn about the unique flora and fauna and hear tales of those who roamed the paths of the Hollyford before you.
Finish the day at Pyke Lodge, nestled beneath Mt. Madeline, where your welcoming lodge hosts and an impressive three-course meal awaits. Celebrate the achievements of the day over a glass of Central Otago wine or a locally produced craft beer.
Start your day with a plentiful breakfast at Pyke Lodge before heading out on a short walk to Wāwāhi Waka (Lake Alabaster), on your way back stop at the infamous Pyke bridge – the longest swing bridge in Fiordland National Park.
Embark by jet boat down the Hollyford River and across Lake McKerrow to the podocarp forest where you’ll encounter thousand-year-old rimu, kahikatea and totara giants. As you edge closer to the rugged West Coast, ancient forests will transform into coastal gardens, and a bay of boulders where you’ll marvel at the local Fiordland crested penguins and New Zealand fur seals.
Arrive at your home for the night at Martins Bay lodge where your three-course meal and toast in celebration of the vast array of vistas encountered today awaits.
After another hearty cooked breakfast, you will be ready to embark on your final walking leg of the Hollyford journey, exploring Martins Bay Spit which separates the Hollyford Valley from the Tasman Sea.
Explore the sand dunes and wander along the isolated beach at your own pace, taking in the rugged beauty of the wild West Coast. Return to Martins Bay Lodge to embark on your scenic helicopter flight back through the iconic and dramatic Milford Sound. Marvel at the grandeur of vertical granite cliff faces and breathtaking waterfalls hidden away in the lush native forest.
Upon arrival into Milford Sound, your friendly coach driver will be awaiting to drive you back to Queenstown (or Te Anau if desired) via the impressive Milford Road.
^ You have the choice to self-drive yourself and start and finish your tour in Te Anau if you prefer.
