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High Country Escape

The mountains are calling...

This breathtaking 5-day getaway combines the most beautiful hikes, the freshest meals and the most extraordinary locations where few get to go. Venture on to a working high-country sheep farm and experience an enchanting dinner in a historic location, while enjoying a unique craft beer tasting with our local brewmaster.

Experience the magic of the famous Routeburn Track and hike alongside the mountain-fed waters of the Dart River. Visit a 130-year-old high- country working farm set in the spectacular alpine environment, where you will gain real insights into country life. We’ll enjoy some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes, including locations used for several well-known films such as Lord of the Rings, Narnia, Wolverine, and The Hobbit

Indulge in a fireside drink followed by menus that change seasonally and showcase local foods prepared by our world-renowned chefs. At the end of the day, you can look forward to relaxing in our beautifully crafted homestead lodge and your quiet, private ensuite chalet.

Our legendary door-to-door personal service promises to create a getaway unique and memorable, that gives your soul the restorative, wide-open adventure you’ve been craving.

Upcoming trip dates

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per person (twin share) from
$5825 NZD
$5825 NZD
4 nights
Trip Highlights: 
  • Hike part of the stunning Dart River track with your private guide
  • Visit an historic high-country sheep farm with stunning scenery
  • Enjoy a beautiful day in the beech forest on the famous Routeburn Track
  • Experience a magical dinner at the historic Paradise Trust
  • Indulge in food prepared daily by our world-renowned chefs
  • Taste craft beer with our local star brewmaster
  • Hike at Whakaari overlooking the breathtaking river deltas
  • Unwind in our peaceful private chalets with king bed & ensuite
  • Enjoy optional daily gentle yoga classes

Please note that minimum numbers apply to all getaways and prices may vary based on departure season.

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Your all-inclusive trip features:

Your trip features:

Hiking
Premium Eco Lodging
Tree Planting
All Meals Included
Yoga
Craft Beverages
Local Guides
Transport
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Rates & Inclusions

Pricing is per person (twin share, in a one-bedroom chalet). Single spots are available on paying a NZ$800 supplement.


- Four nights' accommodation
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks)
- A pre-dinner drink and canapes
- Return Transport from Queenstown Airport or CBD
- All soft drinks / Barista coffee
- Full day guided walk on Routeburn Track
- Full day guided walk in the Dart Valley
- High Country Sheep Station tour
- Craft beer tasting with local brewmaster
- One 60-minute massage
- Daily morning stretch & yoga class

A selection of local wines and beverages are available with dinner.

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Rates & Inclusions

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1: Your guide will pick you up at midday in Queenstown, or at the airport, before driving up to Glenorchy on one of the world’s most scenic lakeside drives! We’ll stop along the way to stretch our legs and take photos of the most spectacular mountain views along Lake Wakatipu. After lunch our expert guide will offer you a walking tour of Glenorchy, which includes the iconic Red Shed, the lagoon boardwalk, and surrounding wetlands full of birdlife. Or if you prefer, just relax in your private chalet and enjoy the serenity of The Headwaters Eco Lodge. The evening will commence with a pre-dinner drink before a sumptuous chef’s choice dinner featuring an assortment of the Otago region’s finest foods.
Included: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: After an optional morning yoga and stretching class, followed by a delicious breakfast, we’ll head off to hike one of our favourite walks. Enjoy a day on the breathtaking Routeburn Track within Mount Aspiring National Park. Your expert guide will walk at your pace, going only as far as you are comfortable, so you enjoy the spectacular snow-capped mountains of the Southern Alps. This alpine adventure takes you through ice-carved valleys with beautiful natural ancient native beech forest, waterfalls and river gorge. We return to The Headwaters Eco Lodge where you can enjoy some free time before coming back together in the evening for pre-dinner drinks Enjoy a relaxing evening with a pre-dinner drink and dinner followed by an optional short film.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Following a hearty breakfast, we’ll get ready for a high-country adventure, where you will hike around Mt Alfred for amazing views overlooking Isengard of Lord of the Rings fame. After a picnic lunch we will visit a 130-year-old high-country working farm set in the spectacular alpine scenery, where you will gain real insights into country life. We’ll take in a range of sights and landscapes, including locations used for several well-known films such as Lord of the Rings, Narnia, Wolverine, and The Hobbit. At the end of this unforgettable day, we’ll visit the historic lodge at Paradise - run by a charitable trust, Paradise is a 300-acre property recognised for its outstanding heritage significance and unspoiled natural beauty. We’ll enjoy pre- dinner drinks and canapés in the rustic setting of the old schoolhouse, including an intimate craft beer tasting experience with our local brewmaster. Dinner will follow, featuring the best of the region’s fresh local fare before heading back to our base for a well-deserved rest.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Today’s adventure features another of our favourite walks in one of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes. We’ll venture back into the heart of Mt Aspiring National Park for a beautiful beech forest hike that winds alongside the mountain-fed waters of the Dart River. Journey into the World Heritage area to experience the peace and serenity of a forest created thousands of years ago and untouched since the ice age. Our walk will take us along a deep valley floor, opening to mountainous peaks, alpine basins, and views you’ll never forget. After a picnic lunch along the trail, we'll make our way back through the luxuriant forest and broad river valleys. Back at the Headwaters Eco Lodge, where you can enjoy some relaxation time before pre-dinner drinks, followed by a farewell dinner and one last evening together.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5: Before we drive back to Queenstown, you have the option to take one last morning hike up the historic Whakaari Conservation Area to take in the view of the township from high on the site of the former scheelite battery. Or if you prefer, you'll have the opportunity to leave a piece of you in Glenorchy to come back to one day, by planting your very own native tree or shrub at our chosen restoration area - an incredible way to give back to the community. After your chosen activity, we’ll have morning tea before your guide returns you to Queenstown, retracing our steps on the most picturesque drive in the country. Arriving in Queenstown by midday, we’ll bid farewell...until next time!
Included: Breakfast and morning tea

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Itinerary

At the head of the lake, in the heart of the mountains

Stay in an elegantly appointed private chalet, inspired by our beautiful natural environment. The Headwaters Eco Lodge has been created from the ground up to delight and inspire our guests. Whether you’re an active adventurer or looking to relax, you’ll find stunning natural beauty, hand-crafted artistry and warm, welcoming Kiwi hospitality. With sustainable eco credentials at the heart of the property, the lodge & chalets are designed to be net positive in energy output while offering every modern convenience and luxury comfort in style.

- King bed with high quality linens
- Large ensuite bathroom with walk in rain shower
- Open year-round

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Accommodation

Location

Return transfers from Queenstown airport or Queenstown CBD are included, or you may choose to self-drive to your accommodation on Day 1 where lunch will await you.

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Location

Season & Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATE RETUN DATE PRICE (PER PERSON) AVAILABILITY
26 December 2024 30 December 2024 NZ$5825 4 spots
5 January 2025 9 January 2025 NZ$5825 4 spots
26 January 2025 30 January 2025 NZ$5825 4 spots
12 February 2025 16 February 2025 NZ$5825 2 spots
23 February 2025 27 February 2025 NZ$5825 6 spots
9 March 2025 13 March 2025 NZ$5825 4 spots
23 March 2025 27 March 2025 NZ$5825 8 spots
6 April 2025 10 April 2025 NZ$5825 8 spots
20 April 2025 24 April 2025 NZ$5825 8 spots
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Season & Departure Dates

There is so much to see and do in glenorchy

Unwind in your very own cabin at the award-winning The Headwaters Eco Lodge, and leave all the details to us. Your local guides will ensure everything is taken care of along the way so you don’t have to worry about a thing - your only job is to relish every moment and enjoy!

Book in confidence

We’re not in the business of creating worry or anxiety. In fact, quite the opposite. When booking our getaways you can be assured that:

  • Bookings are transferable across travellers. Can’t make it? Find a friend to take your spot.
  • Need to make a change? We're always just an email or phone call away. Rest assured we're here to serve.
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$5825 NZD
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This breathtaking 5-day getaway combines the most beautiful hikes, the freshest meals and the most extraordinary locations where few get to go. Venture on to a working high-country sheep farm and experience an enchanting dinner in a historic location, while enjoying a unique craft beer tasting with our local brewmaster.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rooms like?

Your Adventures in Paradise experience will be based at The Headwaters Eco Lodge. You'll be staying in one of our beautifully-appointed Chalets which each include a private ensuite bathroom with walk-in rain shower, a king-size or split-king single beds, your own covered verandah and lounge chairs to take in the breathtaking views, warm welcoming rustic décor and original artwork by local and NZ artists.

What are your sustainability credentials?

We like to think of Adventures in Paradise, and more broadly The Headwaters, as a regenerative operation; meaning our mission is to actively make things better than they currently are.

The Headwaters Eco Lodge, where you'll rest your head in blissful sleep each night, is a net positive accommodation provider, meaning we generate more energy than we use onsite each year. We also use 50% less water than similar facilities and are certified by the International Living Future Institute as meeting the imperatives of the Living Building Challenge, the most stringent environmental guidelines in the world!

We are committed to extending our regeneration principles to our Adventures in Paradise experiences, so you'll enjoy knowing that all your delicious food is healthy, locally sourced and free of additives. Your meals in the field are tasty and free of unnecessary packaging. And on the last day of each of our experiences there's also a unique opportunity to take active part in contributing to a community regeneration project.

Are there private bathrooms?

Yes! All our Eco-Chalets feature a private ensuite bathroom with walk-in rain shower, covered verandah and lounge chairs to take in the breathtaking views of Glenorchy and the surrounding mountains.

What services are available?

The Headwaters Eco Lodge's Chalets redefine 'luxury meets sustainability'! Here you'll relish relaxing into a range of modern comforts including heated floors, triple glazed windows, keycard entry, sound proof walls (they are amazing!), temperature-controlled fresh air exchange and fine natural-fiber linens and towels. Spa, laundry and state of the art drying room facilities are also available onsite. Free high-speed internet access is included, and while we'll be spending time during the day in remote areas that may have spotty or little coverage, mobile coverage at the Lodge and in the township is very good.

How do I make a booking?

Easy! Book online here or just get in touch and we will arrange your booking.

Can I change my booking?

Yes, once you've paid your deposit you can change your departure date or transfer to to any of our other getaways - provided you make this change before full payment is due (no later than 30 days before the departure date).

What's the cancellation policy?

To help preserve our ability to generate a profit, all of which goes to the Glenorchy Community Trust, our cancellation policy is as follows:

A deposit of 20% of the getaway price is required to confirm your booking. The deposit is fully transferable across all getaways and dates and is valid for 12 months.

The final balance for a getaway is due 30 days before the departure date. Cancellations more than 30 days before departure date will receive a full refund, less the 20% deposit.

- Cancellations made within 30 to 14 days of the trip’s departure date will incur a cancellation fee of 10% of the booking total.

- Cancellations made within 14 to 2 days of the trip’s departure date will incur a cancellation fee of 50% of the booking total.

- Cancellations made within 48 hours of the trip’s departure date will receive no refund.

See our full booking terms and conditions here.

Do you cater to a range of dietaries?

Yes! Anything goes - please let us know when you get in touch and we'll make sure your Adventures in Paradise chefs and guides can plan to meet any special needs.

Do you offer private or bespoke trips?

Absolutely! Our Getaways are a great option for a family or group of friends - if you'd like to go private, chat to us about our options.

What if I want a meal out or free time from the itinerary?

We’ve designed our Getaways with a sense of connection and community in mind, so we’ve included all meals with your like-minded fellow travellers. Because of our values and selection of activities, we tend to attract similar guests with aligned interests so you'll be in excellent company. We also pride ourselves on including absolutely everything during your trip to allow for the best value experience. Because Glenorchy is such a small village, there are limited dining options which is why we’re happy to provide our guests with delicious meals daily. In saying that, this is your trip of a lifetime so if you prefer to eat out one night, you’re certainly welcome to do so.

How do we get to Glenorchy?

If you're joining us on an Adventure in Paradise, your transportation will be convenient and hassle-free. We'll pick you up from Queenstown Airport or central Queenstown, and chauffeur you along one of the world's most beautiful drives to your destination as you take in the breathtaking views of your 45-minute journey alongside Lake Wakatipu.

What are the guides like?

Our guides are beautiful spirits! As you explore together, your guides will share their passion and knowlege about the area, the local flora and fauna, the fascinating history of Glenorchy and the head of the lake, and informative commentary throughout. They're humble, patient and worldly - they know how to tell a good story and they know this place like the back of their hand.

What else is there to do in the area?

You'll soon discover that the people of Glenorchy have created a wonderful lifestyle for themselves here at the head of the lake. We have plenty of additional hiking options to share with you, as well as a raft of other outdoor activities. Consider booking a few extra days to soak in the healthy mountain lifestyle. If you're keen to relax and make this a personal wellness retreat, that's available, and if you want to engage your creative side there are art and photography workshops. Head on over to our Headwaters Eco Lodge experiences page to learn more!

What's the cancellation policy?

To help preserve our ability to generate a profit, all of which goes to the Glenorchy Community Trust, our cancellation policy is as follows:

A deposit of 20% of the getaway price is required to confirm your booking. The deposit is fully transferable across all getaways and dates and is valid for 12 months.

The final balance for a getaway is due 30 days before the departure date. Cancellations more than 30 days before departure date will receive a full refund, less the 20% deposit.

- Cancellations made within 30 to 14 days of the trip’s departure date will incur a cancellation fee of 10% of the booking total.

- Cancellations made within 14 to 2 days of the trip’s departure date will incur a cancellation fee of 50% of the booking total.

- Cancellations made within 48 hours of the trip’s departure date will receive no refund.

See our full booking terms and conditions here.

What clothing will I need to bring?

Glenorchy is located at the head of the lake and the heart of the mountains. It's a beautiful and ever-changing alpine environment and as such, the weather can change quickly. We'll provide you with a comprehensive gear list well in advance of your Getaway. The main things to keep in mind are to layer breathable, quick-dry active wear for our daily activities, and to bring casual, comfortable clothing for relaxing at the lodge in the evening. A good sun hat, and a pair of well worn-in, lightweight hiking boots will also be essential.

Are children welcome on these Getaways?

Please chat to us if you'd like to organise a getaway with children under the age of 12.

When is the best time to visit Glenorchy?

We offer our experiences all year round, so there’s really no bad time to visit Glenorchy! Generally, the most popular times to visit are the summer and shoulder seasons; however, we love the winter here too: everything's a bit quieter and bright, cool, clear days are common, which makes for stunning photos.

Want to Walk a little slower, breathe a little deeper and sit a bit more comfortably in your chair?
Discover Glenorchy Getaways with Adventures in Paradise