Having to live in vibrant Queenstown, I’ve come to cherish nearby adventures. I get it that holidays, especially after winding through South Island landscapes, can make long drives seem daunting.
Queenstown is surrounded by hidden gems for maximum enjoyment with minimal road time. From my experiences, I’m excited to share my top picks for day trips from Queenstown.
If you’re not seeking thrills in the adventure capital of New Zealand, here’s your roadmap to rewarding day escapades, with insider tips and off-the-beaten-path treasures near Queenstown. There’s something for everyone!
At A Glance
5 Top Full-Day Trips From Queenstown, New Zealand
1. Glenorchy, Queenstown
Buckle up for an epic quest along one of South Island’s most stunning drives – the road to Glenorchy. Despite exploring many scenic routes in New Zealand, this remains a favourite.
Every twist along the 45-minute drive reveals breathtaking scenery, resembling live postcards from Lake Wakatipu’s banks to the Southern Alps’ majestic peaks. You might even see Mount Earnslaw’s glacier, featured in Lord Of The Rings’ ‘The Two Towers’.
To me, this drive isn’t simply about getting from Point A to Point B and that’s what makes it fun! Along the way, there are many pit stops for you to stretch your legs and soak in the landscape.
Wilson Bay
Pack a picnic and a book for Wilson Bay, an ideal spot to relax with a stunning natural backdrop. Dip your toes in the chilly Lake Wakatipu for a refreshing moment! Consider revisiting Wilson Bay at night for stargazing away from city lights. Enjoy the stars in the sky with the soothing sound of the lake waves.
Moke Lake
Venturing off the beaten path unveils Moke Lake’s serene beauty, tucked away amidst rugged landscapes. It’s one of my top camping spots near Queenstown! The scenic drive includes gravel roads shared with local sheep and cows. On calm days, the lake mirrors stunning reflections.
While there’s a short loop walk around Moke Lake, skipping it to save time for Glenorchy is reasonable. I find that pausing by the lake is already a rewarding experience!
Bob’s Cove
A quick 30-minute hike to Picnic Point rewards you with stunning views of Lake Wakatipu. Before the steep climb to the viewpoint, you’ll pass a jetty for great Instagram shots. If you’re up for it, take a refreshing dip in the clear waters!
Despite being popular, Bob’s Cove still has the ability to give me a sense of hidden adventure and tranquility.
Bennetts Bluff Lookout
A brief stop here offers more than just a leg stretch; it’s a moment to truly absorb the stunning view of mountains against a calm lake. In my opinion, although you could view it from your car, standing at this lookout to feel the breeze and soak in the vast expanse of nature before you is special!
‘Lord of the Rings’ Locations
Join a tour or check these places out for yourselves and step into the shoes of your favourite characters amidst the scenery that brought Middle-earth to life.
Isengard Lookout, set in the Dart Valley, was the backdrop for the Wizards Vale. Enter Mount Aspiring National Park and find the Lothlorien Forest, an enchanted golden forest of ancient beech trees. You’ll understand why the elves fell in love with this place and decided to make it their home.
Horse Riding
Light Horse Adventures provides horse riding tours of varying lengths suitable for all ages and experience levels. The guided treks allow you to discover the landscapes of Glenorchy’s river systems.
I highly recommend The Wild River Experience, which includes thrilling river crossings.
Glenorchy Wharf
If you’re after a perfect spot to simply soak in the vibes of Glenorchy, sit by the lake by the highly Instagrammed and historic red shed beside the wharf.
This iconic location isn’t just a hit for its photogenic qualities but also serves as a tranquil spot to appreciate the views in Glenorchy. It’s a moment of peace, a break from all the adrenaline-fueled activities, where you can breathe in the fresh mountain air and just be.
Routeburn Track
For a grand adventure, head to Glenorchy early before setting off on the iconic Routeburn Track. This 3-day hike offers day-hiking options from lush meadows at Routeburn Flats to the elevated Routeburn Falls Hut.
The trek to Harris Saddle, a 6-10 hour round trip, unveils the beauty of Lake Harris and its waterfall. Although having hiked Routeburn Track twice, I’m always eager to explore its wonders again!
2. Wanaka, Queenstown
I see Wanaka as Queenstown’s quieter sister, offering similar stunning views of the Southern Alps. With a longer coastline, Wanaka provides space for you to retreat from crowds and connect intimately with nature by Lake Wanaka.
Enjoy a peaceful paddleboard session, a relaxed picnic, or a secluded reading spot with the lake as your backdrop – Wanaka’s vast coastline caters to all your needs!
Lake Hayes
Known as the “mirror lake,” Lake Hayes presents picturesque views with mountains reflected in its waters. During warmer months, enjoy a cool dip or try kayaking in its clear waters.
Arrowtown
Be transported to the gold rush era in Arrowtown. This historic town, by the gold-bearing Arrow River, features charming shops and leafy streets waiting to be explored. Take a stroll along the river trail to discover hidden spots where gold miners once worked.
Arrowtown is great for food and caffeine – I recommend Wolf Coffee Roasters for coffee, The Dishery for brunch, and Aosta for Italian cuisine. For artisan meats, don’t miss Royalburn Farm Store; their lamb sausages are a must-buy!
From Arrowtown, you can reach Wanaka in two ways: one via the historic Crown Range Road through Cardrona (1 hour) and the other through Cromwell (1.5 hours). To enjoy both stunning routes, you could go to Wanaka via one and return via the other.
The Crown Range Road, New Zealand’s highest main road, provides you with stunning views of the landscape. However, with its sharp turns and steep drops, this route is best avoided in rainy or alpine weather. Pop by the iconic Cardrona Hotel for a quick stop on your journey.
The second route, less direct, goes through the stunning Kawarau Gorge and Kawarau Bridge (where bungee jumping began!), and follows the Kawarau River to Wanaka. While passing through Cromwell, stop by the fruit orchards for delicious seasonal fruits. Jackson Orchards is my favourite stop as I think they make the best real fruit ice cream in the region.
I would recommend going cherry picking during the summer at Cheeki Cherries for unbelievably large and juicy cherries.
#ThatWanakaTree
I’ve been to Wanaka multiple times without actually paying the tree a visit. After all, I thought it was just a tree. However, finally taking a stroll down to that corner of the lake made me realise what the hype is about – you truly do get the best view of Wanaka from the tree.
The tree itself is pretty iconic: I don’t think you can say that you’ve been to Wanaka if you haven’t been to #ThatWanakaTree.
Red Bridge Berries
If you fancy a sweet adventure, why not pick fresh, juicy strawberries directly from the vine? The season runs till mid-autumn, so it’s best to keep an eye on their Facebook page for the perfect picking time.
If you haven’t had enough berries yet, indulge in their scrumptious real fruit ice cream which I personally think is New Zealand’s best dessert. Made on the spot, vanilla ice cream is crushed with real frozen berries of your choice.
Wanaka Lavender Farm
The best time to visit is summer (December to February) when the lavender fields are in full bloom. Stroll through vibrant lavender rows, the air sweet with fragrance and photo spots at every turn!
There are farm animals like alpacas, sheep, highland cows, and miniature horses and donkeys that both the young and old will enjoy. Before you leave, don’t forget to grab local honey products and enjoy their local sorbet ice cream!
Mount Aspiring National Park
About an hour’s drive from Wanaka, Mount Aspiring National Park is a nature lover’s dream consisting of endless mountains, glaciers, river valleys and alpine lakes.
I’d definitely recommend doing the walk to Aspiring Hut or the more famous Rob Roy Track for a easy, flat 3-4h return hike. Both tracks start at Raspberry Creek car park. Aspiring Hut takes you through a valley nestled between snow-capped mountains (Rob Roy Glacier peeks through at the start) and ends at the beautiful hut which has just been recently rebuilt.
Bring along food and a pot to whip lunch up at the hut (there are gas cookers there!), and enjoy it with the most spectacular view. The Rob Roy Track takes you through a beech forest, alpine vegetation and finally ends with an amazing view of the glacier.
If you’re up for a more challenging 4-hour to 6-hour return hike, the highly-instagrammed Roy’s Peak or Isthmus Peak are 2 options. While I prefer Isthmus to Roy’s Peak due to the varied terrain and sights of the hikes, Roy’s Peak has a very steep but well-paved path leading right to the top which makes technical experience unnecessary.
At the viewpoint, you’ll also be greeted with an orchestrated masterpiece of nature which seems too perfectly arranged. It’s no surprise that adventurers and Instagrammers alike flock here, many during sunrise to experience the way the light and clouds transform the view. Bring lots of sunscreen and water as this hike provides no shade at all.
The hike up Isthmus Peak immerses you in a landscape that changes as you ascend – from lush, grassy fields dotted with wildflowers to steep, rugged terrains that test your mettle. The trail is a mix of challenging inclines and serene flat stretches, allowing moments of recovery as you push towards the summit.
Reaching the top, you’re greeted with a 360-degree vista of Lake Hāwea to the east and Lake Wānaka to the west, a sight so breathtaking it seems like you’re standing between two worlds.
Wanaka Transport and Toy Museum
This quirky spot is a treasure trove of childhood memories and historical moments, housing an extensive collection in the Southern Hemisphere. Explore vintage cars, rare toys, and unexpected gems for a delightful detour in your Wanaka adventure.
Brunch at Local Cafes
After a morning of adventures, treat yourself to a delicious brunch at Wanaka’s top spots like Scroggin Coffee and Eatery and Kamino.
Enjoy robust coffee and irresistible cabinet food. For a great day, get a takeaway and head to the lake for a picturesque picnic, immersing yourself in Wanaka’s natural beauty.
3. Walter Peak, Queenstown
The day trip from Queenstown to Walter Peak Country Farm is like a journey blending the past and present. Cruise over the blue waters of Lake Wakatipu and step into a picturesque world of meadows, lambs, and a taste of kiwi farm life.
TSS Earnslaw
Stepping on the TSS Earnslaw felt like being the lead in a vintage film. Despite being a top Queenstown attraction, the ship retains its unique charm and old-world authenticity. It’s like a time capsule, untouched by modernity, offering the same experience as in 1912 when it first launched.
Amidst the engine’s hum and the waves, a pianist plays and sings nostalgic melodies which connect me to the scenery and its emotional beauty. With the setting, music, and company, it felt to me like I was living a dreamlike experience.
Walter Peak High Country Farm
Arriving at the farm, you step onto a lush green landscape dotted with various flowers and set against impressive mountains. From here, you can see Queenstown shimmering quietly in the sun in the distance.
There are different packages available, and the one I chose included a farm-to-table buffet showcasing New Zealand’s finest produce. It offers a variety of roasted meats, seafood, salads, cheeses, and desserts. My advice is to come hungry to fully enjoy Kiwi cuisine.
The farm show was fascinating, with the highlight being the intelligent and obedient sheepdog as it successfully herds at the farmer’s command. This engaging spectacle not only demonstrates sheep farming skills but also celebrates the country’s agricultural heritage in a lively manner.
4. Saint Bathans, Queenstown
I was recommended to check out Saint Bathans by a local who frequents it as a quiet weekend getaway.
About a 2-hour drive from Queenstown, Saint Bathans is known as a ghost town with a current population of 5-7 people, a stark contrast to the 2,000 miners in 1887. Most buildings date back to the gold rush era, with little change since then.
Blue Lake
Kildare Hill turned into a deep pit due to extensive mining activity. When mining stopped, the pit was filled with water, creating today’s beautiful lake. The water’s unique blue colour comes from minerals in the rocks, accentuated by white quartz columns. Locals and their dogs often swim and kayak in the blue waters on warm days. Walking the loop trail around the Blue Lake lets you explore the shapes of the quarried quartz crafted by miners long ago.
The Vulcan Hotel
An inn built in 1882, the Vulcan Hotel with its intriguing past and rustic charm offers a spot to unwind and soak in the atmosphere of a bygone era while sipping on a locally brewed ale or indulging in a pie. There are 4 rooms available for booking at the hotel, adorned with antique furnishings, if you’re up for an unforgettable stay at this historic haven.
5. Gibbston Valley, Queenstown
Heading to Gibbston Valley, a 35-minute drive from Queenstown, you’ll cruise along roads that wind through the stunning landscape.
Put on good tunes and get set for an afternoon of top-notch wines and tasty food! I love doing this as a group activity whenever friends and family visit.
If you need a designated driver, try the Hop On Hop Off Wine Tour from Queenstown to visit vineyards at your leisure. On the way back to Queenstown, you could stop over at Arrowtown to end the day with a nice dinner
Mora Wines
Mora Wines & Artisan Kitchen is always my pick for a delicious lunch in the valley. Even the locals rave about Mora’s great lunch offerings. A good pairing with Mora’s signature wines makes for an effervescent start to your Gibbston Valley adventure.
Kinross
Another excellent dining choice is Kinross Bistro, with a menu inspired by Gibbston Valley’s seasonal produce, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage. This winery in the valley offers a selection of wines embodying the essence of the region.
Mt Rosa
With stunning views, this vineyard is a paradise for wine lovers. Enjoy fabulous wines, from bold pinot noirs to refreshing rieslings, in the charming tasting room overlooking vine-covered valleys.
Known for its laid-back vibe and friendly staff, Mt Rosa ensures a welcoming experience. Relax, savor, and complement it with a charcuterie board and truffle fries!
The Church
Step into the local church for a quaint experience. Its intimate setting offers a retreat from the day’s adventures. Here, enjoy the sunlight, chat, and a charcuterie board in peace. Soulful nourishment and wine exploration await within this cherished local landmark.
Chard Farm
Just when you think the valley has revealed all its treasures, Chard Farm beckons with its unique beauty. Perched on the edges of a dramatic gorge, this vineyard is a visual delight.
Buildings inspired by European wineries blend seamlessly with the rugged terrain, showcasing man’s craftsmanship in harmony with nature.
Note: The Hop On Hop Off Wine Tour shuttle bus doesn’t stop here.
Peregrine Wines
Remember to book ahead to admire this award-winning vineyard’s stunning design inspired by a Peregrine falcon’s wing. Marvel at the seamless blend of architecture and nature.
Enjoy a tasting journey of local varieties, each glass a tale of dedication and winemaking art. An adventure in elegance, a must for wine and architecture enthusiasts.
Nockie’s Palette
This special destination isn’t just about great wines; it’s where art and wine come together. Nockie’s Palette is a haven for artistic souls and wine enthusiasts. Colourful artworks complement their wines, sharing stories of passion. Explore the picturesque estate, also a popular wedding venue. Beauty, creativity, and winemaking blend for a memorable experience.
Gibbston Valley Winery
Often regarded as the most commercial of the stellar lineup, this winery offers tour experiences that are both enlightening and indulgent. Join the winery on their renowned cheese and wine tour where you get to literally delve deep into their spectacular wine cave, carved into the rocky hillside.
Brennan Wines
If you’re seeking an experience focused on exquisite wines rather than grand architecture, head to Brennan Wines. Nestled in a cozy corner of wine country, this boutique winery offers intimate tastings.
FAQs About Full-day Trips From Queenstown, New Zealand
What are the most popular full-day trips from Queenstown?
Some of the most popular full-day trips from Queenstown include excursions to Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, Fiordland National Park, Glenorchy, Wanaka, and the Central Otago wine region.
How long do full-day trips typically last?
Full-day trips from Queenstown usually last between 8 to 12 hours, depending on the destination and activities included in the itinerary.
What activities can I expect on full-day trips from Queenstown?
Activities vary depending on the trip but may include scenic cruises, nature walks, hiking, jet boating, wine tasting, and photography opportunities.
What should I bring on a full-day trip from Queenstown?
Essential items to bring on a full-day trip include comfortable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a camera, and any necessary medications.
Embark on a journey through this enchanting piece of New Zealand, where every corner holds a story waiting to be told. From rolling hills to serene lakes, each spot has its tale. And the best part? All this magic, including the stunning Milford Sound, is just a day trip from Queenstown.
Brace yourself for a day filled with wonder, from captivating sunrises beckoning adventure to starlit nights.
There’s so much to do around Queenstown. So, plan your holiday trip to New Zealand and brace yourself for days filled with wonder, from captivating sunrises beckoning adventure to starlit nights.
