OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
The Queen Charlotte Track is one of New Zealand’s best coastal walks. There are massive views over Queen Charlotte Sound and Kenepura Sound consistently as you walk just for starters. Then there’s contrast from the panoramic views as you hike under the gorgeous native forest canopy, among the many other highlights.
The Marlborough area has a well-deserved gourmet reputation, and quality accommodations, both of which work in concert to make a tremendously pleasurable supported walking experience. The accommodations on the track are located right on the water so even when you’re relaxing in the evening you feel as though you are still on the walk. The Marlborough area is famous for its wine and food, all of which are available on this walk. And if you really love wine, why not add a day at the end of the walk to explore the wineries and relax?
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Walk from Ship Cove to Torea Bay
- Explore the location where Captain Cook landed
- Wonder at the astronishing views over Queen Charlotte Sound
- The spectacular Furneaux Lodge
- The Eatwell lookout
- Water taxi pick ups
AT A GLANCE
TRIP LENGTH
5 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Easyto
Moderate PRICE FROM
$ 1020
per person twin/double shareSINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 345
per personITINERARY
DAY one
ARRIVE AT PICTON
The trip starts in Picton in the Marlborough area, we also pick up in Blenheim. Relax in comfort at your accommodation at the marina or take a walk around the foreshore. If you are contemplating walking Abel Tasman then we provide all transfers from the Abel Tasman Track or to and from Nelson (or nearby).
Walking: At your own leisure
Accommodation: Picton in ensuite rooms
DAY two
Ship Cove to Endeavour Inlet
Be transferred by water to your drop-off point at Ship Cove at the start of the Queen Charlotte Track. Explore the location where Captain Cook landed 5 times and met with the South Island Maoris and the Cook memorial that celebrates these voyages. Within minutes of beginning the walk we are walking through an old-growth forest. There’s a 1000-year-old Rimu tree to admire and there’s plenty of time to enjoy the lookouts and the views over Queen Charlotte Sound. We walk via Schoolhouse and Resolution Bays on our way to Endeavour Inlet and your stunning accommodation. Each day we walk in and out of your fabulous accommodation with your luggage seamlessly transported ahead which you’ll find waiting in your room.
Walking: Moderate / 15.6 km / 4 – 5 hrs
Elevation: +993m / -997m / max height 257m
Meals: Breakfast, walkers’ lunch and dinner at the accommodation
Accommodation: Furneaux Lodge in an ensuite room
DAY three
Endeavour Inlet to Southside Endeavour Inlet just past Big Bay
This is the easiest of all the days but no less rewarding. With time up your sleeve, you can wake late and enjoy the sound of the forest and the surrounds of the spectacular Furneaux Lodge. Wander to the back of the lodge and explore the forest complete with a plethora of Rimu trees. The track today skirts around Endeavour Inlet with views of the inlet virtually the whole way. Thick native forest, lush coastal vegetation and Ponga ferns set into deep gullies make the walk worth every step, particularly as tonight’s accommodation is just as good as the previous nights.
Walking: Easy / 12 km / 3 – 4 hrs
Elevation: +565m / – 569m / Max Height 76m
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and dinner at the accommodation
Accommodation: Either Punga Cove or Mahana in ensuite rooms
DAY four
Big Bay, Endeavour Inlet to Cowshed or Torea Bay
This is the big day and our final walk, but devoid of any real incline so easily doable. Be prepared to be awestruck by the recurring views over Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds as you skirt across the escarpment. Whoever designed this track was a walker, because the track takes full advantage of the landscape’s scenic appeal. From time to time there are sections thick with beech and tree ferns, creating a welcoming cocoon-like experience. The highlight of this day is the consistency of gorgeous scenery this track has to offer. Of special note, however, is Eatwell lookout and its 360-degree views over Endeavour Inlet and the Bay of Many Coves. Be picked up by water taxi and taken back to Picton. If you wish to get away tonight let us know and we will reimburse you for the last night’s accommodation.
Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 23.5 km / 7 – 8.5 hrs
Elevation: + 1288m / -1277m / Max height 469m
Meals: Breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Picton Yacht Club in ensuite rooms
DAY five
PICTON AND ONWARD JOURNEY
A relaxed morning may include a further explore of Picton or the Marlborough wine-growing region. From Blenheim, it is possible to do a tour of the wineries whilst you are here.
Meals: Breakfast
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Full access to the Queen Charlotte track in superb comfort.
- 4 nights accommodation, in beautiful lodge accommodations on the track
- Walk the track from Ship Cove to Torea Bay, all transfers on and off the track
- A la carte meals including 2-course dinners when on the track
- 4 breakfasts, 3 walkers lunches
- Comprehensive Stroll track notes
ACCOMMODATION & DINING
The highlight of the Queen Charlotte walk is staying and eating in accommodations on the water right on the track itself. All of the accommodations are of high quality but are enhanced by their position right on the Sound. It is the luxury of first-world living at its best that makes this trip as popular as it is. You’ll be warmly welcomed by all of our hosts who are ready to assist in any way they can.
NIGHTS 1,4 & 5
PICTON YACHT CLUB HOTEL (or something equivalent)
This accommodation looks right over the gorgeous marina and the ferry station from which you’ll depart tomorrow to start the walk. The restaurant also has the same views and there’s a large pool if you’re up for a swim. A great hotel location, being in the middle of town, giving you easy access to restaurants, shops and the wharf.
NIGHTS 1,4 & 5
PICTON YACHT CLUB HOTEL (or something equivalent)
This accommodation looks right over the gorgeous marina and the ferry station from which you’ll depart tomorrow to start the walk. The restaurant also has the same views and there’s a large pool if you’re up for a swim. A great hotel location, being in the middle of town, giving you easy access to restaurants, shops and the wharf.
NIGHT 2
FURNEAUX LODGE
Furneaux Lodge is located on 3 acres of manicured gardens right on the water, an oasis of luxury in the middle of the forest. Marlborough Sound at your doorstep and an a la carte restaurant makes for a great place to rest and soak up the tranquil environment. Part of the beauty of this historic destination is the remoteness; there are no roads leading to Furneaux Lodge. The rooms have en suites and most have views of the sea.
NIGHT 2
FURNEAUX LODGE
Furneaux Lodge is located on 3 acres of manicured gardens right on the water, an oasis of luxury in the middle of the forest. Marlborough Sound at your doorstep and an a la carte restaurant makes for a great place to rest and soak up the tranquil environment. Part of the beauty of this historic destination is the remoteness; there are no roads leading to Furneaux Lodge. The rooms have en suites and most have views of the sea.
NIGHT 3
PUNGA COVE RESORT (or Mahana Lodge)
Experience the native New Zealand bush and the crystal clear sparkling water of the Marlborough Sound. The fully licensed restaurant has breathtaking views of the entire Endeavour Inlet. Or relax at the Boatshed Cafe & Bar on the jetty. The rooms have en suites and most have views of the sea.
NIGHT 3
PUNGA COVE RESORT (or Mahana Lodge)
Experience the native New Zealand bush and the crystal clear sparkling water of the Marlborough Sound. The fully licensed restaurant has breathtaking views of the entire Endeavour Inlet. Or relax at the Boatshed Cafe & Bar on the jetty. The rooms have en suites and most have views of the sea.
NIGHT 3
PUNGA COVE RESORT (or Mahana Lodge)
Experience the native New Zealand bush and the crystal clear sparkling water of the Marlborough Sound. The fully licensed restaurant has breathtaking views of the entire Endeavour Inlet. Or relax at the Boatshed Cafe & Bar on the jetty. The rooms have en suites and most have views of the sea.
GENERAL INFO
AVAILABILITY
This trip is available all year round. We do however suggest trying to avoid January and February when the area gets very crowded with holidaymakers. There is a surcharge at this time and the walking temperature is slightly warmer, however, it’s New Zealand so there’s no need to worry unless you are really susceptible to heat. Spring (September to December) and autumn (March to May) are excellent times to walk from a temperature perspective.
WALKING
This track is undulating, well-graded and without much incline or decline. Walks average about 17 km a day and have some elevation please check itinerary days. There’s always time to walk and explore further if you’re up to it. There’s also time to relax and enjoy all of the lodges and hotels’ gorgeous surroundings on the Sound.
GETTING THERE AND AWAY
There are many ways to get to and from the track. If you have the time it might suit you best to mix the methods of travel in order to facilitate the best experience.
- By car, you can drive to Picton from anywhere in New Zealand. It makes the most sense to fly to Christchurch in order to facilitate a ‘drive and explore’ of the east coast, namely Kaikoura and Akaroa (Banks Peninsula).
- Fly to Wellington and get an onward flight to Blenheim where we can pick you up. This is the fastest method.
- Fly to Wellington and take the ferry which arrives right next to your hotel in Picton.
- Fly to Christchurch and catch the Coastal Pacific train to Picton, a train journey that’s touted as being one of the greatest train journeys in the world. From the train station, it’s a short 3 to 4-minute walk to your hotel. Highly recommended.
- Get an onward flight to Nelson from all the major centres, where it is possible to get a private transfer. This is one of the best transport options for the Abel Tasman walk. If you do the Abel Tasman walk with us we will handle all the transfers on both trips to and from the tracks to Nelson or close by.
WEATHER
December through February is usually warm to hot with excellent swimming weather. But as mentioned please book well in advance for January and February due to the summer school holidays. March through May and September to November are usually cooler, with long sunny days, perfect for walking.
See the New Zealand Meteorological Service for information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.
INSURANCE
We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.
For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.
We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office. See the FAQ section for more information.
INFORMATION PACK
For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.
CONTACT
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form or email us at info@Stroll.com
MAP
AT A GLANCE
5 DAYS
Easyto
Moderate
$ 1020
per person twin/double share
$ 345
per person
TRIP LENGTH
5 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Easyto
Moderate PRICE FROM
$ 1020
per person twin/double shareSINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 345
per person
Overview
The Queen Charlotte Track is one of New Zealand’s best coastal walks. There are massive views over Queen Charlotte Sound and Kenepura Sound consistently as you walk just for starters. Then there’s contrast from the panoramic views as you hike under the gorgeous native forest canopy, among the many other highlights.
The Marlborough area has a well-deserved gourmet reputation, and quality accommodations, both of which work in concert to make a tremendously pleasurable supported walking experience. The accommodations on the track are located right on the water so even when you’re relaxing in the evening you feel as though you are still on the walk. The Marlborough area is famous for its wine and food, all of which are available on this walk. And if you really love wine, why not add a day at the end of the walk to explore the wineries and relax?
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Walk from Ship Cove to Torea Bay
- Explore the location where Captain Cook landed
- Wonder at the astronishing views over Queen Charlotte Sound
- The spectacular Furneaux Lodge
- The Eatwell lookout
- Water taxi pick ups
Itinerary
DAY one
ARRIVE AT PICTON
The trip starts in Picton in the Marlborough area, we also pick up in Blenheim. Relax in comfort at your accommodation at the marina or take a walk around the foreshore. If you are contemplating walking Abel Tasman then we provide all transfers from the Abel Tasman Track or to and from Nelson (or nearby).
Walking: At your own leisure
Accommodation: Picton in ensuite rooms
DAY two
Ship Cove to Endeavour Inlet
Be transferred by water to your drop-off point at Ship Cove at the start of the Queen Charlotte Track. Explore the location where Captain Cook landed 5 times and met with the South Island Maoris and the Cook memorial that celebrates these voyages. Within minutes of beginning the walk we are walking through an old-growth forest. There’s a 1000-year-old Rimu tree to admire and there’s plenty of time to enjoy the lookouts and the views over Queen Charlotte Sound. We walk via Schoolhouse and Resolution Bays on our way to Endeavour Inlet and your stunning accommodation. Each day we walk in and out of your fabulous accommodation with your luggage seamlessly transported ahead which you’ll find waiting in your room.
Walking: Moderate / 15.6 km / 4 – 5 hrs
Elevation: +993m / -997m / max height 257m
Meals: Breakfast, walkers’ lunch and dinner at the accommodation
Accommodation: Furneaux Lodge in an ensuite room
DAY three
Endeavour Inlet to Southside Endeavour Inlet just past Big Bay
This is the easiest of all the days but no less rewarding. With time up your sleeve, you can wake late and enjoy the sound of the forest and the surrounds of the spectacular Furneaux Lodge. Wander to the back of the lodge and explore the forest complete with a plethora of Rimu trees. The track today skirts around Endeavour Inlet with views of the inlet virtually the whole way. Thick native forest, lush coastal vegetation and Ponga ferns set into deep gullies make the walk worth every step, particularly as tonight’s accommodation is just as good as the previous nights.
Walking: Easy / 12 km / 3 – 4 hrs
Elevation: +565m / – 569m / Max Height 76m
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and dinner at the accommodation
Accommodation: Either Punga Cove or Mahana in ensuite rooms
DAY four
Big Bay, Endeavour Inlet to Cowshed or Torea Bay
This is the big day and our final walk, but devoid of any real incline so easily doable. Be prepared to be awestruck by the recurring views over Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds as you skirt across the escarpment. Whoever designed this track was a walker, because the track takes full advantage of the landscape’s scenic appeal. From time to time there are sections thick with beech and tree ferns, creating a welcoming cocoon-like experience. The highlight of this day is the consistency of gorgeous scenery this track has to offer. Of special note, however, is Eatwell lookout and its 360-degree views over Endeavour Inlet and the Bay of Many Coves. Be picked up by water taxi and taken back to Picton. If you wish to get away tonight let us know and we will reimburse you for the last night’s accommodation.
Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 23.5 km / 7 – 8.5 hrs
Elevation: + 1288m / -1277m / Max height 469m
Meals: Breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Picton Yacht Club in ensuite rooms
DAY five
PICTON AND ONWARD JOURNEY
A relaxed morning may include a further explore of Picton or the Marlborough wine-growing region. From Blenheim, it is possible to do a tour of the wineries whilst you are here.
Meals: Breakfast
What’s Included
- Full access to the Queen Charlotte track in superb comfort.
- 4 nights accommodation, in beautiful lodge accommodations on the track
- Walk the track from Ship Cove to Torea Bay, all transfers on and off the track
- A la carte meals including 2-course dinners when on the track
- 4 breakfasts, 3 walkers lunches
- Comprehensive Stroll track notes
Accommodation & Dining
The highlight of the Queen Charlotte walk is staying and eating in accommodations on the water right on the track itself. All of the accommodations are of high quality but are enhanced by their position right on the Sound. It is the luxury of first-world living at its best that makes this trip as popular as it is. You’ll be warmly welcomed by all of our hosts who are ready to assist in any way they can.
NIGHTS 1,4 & 5
PICTON YACHT CLUB HOTEL (or something equivalent)
This accommodation looks right over the gorgeous marina and the ferry station from which you’ll depart tomorrow to start the walk. The restaurant also has the same views and there’s a large pool if you’re up for a swim. A great hotel location, being in the middle of town, giving you easy access to restaurants, shops and the wharf.
NIGHTS 1,4 & 5
PICTON YACHT CLUB HOTEL (or something equivalent)
This accommodation looks right over the gorgeous marina and the ferry station from which you’ll depart tomorrow to start the walk. The restaurant also has the same views and there’s a large pool if you’re up for a swim. A great hotel location, being in the middle of town, giving you easy access to restaurants, shops and the wharf.
NIGHT 2
FURNEAUX LODGE
Furneaux Lodge is located on 3 acres of manicured gardens right on the water, an oasis of luxury in the middle of the forest. Marlborough Sound at your doorstep and an a la carte restaurant makes for a great place to rest and soak up the tranquil environment. Part of the beauty of this historic destination is the remoteness; there are no roads leading to Furneaux Lodge. The rooms have en suites and most have views of the sea.
NIGHT 2
FURNEAUX LODGE
Furneaux Lodge is located on 3 acres of manicured gardens right on the water, an oasis of luxury in the middle of the forest. Marlborough Sound at your doorstep and an a la carte restaurant makes for a great place to rest and soak up the tranquil environment. Part of the beauty of this historic destination is the remoteness; there are no roads leading to Furneaux Lodge. The rooms have en suites and most have views of the sea.
NIGHT 3
PUNGA COVE RESORT (or Mahana Lodge)
Experience the native New Zealand bush and the crystal clear sparkling water of the Marlborough Sound. The fully licensed restaurant has breathtaking views of the entire Endeavour Inlet. Or relax at the Boatshed Cafe & Bar on the jetty. The rooms have en suites and most have views of the sea.
NIGHT 3
PUNGA COVE RESORT (or Mahana Lodge)
Experience the native New Zealand bush and the crystal clear sparkling water of the Marlborough Sound. The fully licensed restaurant has breathtaking views of the entire Endeavour Inlet. Or relax at the Boatshed Cafe & Bar on the jetty. The rooms have en suites and most have views of the sea.
NIGHT 3
PUNGA COVE RESORT (or Mahana Lodge)
Experience the native New Zealand bush and the crystal clear sparkling water of the Marlborough Sound. The fully licensed restaurant has breathtaking views of the entire Endeavour Inlet. Or relax at the Boatshed Cafe & Bar on the jetty. The rooms have en suites and most have views of the sea.
General Info
AVAILABILITY
This trip is available all year round. We do however suggest trying to avoid January and February when the area gets very crowded with holidaymakers. There is a surcharge at this time and the walking temperature is slightly warmer, however, it’s New Zealand so there’s no need to worry unless you are really susceptible to heat. Spring (September to December) and autumn (March to May) are excellent times to walk from a temperature perspective.
WALKING
This track is undulating, well-graded and without much incline or decline. Walks average about 17 km a day and have some elevation please check itinerary days. There’s always time to walk and explore further if you’re up to it. There’s also time to relax and enjoy all of the lodges and hotels’ gorgeous surroundings on the Sound.
GETTING THERE AND AWAY
There are many ways to get to and from the track. If you have the time it might suit you best to mix the methods of travel in order to facilitate the best experience.
- By car, you can drive to Picton from anywhere in New Zealand. It makes the most sense to fly to Christchurch in order to facilitate a ‘drive and explore’ of the east coast, namely Kaikoura and Akaroa (Banks Peninsula).
- Fly to Wellington and get an onward flight to Blenheim where we can pick you up. This is the fastest method.
- Fly to Wellington and take the ferry which arrives right next to your hotel in Picton.
- Fly to Christchurch and catch the Coastal Pacific train to Picton, a train journey that’s touted as being one of the greatest train journeys in the world. From the train station, it’s a short 3 to 4-minute walk to your hotel. Highly recommended.
- Get an onward flight to Nelson from all the major centres, where it is possible to get a private transfer. This is one of the best transport options for the Abel Tasman walk. If you do the Abel Tasman walk with us we will handle all the transfers on both trips to and from the tracks to Nelson or close by.
WEATHER
December through February is usually warm to hot with excellent swimming weather. But as mentioned please book well in advance for January and February due to the summer school holidays. March through May and September to November are usually cooler, with long sunny days, perfect for walking.
See the New Zealand Meteorological Service for information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.
INSURANCE
We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.
For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.
We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office. See the FAQ section for more information.
INFORMATION PACK
For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.
CONTACT
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form or email us at info@Stroll.com
ENQUIRE NOW
If you’re looking for further information on any of our walking holidays please fill out the enquiry form and we’ll be in touch.