OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
The Queen Charlotte Track is touted as the next New Zealand Great Walk and for good reason. Glorious views over the magnificent Queen Charlotte Sound, stunning native forest and the well-deserved gourmet reputation of the Marlborough area all work in concert to make a tremendously pleasurable immersive experience. Walking in and out of your accommodation each day whilst walking from point to point engenders a real sense of satisfaction on completion.
The Marlborough area is famous for its wine and food all of which are weaved seamlessly into this walk, a magical encounter for all the senses on and off the track. The accommodations are all amazing and located right on the water and virtually on the Queen Charlotte Track so even when you’re relaxing in the evening you feel as though you are still on the walk.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Walk the entire linear track from Ship Cove to Anakiwa
- Explore the location where Captain Cook landed
- Wonder at the astronishing views over Queen Charlotte Sound
- The spectacular Furneaux Lodge
- The Eatwell lookout
- The magnificent large tree ferns and beech forest finishing at Anakiwa Bay, the end of the Queen Charlotte Track.
- Water taxi pick ups
AT A GLANCE
TRIP LENGTH
6 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate
PRICE FROM
$ 1160
per person twin/double shareSINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 410
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 to and from the track or 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 days but no less rewarding. With time up your sleeve, you can wake up late and enjoy the sound of the forest and the surroundings 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, 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 the 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.
Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 23.5 km / 7 – 8.5 hrs
Elevation: + 1288m / -1277m / Max height 469m
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and dinner at the accommodation
Accommodation: Either Portage Hotel, Raetihi Lodge or Lochmara in ensuite rooms
DAY five
Cowshed Bay to Anakiwa
The final walk is an excellent compendium of the days gone by: views, forest, sand, the odd view over luxury houses tucked away in isolated coves plus a lot more. The last 6 or 7 km is a magnificent gentle stroll through large tree ferns and beech forest finishing at Anakiwa Bay, the end of the Queen Charlotte Track. We transfer you back to Picton by water taxi and your accommodation. We can split this last day if you wish. Please speak to the office regarding this or 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 / 21.5 km / 6 -7 hrs
Elevation: +1351m / -1364m / Max Height 380m
Meals: Breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Picton in ensuite rooms
DAY six
PICTON AND ONWARD JOURNEY
A relaxed morning may include a further explore of Picton or the Marlborough wine-growing region. Why not 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
- 5 nights accommodation in beautiful lodge accommodations – the last walking day can be split into 2 if you wish (adds to the cost)
- Walk the entire track end to end pack free, all transfers on and off the track
- A la carte meals including 2-course dinners on the walk
- 5 daily breakfasts, 4 walkers lunches, 3 dinners
- Comprehensive Stroll tracks 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.
NIGHT 1 & 5
PICTON YACHT CLUB HOTEL (or 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. The location of the hotel is important as it is in the middle of town giving you easy access to restaurants, shops and the wharf.
NIGHT 1 & 5
PICTON YACHT CLUB HOTEL (or 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. The location of the hotel is important as it is 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 a la carte restaurant make 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 a la carte restaurant make 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.
NIGHT 4
PORTAGE RESORT HOTEL (or something equivalent)
The Portage allows you to experience a little taste of everything Marlborough has to offer, the food, the comfort and the natural wonder. Walking New Zealand’s famous Queen Charlotte Track is one thing; spotting wildlife from your room or the restaurant is another. The rooms have en suites and most have views of the sea.
NIGHT 4
PORTAGE RESORT HOTEL (or something equivalent)
The Portage allows you to experience a little taste of everything Marlborough has to offer, the food, the comfort and the natural wonder. Walking New Zealand’s famous Queen Charlotte Track is one thing; spotting wildlife from your room or the restaurant is another. The rooms have en suites and most have views of the sea.
NIGHT 4
PORTAGE RESORT HOTEL (or something equivalent)
The Portage allows you to experience a little taste of everything Marlborough has to offer, the food, the comfort and the natural wonder. Walking New Zealand’s famous Queen Charlotte Track is one thing; spotting wildlife from your room or the restaurant is another. 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 on average are about 17 km a day. 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 sound. There is some elevation to this walk, as outlined on itinerary days so please consider this.
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
6 DAYS
oderate
$ 1160
per person twin/double share
$ 410
per person
TRIP LENGTH
6 DAYS
WALK GRADE
oderate PRICE FROM
$ 1160
per person twin/double shareSINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 410
per person
Overview
The Queen Charlotte Track is touted as the next New Zealand Great Walk and for good reason. Glorious views over the magnificent Queen Charlotte Sound, stunning native forest and the well-deserved gourmet reputation of the Marlborough area all work in concert to make a tremendously pleasurable immersive experience. Walking in and out of your accommodation each day whilst walking from point to point engenders a real sense of satisfaction on completion.
The Marlborough area is famous for its wine and food all of which are weaved seamlessly into this walk, a magical encounter for all the senses on and off the track. The accommodations are all amazing and located right on the water and virtually on the Queen Charlotte Track so even when you’re relaxing in the evening you feel as though you are still on the walk.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Walk the entire linear track from Ship Cove to Anakiwa
- Explore the location where Captain Cook landed
- Wonder at the astronishing views over Queen Charlotte Sound
- The spectacular Furneaux Lodge
- The Eatwell lookout
- The magnificent large tree ferns and beech forest finishing at Anakiwa Bay, the end of the Queen Charlotte Track.
- 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 to and from the track or 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 days but no less rewarding. With time up your sleeve, you can wake up late and enjoy the sound of the forest and the surroundings 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, 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 the 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.
Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 23.5 km / 7 – 8.5 hrs
Elevation: + 1288m / -1277m / Max height 469m
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and dinner at the accommodation
Accommodation: Either Portage Hotel, Raetihi Lodge or Lochmara in ensuite rooms
DAY five
Cowshed Bay to Anakiwa
The final walk is an excellent compendium of the days gone by: views, forest, sand, the odd view over luxury houses tucked away in isolated coves plus a lot more. The last 6 or 7 km is a magnificent gentle stroll through large tree ferns and beech forest finishing at Anakiwa Bay, the end of the Queen Charlotte Track. We transfer you back to Picton by water taxi and your accommodation. We can split this last day if you wish. Please speak to the office regarding this or 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 / 21.5 km / 6 -7 hrs
Elevation: +1351m / -1364m / Max Height 380m
Meals: Breakfast and walkers lunch
Accommodation: Picton in ensuite rooms
DAY six
PICTON AND ONWARD JOURNEY
A relaxed morning may include a further explore of Picton or the Marlborough wine-growing region. Why not 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
- 5 nights accommodation in beautiful lodge accommodations – the last walking day can be split into 2 if you wish (adds to the cost)
- Walk the entire track end to end pack free, all transfers on and off the track
- A la carte meals including 2-course dinners on the walk
- 5 daily breakfasts, 4 walkers lunches, 3 dinners
- Comprehensive Stroll tracks 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.
NIGHT 1 & 5
PICTON YACHT CLUB HOTEL (or 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. The location of the hotel is important as it is in the middle of town giving you easy access to restaurants, shops and the wharf.
NIGHT 1 & 5
PICTON YACHT CLUB HOTEL (or 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. The location of the hotel is important as it is 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 a la carte restaurant make 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 a la carte restaurant make 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.
NIGHT 4
PORTAGE RESORT HOTEL (or something equivalent)
The Portage allows you to experience a little taste of everything Marlborough has to offer, the food, the comfort and the natural wonder. Walking New Zealand’s famous Queen Charlotte Track is one thing; spotting wildlife from your room or the restaurant is another. The rooms have en suites and most have views of the sea.
NIGHT 4
PORTAGE RESORT HOTEL (or something equivalent)
The Portage allows you to experience a little taste of everything Marlborough has to offer, the food, the comfort and the natural wonder. Walking New Zealand’s famous Queen Charlotte Track is one thing; spotting wildlife from your room or the restaurant is another. The rooms have en suites and most have views of the sea.
NIGHT 4
PORTAGE RESORT HOTEL (or something equivalent)
The Portage allows you to experience a little taste of everything Marlborough has to offer, the food, the comfort and the natural wonder. Walking New Zealand’s famous Queen Charlotte Track is one thing; spotting wildlife from your room or the restaurant is another. 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 on average are about 17 km a day. 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 sound. There is some elevation to this walk, as outlined on itinerary days so please consider this.
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.