The Hollyford Walk

2010 Dates:
Jan: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30
Feb: 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27
Mar: 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31
Apr: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18

Step into the dramatic Hollyford Valley and you enter a world that has remained largely unchanged for thousands of years. It is New Zealand wilderness at its most primal and inspiring. Geologically spectacular and ever changing, your Hollyford Track experience is one of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, rainforests, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, reefs, sand-dunes and surf. The sheer diversity of vegetation and wildlife in this one valley is truly unparalleled. Your Hollyford memories will last forever. The breathtaking vistas hiking through World Heritage wilderness, the captivating jet boat ride down the river and across Lake McKerrow, exploring the historical sights, and the stunning scenic flight out to Milford Sound, all shared with just a small group of people.

Pre Departure Briefing: Your pre departure briefing begins at 6 pm the evening before the trek. This is a chance for you to meet your guide and fellow walkers. Your guide will "walk" you through the next three unforgettable days, on the Hollyford Track.

Day 1 : Waterfalls, Pyke River Lodge, Glow Worms
Travel along side the beautiful Lake Wakatipu and on to Te Anau. Then we depart for the Hollyford Valley and travel through the majestic Eglington Valley to the start of the Track in the Hollyford Valley visiting Gunn’s Camp museum on the way. Then we explore along the Hollyford River to Pyke River Lodge, where you’ll enjoy native beech forest, waterfalls, and interesting historical tales from our guide. Visit glow-worm colony in the evening.

Walking distance is approximately 12 miles.

Day 2 : Lakes, Jet Boating & 1000 year old trees and Wildlife Experience
Begin your day with a short walk to Lake Alabaster and learn of the history and geology of the area whilst in the midst of stunning surroundings. Cross Fiordland's longest swing bridge and then enjoy a captivating jet boat journey down the Hollyford River and across Lake McKerrow to the historic site of Jamestown that was intended to be the capital of the South Island in the late 1800's. Walk through the ancient Podocarp forest (New Zealand native pines) with huge Rimu, Totara and Kahikatea trees wrapped in massive Rata vines. Then visit the fur seal colony at Long Reef on the wild West Coast. You may see the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin. Spend the night at Martins Bay Lodge.

Walking distance is approximately 7 miles.

Day 3 : Martins Bay Beach & Coastline/ Scenic Flight to Milford Sound
Travel by jet boat to the beach and explore Martins Bay Beach, sand dunes and lagoon. Learn about its history and its plant, sea and bird life. Enjoy a scenic flight to Milford Sound, with views of the Track route, Hollyford Valley and Mt Tutoko, Fiorland’s highest peak. Then we’ll head back to Queenstown or Te Anau with stops of interest along the way. (Optional cruise to Milford Sound available)

Walking distance is approximately 5 miles.

Included:

• Pre departure briefing
• Experienced guide for duration of walk
• Coach transport from Queenstown/Te Anau to the start of the Track
• Lodge accommodation on the Track, in well-appointed twin share rooms with shared bathroom facilities
• All meals on the track
• Duvets, towels, shampoo, soap, hairdryers & hot water bottles
• Captivating jet boat journey across Lake McKerrow
• Scenic flight to Milford Sound
• Return coach transport to Queenstown (not applicable if guest chooses to overnight in Te Anau or Milford)
• Use of backpacks and rain jackets if required