Private Wanaka Loop Tour from Queenstown

A grand circle through the best of the Southern Lakes.

This is the full scenic circle, and the best way to take in the breadth of the Southern Lakes in a single, unhurried day. It runs out through the wine country of Gibbston and Cromwell, lingers a long midday at Wanaka, and comes home over the Crown Range through the Cardrona Valley.

The morning heads into the Kawarau Gorge, with a first pull-in above the river where the original bungy bridge hangs over the water and the Roaring Meg races down to meet it. On to Cromwell for morning coffee in the restored heritage precinct, the old gold town saved from the water when the valley was dammed, and in season the fruit stalls on the way out of the basin, where the cherries and stonefruit come off the orchards around you.

By midday you reach Wanaka, and this is where the day slows down. The lone willow known as That Wanaka Tree stands out in the shallows a short walk from the lakefront, and from there guests can keep walking along the water at their own pace while your guide meets them further round with lunch laid out by the lake. There is time afterwards to wander the township or simply sit.

Included in your tour

• Private luxury vehicle and dedicated driver-guide
• Door-to-door hotel pick-up and return
• A lakeside picnic style or café lunch in Wanaka
• Bottled water

Not included: Drinks beyond lunch; optional wine tastings or activities along the route (arranged on request).