Glaciers and Lakes

The Southern Alps of New Zealand form a backbone to the South Island. This self drive itinerary takes you from Christchurch on the east coast over the alps to the west coast where dramatic glaciers crawl slowly down the snow-capped mountains. We have selected some beautiful lodges, tucked away amongst scenery that will take your breath away. Finishing in Queenstown, this itinerary is the ideal way of seeing the highlights of South Island.

Day 1 - Christchurch/Cass
Ride the TranzAlpine Express train across the Canterbury Plains towards Cass. This is one of the most picturesque rail experiences in the world. Upon arrival in Cass you will be met by a representative of Grasmere Lodge who will transport you to their wonderful piece of paradise. A member of 'Small Luxury Hotels of the World', Grasmere Lodge is surrounded by magnificent countryside.

Day 2 - Cass
This morning enjoy a four-wheel drive tour of the property and surrounding farmland. Spend the afternoon relaxing at the lodge or perhaps cast a line for brown trout in one of the nearby lakes or rivers.

Day 3 - Cass/Greymouth/Franz Josef
Reboard the TranzAlpine Express to Greymouth where you will pick up your rental car. Drive south down the coast to Franz Josef. Accommodation tonight will be at Westwood Lodge located just a 15 minute walk from the town.

Day 4 - Franz Josef/Lake Moeraki
A spectacular day awaits as you take to the skies on a scenic helicopter flight over Franz Josef glacier. This flowing ice river is believed to be 7,000 years old. Continue your journey to Wilderness Lodge. Located on the Moeraki River and Lake Moeraki it offers an array of walking trails and canoe routes.

Day 5 - Lake Moeraki/Queenstown
Leave Wilderness Lodge and travel to Queenstown. A stop at Arrowtown is highly recommended, particularly during the autumn months of March, April and May when the avenues of trees turn golden. Queenstown will be your base for the next three nights. Set on Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by breath-taking mountains, Queenstown has become the 'adventure capital' of New Zealand with bungee jumping, jet boat rides and sky diving to name just a few of the activities available for adrenalin seekers. Accommodation will be at the charming Remarkables Lodge.

Day 6 - Queenstown/Milford Sound/Queenstown
This morning embark on an incredible flightseeing tour to Milford Sound. Described as an eighth wonder of the world, you will see the grandeur of the fjord on a cruise with lunch onboard.
Please note the flight is subject to weather conditions.

Day 7 - Queenstown
The day is at leisure to explore the area. Perhaps drive to Glenorchy and join a jet boat ride on the Dart River. Alternatively we can arrange a variety of short walks with an expert guide in and around the Queenstown area.

Day 8 - Queenstown
Depart Queenstown for your onward journey perhaps head to Dunedin or south to Invercragill ?and Stewart Island.