Glenorchy: A Gateway to Natural Wonders

Discover Glenorchy, a stunning village in New Zealand offering breathtaking landscapes, thrilling outdoor activities, and rich film history.

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Nestled at the edge of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by majestic mountains, Glenorchy is a breathtaking haven for nature lovers. This charming small town offers an array of outdoor adventures, from hiking to horseback riding, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.

A brief summary to Glenorchy

Glenorchy, NZ

Local tips

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
Check the weather conditions before hiking, as they can change rapidly in the mountains.
Bring a reusable water bottle; there are plenty of places to refill with fresh water.
Take time to explore local shops and galleries showcasing the work of local artists.
Consider joining a guided tour for insights into the area's history and ecology.

Getting There

Bus

To get to Glenorchy from Queenstown, you can take the Glenorchy bus service operated by Horizon Coaches. Start at the Queenstown Bus Station, located at 38 Shotover Street. Make your way there on foot, which is about a 10-minute walk from the town center. Once at the bus station, purchase a ticket for Glenorchy. The bus departs several times a day, so check the schedule for exact times. The ride will take approximately 45 minutes, and you will enjoy beautiful scenic views along the way. The bus will drop you off in the center of Glenorchy.
Shuttle Service

Consider booking a shuttle service to Glenorchy from your accommodation in Queenstown. Many local companies offer this service. You can ask your hotel or hostel to arrange it for you. The shuttle will pick you up directly from where you are staying. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes, and will take you to the main area in Glenorchy.
Bike Rental

For the more adventurous, consider renting a bike in Queenstown. There are several bike rental shops in town, such as Queenstown Bike Tours. After renting a bike, head towards the Queenstown Gardens and follow the lakeside path that leads to Glenorchy. This route is approximately 45 kilometers long and will take around 2-3 hours, depending on your pace. Be sure to stay on the bike path for safety and enjoy the stunning views along Lake Wakatipu as you make your way to Glenorchy.

Discover more about Glenorchy

Glenorchy is a picturesque village located at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, just a short drive from Queenstown. This enchanting destination is renowned for its jaw-dropping scenery, with towering mountains, pristine lakes, and dense forests surrounding the area. While Glenorchy may be small, its natural beauty is unparalleled, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling to New Zealand. The town serves as a gateway to some of the most iconic hiking trails, including the Routeburn Track and the Greenstone-Caples Track, which attract avid hikers from around the world. Expect to be mesmerized by the dramatic landscapes, featuring snow-capped peaks and lush valleys that are ideal for exploration. In addition to hiking, Glenorchy offers a plethora of outdoor activities. Adventure enthusiasts can partake in horseback riding tours that take you through stunning terrains or embark on jet boat rides to experience the thrill of navigating the area's rivers. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the town's charming cafes and local art galleries provide a perfect retreat to unwind and soak in the tranquil ambiance. Don't miss the opportunity to capture breathtaking photographs of the surrounding mountains and reflections on the lake, particularly during sunrise and sunset when the light paints the landscape in stunning hues. Glenorchy is also rich in film history, having been a filming location for several major movies, including 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy. Movie buffs will appreciate the opportunity to explore the area’s iconic filming sites. With its unique blend of adventure, beauty, and culture, Glenorchy is truly a hidden gem that promises to leave visitors with unforgettable memories of New Zealand's natural splendor.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Routeburn Track Trailhead (Routeburn Shelter)

16.9 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fiordland at the Routeburn Track Trailhead, where nature's wonders await every adventurer.

Routeburn Track Trailhead (Routeburn Shelter)

Routeburn Flats Hut

19.3 km

Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Routeburn Flats Hut, a perfect retreat for hikers in the breathtaking Mount Aspiring National Park.

Routeburn Falls Hut

20.2 km

Discover the tranquility of Routeburn Falls Hut in Mount Aspiring National Park, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning landscapes and hiking adventures.

Lake Gunn North Viewpoint

22.7 km

Experience the serene beauty of Lake Gunn North Viewpoint, a scenic haven in Fiordland National Park, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Falls Creek Falls

24.5 km

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Falls Creek Falls, a serene escape in Fiordland National Park, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

Cascade Creek Historic Camp site

24.6 km

Discover the rich history and breathtaking beauty of Cascade Creek Historic Camp Site in Fiordland National Park, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers alike.

Mount Nicholas

26.8 km

Discover the serene beauty and breathtaking vistas of Mount Nicholas, a hidden gem in New Zealand's stunning Otago region.

Ben Lomond Lavender Farm

28.1 km

Experience the calming beauty of Ben Lomond Lavender Farm, a picturesque lavender haven in Coronet Peak, perfect for relaxation and family fun.

Coronet Peak

28.8 km

Experience the thrill of skiing at Coronet Peak, Queenstown's premier ski resort, offering stunning views, diverse runs, and vibrant après-ski activities.

Sunshine Bay Track

28.8 km

Discover the tranquil beauty of Sunshine Bay Track in Queenstown, where nature meets adventure and breathtaking scenery awaits every visitor.

Heritage Queenstown

29.0 km

Discover unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at Heritage Queenstown, your gateway to adventure in the heart of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.

Arrowtown Wine Tours, Queenstown

29.1 km

Explore the best of New Zealand's wine country with Arrowtown Wine Tours, where exquisite tastings meet stunning landscapes in Queenstown.

Skyline Queenstown

29.1 km

Discover breathtaking views, thrilling luge rides, and local cuisine at Skyline Queenstown, a must-visit tourist attraction in New Zealand.

Kiwi Park Queenstown

29.1 km

Explore Kiwi Park Queenstown, the ultimate wildlife refuge in New Zealand, home to kiwis, tuataras, and a commitment to conservation.

Lake Wakatipu

29.1 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Wakatipu in Otago, New Zealand—where adventure meets tranquility amidst stunning alpine landscapes.

Unmissable attractions to see

Dart River Adventures

0.1 km

Explore the majestic Dart River with thrilling canoeing and kayaking adventures in Glenorchy, New Zealand, surrounded by stunning alpine landscapes.

Glenorchy Lagoon Scenic Walkway

0.4 km

Explore the enchanting Glenorchy Lagoon Scenic Walkway, a serene hiking area showcasing New Zealand's natural beauty with stunning views and diverse wildlife.

Glenorchy Waterfront Reserve

0.5 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Glenorchy Waterfront Reserve, where pristine nature meets stunning landscapes in New Zealand.

Glenorchy Wharf

0.6 km

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Glenorchy Wharf, where stunning views and outdoor adventures await amidst New Zealand's picturesque landscapes.

Glenorchy Lagoon

0.7 km

Explore the tranquil beauty of Glenorchy Lagoon, a natural paradise in New Zealand's Otago region, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Greenstone and Caples Tracks Car Park

9.4 km

Explore the breathtaking Greenstone and Caples Tracks, a hiker's paradise in New Zealand's stunning landscapes, rich in natural beauty and adventure.

Delta Discovery

9.6 km

Explore the natural beauty of Glenorchy with Delta Discovery, your premier tour operator for unforgettable adventures in New Zealand.

Isengard Lookout

9.7 km

Explore the breathtaking Isengard Lookout, an iconic filming location with stunning views that capture the essence of New Zealand's natural beauty.

The Road to Paradise

10.0 km

Explore the breathtaking landscapes along The Road to Paradise, a must-visit scenic route in Glenorchy, New Zealand, surrounded by nature's beauty.

Greenstone Track

10.1 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Greenstone Track in New Zealand's Otago region, a hiker's paradise surrounded by nature's wonders.

Lookout point

11.3 km

Discover the breathtaking vistas at Lookout Point on Glenorchy-Queenstown Road, a must-visit scenic spot for nature lovers.

Paradise

14.0 km

Explore Paradise, a historical landmark in Glenorchy, New Zealand, where breathtaking landscapes meet rich history and adventure.

Paradise Scheelite Mine

15.2 km

Explore the fascinating history of the Paradise Scheelite Mine amidst New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.

Paradise Wharf

17.4 km

Experience the historical allure and breathtaking scenery of Paradise Wharf, a must-visit landmark in Mount Creighton, New Zealand.

Routeburn Nature Walk

17.4 km

Explore the stunning landscapes of Routeburn Nature Walk in Otago, New Zealand, a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Experience authentic Vietnamese flavors at Saigon Kingdom in Queenstown - where every dish tells a story.

Discover unique souvenirs, handcrafted jewelry, and local treasures at The Gift Centre in Queenstown, New Zealand.

K L F Discount Gifts

29.5 km

Discover unique souvenirs and gifts at K L F Discount Gifts in Queenstown, where affordability meets a delightful shopping experience.

Discover the charm of Bardeaux, a cozy bar in Queenstown offering an exquisite selection of wines and whiskeys in a vibrant atmosphere.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Glenorchy: A Gateway to Natural Wonders

A brief summary to Glenorchy

Local tips

Getting There

Bus

Shuttle Service

Bike Rental

Unlock the Best of Glenorchy

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Glenorchy

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Routeburn Track Trailhead (Routeburn Shelter)

Routeburn Flats Hut

Routeburn Falls Hut

Lake Gunn North Viewpoint

Falls Creek Falls

Cascade Creek Historic Camp site

Mount Nicholas

Ben Lomond Lavender Farm

Coronet Peak

Sunshine Bay Track

Heritage Queenstown

Arrowtown Wine Tours, Queenstown

Skyline Queenstown

Kiwi Park Queenstown

Lake Wakatipu

Unmissable attractions to see

Dart River Adventures

Glenorchy Lagoon Scenic Walkway

Glenorchy Waterfront Reserve

Glenorchy Wharf

Glenorchy Lagoon

Greenstone and Caples Tracks Car Park

Delta Discovery

Isengard Lookout

The Road to Paradise

Greenstone Track

Lookout point

Paradise

Paradise Scheelite Mine

Paradise Wharf

Routeburn Nature Walk

Essential places to dine

Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar

Lokal Kitchen & Bar

Nest Kitchen + Bar

Mackenzies Restaurant & Bar

Pedro's House of Lamb

Bespoke Kitchen

Lombardi Restaurant

Lone Star Queenstown

Jervois Steak House

Left Bank Bistro

Bella Cucina

Threesixty Restaurant & Bar

Fergburger

The Taj Indian Kitchen

Saigon Kingdom Vietnamese Restaurant

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Mrs Woolly's General Store

Frank's Corner Queenstown

MorArt

Aotea Gifts Queenstown

Good Times Queenstown

PURE NZ GIFTS

Recycle Boutique

Alpha Gifts 三和

New Zealand All Stars

Angel Divine Queenstown

Roam Clothing Queenstown

Storm

Mary’s Sheep Souvenirs

The Gift Centre

K L F Discount Gifts

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Reds Bar

Le Salon Rouge

Ferg's Bar