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 landscapes and diverse wildlife of the iconic Routeburn Track Trailhead in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand.

Routeburn Track Trailhead (Routeburn Shelter)

Routeburn Flats Hut

19.3 km

Experience the beauty of New Zealand's wilderness at Routeburn Flats Hut, a serene accommodation along the iconic Routeburn Track in Mount Aspiring National Park.

Routeburn Falls Hut

20.2 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Routeburn Falls Hut in Mount Aspiring National Park, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and hikers seeking adventure.

Key Summit Trail

20.8 km

Explore the breathtaking Key Summit Trail in Fiordland National Park, where stunning views and diverse ecosystems await every adventurous traveler.

Routeburn Track

21.5 km

Explore the breathtaking Routeburn Track, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand's Fiordland National Park, offering stunning views and incredible landscapes.

Lake Gunn North Viewpoint

22.7 km

Experience the breathtaking vistas of Lake Gunn North Viewpoint in the heart of Fiordland National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.

Falls Creek Falls

24.5 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Falls Creek Falls in Fiordland National Park, a scenic haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Cascade Creek Historic Camp site

24.6 km

Experience the tranquility and history of Cascade Creek Historic Campsite, a serene retreat in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand's natural wonderland.

Ben Lomond Saddle

25.4 km

Discover breathtaking views and exhilarating hikes at Ben Lomond Saddle, a top tourist attraction in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Mount Nicholas

26.8 km

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at Mount Nicholas, a stunning destination in Otago, New Zealand, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Ben Lomond Lavender Farm

28.1 km

Experience the tranquility of Ben Lomond Lavender Farm in Coronet Peak, where stunning lavender fields and charming farm animals await every visitor.

Tiki Trail- Top Station

28.5 km

Explore the Tiki Trail - Top Station in Queenstown for stunning views, diverse wildlife, and an unforgettable hiking experience in New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.

Sunshine Bay Track

28.8 km

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty of Sunshine Bay Track in Queenstown, New Zealand, a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Heritage Queenstown

29.0 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Heritage Queenstown, a luxurious hotel offering stunning lake views and a gateway to adventure in New Zealand.

Arrowtown Wine Tours, Queenstown

29.1 km

Explore the exquisite flavors of New Zealand's wine country with Arrowtown Wine Tours in Queenstown, where scenic beauty meets exceptional wines.

Unmissable attractions to see

Dart River Adventures

0.1 km

Discover the wonders of Glenorchy with Dart River Adventures, where thrilling water activities meet breathtaking landscapes in New Zealand's pristine wilderness.

Delta Discovery

9.6 km

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Glenorchy with Delta Discovery, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning wilderness adventures.

Isengard Lookout

9.7 km

Experience breathtaking views and cinematic magic at Isengard Lookout in Glenorchy, New Zealand, a must-visit for nature lovers and movie fans alike.

Glenorchy-Queenstown Road

13.3 km

Explore the iconic Glenorchy-Queenstown Road, a scenic route boasting breathtaking mountain views and lush landscapes in Otago, New Zealand.

Routeburn Nature Walk

17.4 km

Discover the stunning Routeburn Nature Walk, a captivating trail in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park offering breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.

Bennetts Bluff Viewpoint Walking Track

20.2 km

Experience breathtaking views at Bennetts Bluff Viewpoint, a stunning natural escape in New Zealand's Mount Creighton, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Bennett's Bluff Lookout

20.3 km

Discover the stunning vistas at Bennett's Bluff Lookout along the Glenorchy-Queenstown Road, a perfect stop for breathtaking views and unforgettable memories.

Sage Point

20.7 km

Explore the breathtaking views and serene landscapes at Sage Point, a stunning tourist attraction in Greenstone, New Zealand, perfect for nature lovers.

Lake Harris

21.1 km

Explore the stunning Lake Harris in Mount Aspiring National Park—an idyllic hiking paradise with breathtaking views and serene lakeside tranquility.

Moke Lake

21.8 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Moke Lake, a serene nature preserve in New Zealand's South Island, perfect for outdoor adventures and peaceful retreats.

Lake Fergus

22.3 km

Experience the serene beauty of Lake Fergus, a tranquil lake in Southland, New Zealand, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Pop's View Lookout

22.6 km

Experience breathtaking views and tranquil landscapes at Pop's View Lookout in Southland, New Zealand – a must-visit for every traveler.

Hollyford Valley Lookout

22.7 km

Discover the Hollyford Valley Lookout, a scenic viewpoint offering stunning landscapes and tranquil vistas in New Zealand's Southland region.

Lake Marian Trail Carpark

22.9 km

Explore the stunning landscapes of Hollyford River-Whakatipu Ka Tuka, a natural wonder in Southland, New Zealand, perfect for hiking and wildlife enthusiasts.

Lake Marian Track

22.9 km

Explore the stunning Lake Marian Track in Fiordland National Park, where breathtaking views and natural beauty await every hiker.

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

Key Summit Trail

Routeburn Track

Lake Gunn North Viewpoint

Falls Creek Falls

Cascade Creek Historic Camp site

Ben Lomond Saddle

Mount Nicholas

Ben Lomond Lavender Farm

Tiki Trail- Top Station

Sunshine Bay Track

Heritage Queenstown

Arrowtown Wine Tours, Queenstown

Unmissable attractions to see

Dart River Adventures

Delta Discovery

Isengard Lookout

Glenorchy-Queenstown Road

Routeburn Nature Walk

Bennetts Bluff Viewpoint Walking Track

Bennett's Bluff Lookout

Sage Point

Lake Harris

Moke Lake

Lake Fergus

Pop's View Lookout

Hollyford Valley Lookout

Lake Marian Trail Carpark

Lake Marian Track

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