Glenorchy is a little slice of paradise! If you are traveling to Queenstown or live in Queenstown, it is a little town nestled on the northern shores of Lake Wakatipu. A 45-minute scenic drive from Queenstown through New Zealand native bush and the gateway to Middle-earth for all those Lord of the Rings fans!
This adorable rustic town of Glenorchy is nothing short of magical. Believe it or not, there is something for everyone here! Being that we are catering toward families and children we are going to outline a few of our favorite family/child-friendly activities to do whilst visiting charming Glenorchy!
Activities:
Glenorchy Animal Experience - This is a family farm that offers a variety of activities for families and children of all ages. The animals they have at the farm range from ducks to bunnies to Clydesdale horses and everything else in between! You won’t be bored visiting this farm. They do sheep shearing demonstrations and you can hand-feed their farm animals. They have over 100 friendly farm animals that you can visit while taking yourself on a self-guided tour. This is a must-do whilst visiting Glenorchy with your family! Follow the link above for more information on what they have to offer.
High Country Horses - For families with older children, High Country Horses offer a great selection of rides to suit all levels of riders and ages. Ride through some of New Zealand’s most beautiful and native countryside. Experience the peacefulness and serenity Glenorchy has to offer. This is a New Zealand owned and operated business and giving the opportunity to Kiwi’s to discover their backyard. For more information on the different rides they offer, please click the link above, and enjoy!
Walks:
Lake Sylvan Track - This is one of our favourite walks to do in Glenorchy as a family! A great walk which is not too long or too challenging but takes you through the native forest and brings you to Lake Sylvan (swing bridge included). This is a 40-minute walk one-way to the viewing platform or 1 hour 40-minutes returning via the trampoline loop. You can reach the start of this track by driving 30 minutes outside of Glenorchy and reach the Lake Sylvan car park. On this walk, you will experience native trees, old moraine river terraces, and views of Mt Earnslaw. Don’t miss out on this beautiful walk. Above is the DOC link for more information on this walk.
Places to stay:
Camp Glenorchy - One of New Zealand’s first eco retreats that is completely self-sustainable. This eco-friendly retreat was built from the ground up with one thought in mind: sustainability. With breathtaking views and nestled in the heart of Glenorchy, Camp Glenorchy offers the perfect place to stay whilst visiting! It is New Zealand’s only Net Positive Energy Accommodation and suits all budgets to luxury eco-cabins to backpacker style bunks. Don’t miss out on your chance to stay at one of the most fabulous places in New Zealand. Click the link above to book now!
Places to eat:
The GYC - Glenorchy Cafe - One of our favourites! Yum! This adorable converted house makes for the perfect family meal whether that be breakfast or lunch, you name it they have it. Great vibe, and very inviting, they have outdoor or indoor seating with the beautiful mountain and lake views surrounding. If you are passing through Glenorchy, be sure to stop even just for a coffee and scone with family. Directions and hours are linked above.
Photographic opportunities:
Glenorchy Road Photo Opportunity - This is probably one of the most photographed locations in all of New Zealand and you can not miss this opportunity! About 25 min into the drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy you will notice a pullover bay with an outstanding view right down the lake toward Glenorchy. This is a very famous spot to stop so we are sure you won’t miss it. Keep an eye out and be careful when pulling over to get a photo!
