Walter Peak
A commanding 1800m high, Walter Peak is regularly visited by the TSS Earnslaw steamship as it ferries passengers to the base of the mountain to experience Walter Peak High Country Farm.
Legend has it adventurous pioneers William Rees and Nicholas Von Tunzelman flipped a coin for which side of the lake to settle on in the late 1850s. Rees got the Queenstown side and Von Tunzelman Walter Peak.
In the late 1880s, the Mackenzie family took over the region and farmed the area for 80 years, establishing the Colonel’s Homestead in 1908. Unfortunately, the fire damaged the iconic building in 1977, and it was then carefully reconstructed.
Fast forward to 2014, when Real NZ initiated an ambitious conservation effort known as the Walter Peak Land Restoration Project. This endeavour began after the acquisition of the farmland surrounding Colonel’s Homestead. In an ecological feat, the project involved clearing 155 hectares of invasive non-native trees and weeds, creating space for the restoration of pockets of native bush. Additionally, a scenic walkway was meticulously crafted, offering visitors a mesmerizing journey through this revitalized landscape.
Today, this stunning route not only allows visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history of the high country farm but also presents the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely ride aboard the iconic TSS Earnslaw, making for a truly unforgettable experience.
RealNZ Walter Peak High Country Farm
Start (or finish) your Around the Mountains ride with a scenic cruise to/from Walter Peak High Country Farm, bike welcome onboard. Before you set off, explore this lakeside destination for legendary BBQ dining, immersive farm or eco experiences, and strolls through award-winning gardens with epic lake and mountain views. Find out more: https://www.realnz.com/en/destinations/walter-peak-high-country-farm/ Bikes are […]
Queenstown Boat Charters
Queenstown Boat Charters – Scenic Bike Transfers Across Lake Wakatipu Make your cycle journey seamless and unforgettable with Queenstown Boat Charters, offering hassle-free bike and rider transfers across the stunning Lake Wakatipu. Whether you’re starting or finishing the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail, our private charter service connects you effortlessly between Queenstown, and Walter Peak […]
RealNZ Queenstown Lake Cruise
Board the Spirit of Queenstown, our fast, modern catamaran, and cruise across the crystal-clear Lake Whakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm to begin your bike adventure. Enjoy panoramic mountain views, grab a drink or snack at the onboard café, and get set for your cycle journey. Find out more: https://www.realnz.com/en/experiences/day-cruises/queenstown-lake-cruise/ Bikes are welcome on […]
RealNZ Walter Peak Eco Experience
Take a ride break and join our rural team for an inspiring stop along your cycle trail. Cross Lake Whakatipu with your bike and find a deeper connection to New Zealand’s restored landscapes. Wander edible gardens, marvel at the beehives, explore orchards, greenhouses, and our native plant nursery. Leave your mark by planting a native […]
RealNZ Walter Peak High Gourmet BBQ Dining
Take your bike across Lake to Walter Peak High Country Farm, your perfect stop along the Around the Mountains cycle trail. Arrive as you are at Queenstown’s only cruise, dining, and farm show experience. Refuel at the lakeside Homestead on wood-fired meats, fresh salads, cheeses, charcuterie, and seasonal produce, plenty to recharge after (or before) […]
RealNZ Walter Peak Farm Tour
Break up your ride to explore a real working high country farm and stop at Walter Peak. Greeted by one of our rural hosts, you’ll explore the picturesque farm, meet its friendly residents, and feed some of the animals. Don’t forget to give Dougal, our famous Highland cow, a scratch between the ears before heading […]
RealNZ TSS Earnslaw Lake Cruise
Your bike trail ‘Around the Mountains’ won’t be complete without a steamship journey on the TSS Earnslaw. An iconic Queenstown experience, this vintage vessel plays an integral role in the town’s history and will drop you right at Walter Peak High Country Farm. To make your experience go the extra mile, you can upgrade your […]
Barge Services
Barge Services NZ offers Queenstown to Walter Peak Station – Lake transfers. Joel, your friendly skipper alongside his partner Kate, own and operate Barge Services NZ. Offering safe, reliable and no hassles barge transport. Flexible departure times. Ride on Ride off / Up to 22 cyclists at a time. Check out our Facebook page or […]
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