Overview

The Southern Alps are the backbone of New Zealand's South Island. The snow-capped mountain range features several glaciers and New Zealand’s highest peak - Aoraki-Mt Cook – along with dramatic alpine valleys that are home to the country’s best walking trails and ski fields. The Routeburn and Milford Track - two of New Zealand’s Great Walks - offer the best tramping in New Zealand in our view, showcasing the Fiordland and Mt Aspiring National Parks. Nearby, Queenstown and Wanaka are home to world-class ski resorts, Cardrona and the Remarkables. Heli experiences and expedition cruises into Milford Sound depart from Queenstown, Te Anau and Milford and are recommended inclusions on any bucket-list South Island itinerary. Further north is the renowned Marlborough wine region and pristine coastal walks, the Abel Tasman and Queen Charlotte Track. The diversity of natural landscapes on the South Island combined with the exceptional luxury lodges, makes it the ultimate adventure travel destination.

Featured image: Blanket Bay Walk