Featured Activities
Following the road from Wānaka to Albert Town, start your trip out with some hiking up the Mt. Iron Track, for beautiful views over Wānaka and Albert Town. Across the road is Puzzling World, which will suit those less hiking-inclined.
In Albert Town, be sure to hit up locally beloved Pembroke Patisserie or the Albert Town Fish Company. Both make excellent eats for the drive out to Lake Hāwea. After passing over the Clutha River, your drive to the shores of Lake Hāwea will take about ten minutes.
Upon arrival in Lake Hāwea, you’ll be welcomed with incredible views of the lake and mountains in the background. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the shore or roll into The Camp Lake Hawea to launch a boat, swim at the dock or laze in the grass.
On your way back, take the long way around to check out Luggate and the Wānaka Airport, where you can visit attractions like the Warbirds & Wheels Museum, the National Toy & Transport Museum and more.
Starting off your trip, for those who are altitude-inclined, head up the Mount Iron track, a short and steep uphill that gives awesome 360 views of town. For those not on the hiking buzz, head across the road to Puzzling World, for some mind melting fun and oddities.
After that, continue on to Albert Town, stopping at either Hook for some fishing or Pembroke Patisserie for some road trip baked goods.
From Albert Town, continue on the highway until you spot the deep blue waters of Lake Hāwea. There, take in the sunshine on the lake shores.
If you’re in the mood for a beautiful sit-down meal, pop in to the Hawea Store and Kitchen. If quick and easy is more your go, then check out the Food Truck at The Camp Lake Hawea (and be sure to peep their gorgeous glamping options!)
Take the long way back to Wānaka through Luggate. Choose to stop for a wine tasting at Nanny Goat Vineyards or maybe go for a pint and some pub fare at the Luggate Hotel.
On your last stop of the day at the Wānaka Airport, you can catch a scenic flight, or even learn to fly the plane yourself! Don’t forget to check out the National Toy and Transport Museum, as well as Warbirds & Wheels. Finally, finish off the day with a pint at Wanaka Beerworks.
