Roadtrip from Queenstown to Mt Cook

3rd January 2025

Any New Zealand holiday is not complete without an epic road trip. While the roads are a little quieter, but not yet snow covered – there’s no better time to head from Queenstown to Mt Cook. Nestled in the heart of the Southern Alps, this majestic peak promises awe-inspiring vistas and unforgettable experiences.

As you set off from your MajorDomo villa in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, excitement fuels the journey. Follow the winding road along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, framed by the aptly named Remarkables mountain range.

As you leave Queenstown behind, embark on your journey through the Crown Range. This is the highest main road in New Zealand and undoubtedly an experience all in itself. Following the Cardrona valley, where a stop at the Cardrona Hotel is a must! As one of the oldest hotels in the country, serving local ales and freshly baked treats, what’s not to like?

From here, onwards you go to the beautiful town of Wanaka. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Wanaka emerge on the horizon, inviting you to pause and revel in this alpine paradise. The region is home to some especially unforgettable villas with absolutely stunning panoramas.

Wanaka is an eclectic township with a great selection of boutique stores, fabulous access to hiking trails and a mecca for wind based water activities. If you’re hoping to take it slow and break up the driving, we recommend stopping here. Check out our Wanaka villas recommendations further down in this blog for you – there’s some real jaw droppers!

When moving on from Wanaka, the scenery remains just as dramatic with snow-capped peaks piercing the sky as you follow the bright blue waters of Lake Pukaki. The landscape feels almost too good to be true, a testament to the raw beauty of nature.

A comfortable 2 hour 30 minutes’ drive and before long you will be making your way down the winding highway, with Mount Cook peaking in and out of view. Parking in the Whitehorse carpark, soon you’ll reach the jewel of your journey.

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is home to a selection of walking and climbing trails, suiting novices through to experts. Most famously enjoyed is the Hooker Valley Track. This popular trail winds its way along the Hooker River, offering walkers breath-taking views of the glistening glaciers and towering mountains. With its well-maintained pathways, boardwalks and swing bridges, the Hooker Valley Track is perfect for adventurers of all skill levels, promising an unforgettable outdoor experience. Turning and twisting through the landscape for a leisurely 2 hour walk and finally, there he stands tall – Aoraki. At over 12,000 feet, this is New Zealand’s highest peak and boy can you tell! Take a moment to enjoy a packed lunch next to the glacier, then grab those special shots of the almighty silent giant.

But the journey doesn’t have to end here. Mount Cook is more than just a mountain; it’s a gateway to adventure. Whether you choose to embark on a helicopter tour of the surrounding peaks, test your mettle with a spot of mountain climbing, or simply bask in the serenity of this wonderland, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of your time here.

As the sun dips below the horizon, casting the mountains in a warm golden glow, you can’t help but feel grateful for the journey that brought you here. The road from Queenstown to Mt Cook may be long, but the memories you’ll make along the way are sure to last a lifetime.

No matter the direction you are travelling in, if you can afford extra time in each destination then you will not be disappointed. With vast landscapes and wondrous beauty, it’s easy to get lost in it all. Slow down, relax, and enjoy your time in this special slice of the world.

We have hand selected a few really special accommodation in areas of interest along the way to give you a taste of the offerings. Reach out to our travel experts to plan the road trip of a lifetime.