2025 Glendhu Bay Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

There is a parking lot available, so you can park your car and start your hike from there. Since this is a full-day activity, I stayed overnight in the nearby town of Wanaka and started the hike early the next morning. The trail is closed during the winter season, so it's best to check the timing before you go. (I visited in September, and it was open at that time.) The trekking itself isn't too strenuous. You'll be more captivated by the stunning scenery along the way, so don't worry too much! Even if it gets a bit tough, the incredible views make it absolutely worth the effort.

The Roy’s Peak Track near Wānaka is one of New Zealand’s most iconic hikes, known for its breathtaking panoramic views over Lake Wānaka and the surrounding Southern Alps. The track is a steady, challenging ascent of around 8 kilometers one way, with a total climb of 1,200 meters. The trail zigzags through farmland and alpine meadows, offering stunning scenery throughout the climb. While the hike can be physically demanding, especially on hot or windy days, the reward at the top is unforgettable: sweeping views of snow-capped peaks, the lake’s deep blue waters, and the famous ridgeline photo spot. The full return trip takes 5–7 hours, so good footwear, water, and weather awareness are essential. Roy’s Peak is a must-do for keen hikers seeking one of the South Island’s most picture-perfect vistas.

"If you want to experience the Middle-earth world from the movie 'The Lord of the Rings,' Wanaka in autumn will captivate you at first sight." Visiting Wanaka at the end of April, driving from Queenstown along winding mountain roads, you'll be surrounded by golden and orange hues, as if stepping into a painted masterpiece. Wanaka's autumn is gentle, clean, and comfortably cool without being cold. Every snapshot you take feels like a wallpaper-worthy image. 📌 Practical Travel Tips 🗓 Best Travel Season: Mid-April to early May is Wanaka's golden autumn season, with bald cypress, maple, and silver birch trees turning golden and orange, transforming the town into a fairytale. 🚗 Transportation: Drive from Queenstown (about 1.5 hours). The mountain roads are in good condition. Renting a car is recommended for flexibility and access to scenic spots along the way. 💰 Cost Reference: Fuel prices are high (NZ$2.8–3.2/L), but accommodation and meals are relatively affordable. Hostels or B&Bs cost around NZ$80–150 per night. 📷 Photography Tips: The best lighting is during sunrise and sunset! Morning is ideal for capturing the lone tree in the lake, while evening is perfect for photographing mountains and golden forest trails. Consider using a polarizing filter (CPL) and warm-tone filters. 📍 Must-Visit Attractions + My Experience 🌳 #ThatWanakaTree (Wanaka Lone Tree) This iconic tree is Wanaka's signature! Standing alone in the lake, its appearance changes with the water level. In autumn, its reflection in the water is especially dreamy. 📸 Tip: Arrive before 6:30 AM to avoid crowds and capture the mist, sunrise glow, and mirror-like lake surface. 📝 Insight: Many visitors leave quickly after seeing the tree. I recommend bringing a cup of coffee and sitting by the lake to watch the changing sky—it's incredibly soothing. 🥾 Roys Peak Track | A Must-Hike Instagram-Worthy Trail Known as "Wanaka's Pinnacle for Photos," this trail is about 8km one way with a 1,200-meter elevation gain. It's challenging but offers breathtaking views! 📍 Starting point is a 15-minute drive from Wanaka town. The hike to the summit takes 3–4 hours. 📸 Highlight: At the summit, you can capture classic views of Wanaka Lake and snow-capped mountains. Weather changes quickly, so bring a windproof jacket. 📝 Insight: I started at 3 PM and reached the summit at sunset. The golden light on the grassy slopes was so stunning it almost brought tears to my eyes. 🍁 Wanaka Station Park | A Local Favorite for Maple Viewing More romantic than the lone tree! This small park is surrounded by golden silver birch trees in autumn, offering a quiet and serene atmosphere. 📍 Less than a 10-minute drive from town, it's also suitable for families or leisurely strolls. 📝 Insight: Perfect for portrait photography with autumn leaves as foreground, backlighting, and warm-tone filters to enhance photo quality. 🛶 Lake Wanaka Kayaking Experience Highly recommend the "sunrise kayak" experience. The guides are professional, and the morning mist creates a magical atmosphere on the lake. 📍 Booking: GoJets or Paddle Wanaka are great options, costing around NZ$120 per person, including guide and equipment. 📝 Insight: It can be chilly, but watching the sunrise gradually illuminate the lake makes it worth every penny. 🍽 Must-Try Food Recommendations 🍕 Francesca’s Italian Kitchen: Handmade Italian pizza paired with local wine—authentic flavors. ☕ Relishes Cafe: Popular brunch spot with exquisite plating and great coffee (Flat White is a must-try). 🍦 Black Peak Gelato: Homemade ice cream with a unique autumn-exclusive pumpkin flavor. 🏨 Accommodation Suggestions Wanaka View Motel: Cozy wooden cabins with lake views, offering great value. The balcony faces the lone tree. Edgewater Hotel: Excellent location with lakeside trails leading directly to sunrise photo spots. Airbnb Recommendation: Look for properties with floor-to-ceiling windows and wooden balconies—perfect for autumn photography. 💬 Final Thoughts Wanaka's autumn is a gentle yet authentic beauty. It's not loud or showy; it quietly invites you to immerse yourself in its colors and atmosphere. There's no need to chase specific attractions here—simply wandering down a leaf-covered path or sitting by the lake for an hour can create the most genuine travel moments.

If you're looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful side of Wānaka, the walk to Glendhu Bay is an absolute must. I stumbled upon this trail almost by accident, and it turned out to be one of the most beautiful and calming experiences of my trip. The path winds gently along the lake’s edge, offering uninterrupted views of the mountains and the sparkling water. Unlike the packed spots like #thatwanakatree, this walk feels like your own private slice of nature. I barely saw anyone else the whole way. I loved that I could take my time—stop to take photos, sit and breathe in the view, or just walk and let my mind wander. There's no set destination or pressure to finish—it’s just you, the lake, and the landscape. I turned around whenever I felt ready, feeling completely refreshed. If you're someone who loves quiet, scenic places and meaningful moments in nature, this hidden gem will stay with you long after you leave. I couldn’t recommend it more. #travel #hiking #newzealand #wanaka

Hiking up Rocky Mountain in Wanaka was already special, but what made it unforgettable was what we did at the summit—we cooked instant noodles right at the viewpoint! It was my first time doing something like this. After a good 1.5-hour hike through beautiful trails and peaceful Diamond Lake, we reached the top, where the views were just unreal—Lake Wanaka stretching below us, surrounded by rugged peaks. It was the perfect place to take a break. My friends and I pulled out our little portable stove, boiled water, and made warm, comforting noodles while enjoying the mountain breeze. Eating hot noodles with that view? Honestly, it hit differently. We laughed, shared snacks, and soaked in every moment—it felt like a true bonding experience in nature. It wasn’t just a hike; it turned into a memory I’ll never forget. If you ever hike Rocky Mountain, I totally recommend bringing your favorite cup noodles and some good company! #travel #thingstodo #newzealand #hiking

Roys Peak Track is one of the most iconic hiking trails on New Zealand's South Island, located near Wanaka. It is renowned for its stunning lake and mountain views. This trail is particularly popular among photographers and hikers, offering breathtaking views of Lake Wanaka and the distant Southern Alps. Trail Information Length: Approximately 16 km (round trip) Walking Time: 5-7 hours (3-4 hours up, 2-3 hours down) Elevation: 1,578 meters Difficulty: Moderate to difficult (mainly steep uphill sections) - a true test of willpower Open Season: October 1 to May 14 (closed during breeding season, please check official announcements) Hiking Highlights 1. Spectacular Panoramas: From the summit, you can overlook Lake Wanaka, the Matukituki Valley, and Mount Aspiring National Park, with breathtaking scenery. 2. Iconic Photo Spot: The viewpoint about 30 minutes from the summit is the best place to capture classic views of Lake Wanaka. 3. Challenging Slopes: The trail is mostly steep uphill, challenging your stamina, but the unfolding scenery along the way makes it worthwhile. Recommended Gear and Precautions Hiking Boots: The trail is mostly dirt and gravel, so sturdy hiking boots are recommended. Sun Protection: There is little shade along the trail, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Water and Food: There are no supply points along the trail, so bring at least 2-3 liters of water and some snacks. Weather Changes: New Zealand's weather is unpredictable, so bring a windproof and waterproof jacket. Hiking Time Planning: The best time to start is early morning to avoid the intense midday sun and to ensure you descend before sunset. Respect the Environment: Follow the 'Leave No Trace' principles, take all your trash with you, and protect the natural environment. How to Get There? It takes about 10 minutes by car from downtown Wanaka to reach the Roys Peak Car Park on Mount Aspiring Road. Parking is limited, so it's advisable to arrive early during peak season. Who is it Suitable For? Those with good physical fitness and hiking experience Those who enjoy challenging steep hikes Travelers who love photography and stunning landscapes This trail is one of New Zealand's classic hiking routes. If you're planning a trip to Wanaka, Roys Peak is definitely a must-visit spot that will challenge you to the core!

Embarking on a midnight hike to Roy's Peak on December 31, 2023, was a unique way to usher in the New Year. Starting at 12:00 AM, I navigated the challenging 8 km ascent, which typically takes around 4 hours to reach the summit. The trail, known for its steep inclines and alpine meadows, was illuminated only by my headlamp, adding an element of adventure to the journey. Reaching the summit just before sunrise, I was greeted by a breathtaking panorama of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding Southern Alps. The first light of 2024 casting hues over the landscape was a serene and memorable experience. This early morning trek not only offered a physical challenge but also provided a tranquil moment to reflect and embrace the new year amidst nature's beauty. #celebrateit #naturalwonders #newzealand #travel #couplestrip

#newzealandtrip 📍 Location: 6 km west of Wanaka town. 📍 Navigation: Roys Peak Track Car Park. 📍 Distance: 16 km round trip (13 km if you only go to the viewpoint). ⏰ Official Time: 5-6 hours. ⭐ Elevation Gain: From 350 meters to 1578 meters (viewpoint around 1320 meters). Tips: ⭐Closed from October 1st to November 10th. ⭐Climbing in winter (June-August) is much more challenging, requiring crampons and proper gear. Be prepared for strong winds at the summit. Enjoy the breathtaking views and the challenge! 🏞️🌟🚶♂️

Roy’s Peak is the most representative hiking spot in Wanaka, South Island, New Zealand. It is famous for its magnificent mountain and lake scenery, especially the "Internet celebrity shooting spot" widely known on Instagram. The following is a detailed guide to help you complete this hiking trip smoothly. Basic information • Location: About 6 kilometers from the center of Wanaka town. • Hiking distance: 16 kilometers round trip (8 kilometers one way). • Altitude: 1578 meters (climbing about 1300 meters). • Duration: About 5-7 hours round trip, depending on personal physical strength and shooting time. • Difficulty: Medium to high, mainly continuous climbing, no technical difficulties, but requires good physical strength. • Opening hours: October 1 to May 10 every year (closed in winter to protect the sheep). Transportation and arrival 1. Self-driving: Starting from Wanaka Town, drive along Mount Aspiring Road to Roy’s Peak Track Carpark, which is about a 10-minute drive. The parking lot is small, so you need to arrive early to grab a parking space during peak season. 2. Travelers without a car: You can choose to rent a bicycle or book a local pick-up service. Detailed explanation of the hiking route 1. From the starting point to the middle section: It is a steep slope at the beginning, which requires patience and a sense of rhythm. You can enjoy the initial view of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains on the way. This is basically a sheep activity area, and you may encounter sheep dung. 2. From the middle section to the popular shooting point: When you reach about 3/4, you will see a fence and a viewing point, which is a famous shooting location. It is recommended to queue up patiently for photos (it may take more than 30 minutes to queue up during peak season). 3. From the shooting point to the summit: If your physical strength allows, continue to climb to the summit. Although there are not so many tourists in the higher part, the scenery is more spectacular, overlooking the entire Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. Equipment recommendations 1. Hiking equipment: • Comfortable hiking shoes (anti-slip, waterproof). • Quick-drying clothes and multiple layers of clothing (it may be colder at the top of the mountain). • Sun protection products: hats, sunscreen, sunglasses. • Hiking poles (to reduce pressure on the knees). 2. Supplies: • Bring at least 2 liters of water (no water supply point). • Energy snacks (such as chocolate, nuts). 3. Others: • Camera or mobile phone (make sure it is fully charged to take photos of Internet celebrities). • Garbage bags (protect the environment and do not leave garbage). Notes 1. Weather: The weather is changeable, please check the weather forecast in advance to avoid strong winds or rainy days. If the weather is too bad, the scenery may be affected. 2. Physical strength assessment: If you are physically weak, it is recommended to climb slowly and do not force yourself to reach the top. The viewing point is already beautiful. 3. Environmental protection: Please do not disturb the sheep or damage the vegetation, and take all the garbage back. Best time to shoot • Sunrise: The most ideal time, the sun shines on the top of the mountain, the colors are particularly beautiful, but you need to start hiking in the early morning. • Weekday morning: Avoid the crowds and reduce the waiting time for shooting. • Golden hour: From early morning to noon, when the weather is clear, the light and visibility are best.

Did a sunrise hike to Roy’s peak in summer Jan24. Started the ascent at 2am. This was my very first sunrise hike and my longest hike yet at 16km. It may sound tiring or crazy to those who haven’t attempted a 16km return sunrise hike before but I’m telling you that it’s totally worth it. Ascending in the dark, I got to see the sky full of stars. I saw a shooting star for the first time in my life too. The hike up is steep and long but just keep on going. Looking at the mesmerising stars helped me march on. Weather is cooling too - bring layers and gloves, you’ll need them especially at the peak lookout before the sun comes out. Slowly, midway through the hike, the sky gradually turns blue and you can see the sun creeping up and the orange rays peeking thru. Starting the hike at wee hours, I couldn’t see anything in the darkness. So when the daylight started and I got to see the magical mountainous view in front of me, I was in awe. The sunrise was the cherry on top. At the peak/lookout, I was tired but the view and totally worth it! Words can’t describe The descent was hot and sweating as the summer sun was out and shining bright. I will highly recommend a sunrise hike (starting 2-3am) instead of mid-day if hiking in summer. I love New Zealand 🇳🇿

#outdooradventure Hiking up Roy's Peak was the most incredible hike I've ever experienced. The views were absolutely stunning, making every step worthwhile. Despite the route being a "simple" gravel road, the eight kilometers of continuous ascent were a true test of endurance, leaving my quads and glutes burning and my lungs on fire. However, reaching the summit and taking in the breathtaking panorama made all the effort worth it. The sense of accomplishment and the sheer beauty of the landscape were simply amazing. This hike is a must-do for anyone seeking a challenging yet rewarding adventure. Highly recommend!

#newzealandtrip I recently completed one of New Zealand's most iconic hikes—Roys Peak, and it was an experience I won't forget. The trail starts from the Roys Peak Track car park near Lake Wanaka, and immediately you’re greeted with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake. The hike itself is challenging, with a steep ascent over a 5 to 6-hour journey, but the reward at the top is absolutely worth it. The track zigzags its way up the mountain, offering breathtaking vistas of Lake Wanaka, Mount Aspiring, and the Southern Alps. As I made my way to the summit, the anticipation built, knowing the panoramic views would be unparalleled. At the top, I was surrounded by a 360-degree view of snow-capped peaks, valleys, and lakes that looked like something out of a dream.

From Queenstown to Wanaka 🚗 First stop: Roy's Peak. We didn't go all the way to the summit, just a 30-minute hike🥾. We saw adorable sheep and enjoyed the view from above. If you have the time and energy, you can go to the summit 🏃 for an even more spectacular view! It takes about 5-6 hours, so we skipped it this time to save time. Once we descended, Lake Wanaka was right there. We parked the car and decided to explore the town. The area around Lake Wanaka is bustling with tourists. If you're visiting Lake Wanaka, Roy's Peak is also recommended!

#100WaysOfTravel #RoysPeak #newzealand #wanaka #hiking

A man is not as old as long as he is seeking something. A man is not old until regrets take the place of dreams. As long as a person has something to pursue, he never gets old. A person is old until regrets replace dreams. - Wanaka Roys Peak Track-New Zealand The total length is 16 kilometers, and the elevation is 1,580 meters. It is estimated to take 5-6 hours to complete the climb You can overlook the entire Wanaka Lake And the snow-capped mountains in the distance This is one of the ten most famous hiking trails in New Zealand. It is said to be the most difficult one to climb. The slope is very steep because the entire mountain area is pasture. You can often go hiking with sheep🐑 It is closed in October and November every year. Although it is summer, the cold wind on the mountain still makes people shiver Onion-style dressing is the most suitable When the weather is good, be sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen There is no cover at all There is a toilet at the foot of the mountain and at the top of the mountain. During the process, I almost lost my strength on my legs several times. The pain can only be overcome with willpower I wanted to reach the top and see the most comprehensive view. Unconsciously, I am slowly approaching my goal We met many climbers on the way. Foreigners' long legs make their every step look bold and majestic. Walking on the ridge, focusing on every inch of land under your feet Shortcuts are always risky. The safest way is always roundabout. - Photo by Dona Lin Roys Peak, Wanaka, New Zealand

The Roy's Peak hike, as announced by the New Zealand Tourism Bureau, is a total of 16 kilometers round trip, which normally takes about 6 hours. The mountain road is a zigzagging uphill dirt and gravel path, constantly ascending. From the top of the mountain, you can overlook the panoramic view of Lake Wanaka and the magnificent scenery of the Aspiring Mountain Range in the distance, which is famous worldwide. There are two scenic viewpoints at the summit, the first of which is a popular photo spot with a path extending outward. Standing on the outermost rock, the mountains and lake scenery are breathtaking, with epic views that will leave you in awe. After 10 am, there are more people and you may have to queue up just to take that unforgettable photo. To reach the highest peak, it takes about an hour round trip from the second viewpoint. However, the view from the top is not as good as the second viewpoint, so many people just take photos at the second viewpoint and then head back down. The Filipino girl's English name is Joy, she is 26 years old, young, lively, and loves traveling, taking photos, and playing with drones. We spent a little over 3 hours hiking up the mountain, and because Joy had to return the car at 1 pm, we hurried down and only took a little over an hour and a half. Including the time we spent taking photos and lingering, we arrived at the parking lot at the foot of the mountain around 12:30 pm.

The Rocky Mountain and Diamond Lake is a scenic hiking trail with spectacular views of the beautiful lakes surrounding Wanaka, New Zealand.