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Hiking & Walking Holidays

Australia & New Zealand

Lace up your boots and immerse yourself in the Great Outdoors with Australia and New Zealand’s scenic short walks and expertly-guided and accommodated multi-day hikes.
Walking, hiking and ‘tramping’ (as it’s known in New Zealand) are national past-times in these parts. Small wonder why: awe-inspiring natural landscapes invite you to get outdoors and stretch your legs with a stunning collection of spectacular coastal walks and breath-taking alpine hikes.

Trek Tasmania’s untamed wilderness and hike Fiordland’s majestic peaks; wander among ancient Gondwana rainforests, over glistening glaciers or across ancient outback landscapes. Many of Australia and New Zealand’s luxury lodges also provide exclusive access to a collection of stunning short walks.

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Great Walks of Australia Tasmania Overland Track in Cradle Mountain National Park

Experience one of Australia or New Zealand’s iconic Great Walks to explore the great outdoors without leaving life’s modern comforts too far behind. Sleeping in well-appointed private hiking lodges, deluxe swags and beautiful glamping tents, hikers also enjoy hearty home-style meals shared in spectacular settings. 

Alternatively, journey with us to enjoy even more off-the-beaten path adventures with tailored walking tours to suit your interests, timings and fitness level including some spectacular private guided walks and heli-hikes that you won’t find on any maps or in any well-thumbed guidebooks; shared only with the local flora and fauna.

Some Of Our Favourite Hiking Experiences

Itinerary inspirations

These itineraries have been designed to inspire you with a small selection of the many unique adventures to be had in this beautiful region. Once you have a feel for the destinations and experiences that best resonate with you, we will tailor every element of your perfect luxury travel itinerary, exclusively for you. 

Wilderness Walks & Coastal Treats

Stretch Your Legs And Feed Your Soul.

Step inside Spicers Balfour’s iconic Queenslander to enjoy a genuinely warm Queensland welcome in the fashionable Brisbane suburb of New Farm.
Wake to walk the Scenic Rim trail enjoying untouched and World Heritage listed natural beauty. Millions of years in the making, Gondwana rainforests and dramatic volcanic peaks will take your breath away. The five-day guided walking experience provides the opportunity to really get off the well-trodden tourist trail and includes a visit to the Hidden Valley Koala Safari, gourmet campfire dinners, and a collection of relaxed luxury accommodation options including farmhouse and eco cabins surrounded by nature.
Drive across the border into New South Wales to continue the adventures by the coast in Byron Bay. Enjoying the relaxed rainforest comforts of the Byron at Byron Resort and Spa, unwind by the pool, at the beach, in the day spa or with some retail therapy in Byron’s trendy boutiques. Explore the local food scene and freshest regional produce with a private guided tour of the tastiest local finds in and around Byron Bay.
  • Inclusions

    9 nights’ accommodation (1 night Spicers Balfour Hotel, 5 nights Spicers by Scenic Rim Trail, 3 nights Byron at Byron) inclusive of breakfast daily, 5 lunches and 5 dinners per person. Full-day private hosted foodie tour of Byron Bay, Rental vehicle including unlimited kilometres, insurance and GPS.

  • Important Information

    Scenic Rim Trail Walk operates March - November.

Waves, walks & waterways

Feel the wind in your hair and the sand under your feet.

Begin your nature escape at the contemporary Lon Retreat, a seven-suite lodge and mineral spa set on a 200-acre private estate, on the beautiful Bellarine Peninsula. Explore the area’s natural surrounds with a 3.5-hour dolphin and seal swim or a surfing experience (the choice is yours!).

Continue along the iconic Great Ocean Road to join a guided three day/two night Twelve Apostles Lodge walk. Hike through beautiful forests and sandy pathways, enjoy stunning vistas of the Southern Ocean and iconic shipwrecks, and take to the skies on a 15-minute helicopter scenic flight over the Twelve Apostles.

Conclude with a two-night stay in the cosy, coastal town of Port Fairy, staying at Drift House, relax and unwind after the walk and enjoy the “most liveable community in the world”.

  • Inclusions

    6 nights’ accommodation (2 nights Lon Retreat, 2 nights 12 Apostles Lodge, 2 nights Drift House). Daily breakfast (provided as a gourmet hamper at Lon Retreat), 3 lunches, and 2 dinners per person. Choice of either a 3.5 hr Dolphin and Seal Swim cruise or a surfing experience (shared basis). 3 day shared small group walking tour of the Great Ocean Road, 15 min. scenic helicopter flight, rental vehicle including insurance (max. cover) unlimited kilometres and GPS.

  • Note

    This itinerary is available September through to April, commencing on Thursdays.

Walk on the wild side

Broaden your horizons, stretch your legs and refresh your mind. Alice Springs, Larapinta Trail and Kings Canyon

After spending a night in Alice Springs, get off the beaten track and embark on one of the country’s most rewarding multi-day hikes. Enjoying the most scenic sections of the iconic Larapinta desert trail, explore ancient landscapes and Red Centre hidden gems.

Traversing the ridgelines of the West MacDonnell Ranges with just a day pack on your back, enjoy gourmet campfire dinners and sleep under spectacular star-studded skies at exclusive award-winning camps (complete with hot showers and comfortable swags). See the sun rise from the summit of Mt Sonder, dip your toes in Ormiston Gorge and marvel at the sheer walls of Standley Chasm as you take in the wild beauty of the country’s interior and take away a connection to these lands that will last a lifetime.

Returning to Alice Springs, collect your rental vehicle and hit the open road to explore Kings Canyon. Staying at the new Kings Canyon Resort glamping tents, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy another one of Australia’s. most breathtaking outback walks, a sunrise Kings Canyon Rim Walk.

  • Inclusions

    9 nights’ accommodation (2 nights Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters, 5 nights Larapinta Trail, 2 nights Kings Canyon Resort) inclusive of breakfast daily, 6 lunches and 5 dinners per person. Private car transfer on arrival in Alice Springs. 6 day fully supported Larapinta walk on a twin share basis. Rental vehicle including insurance (max cover), unlimited kilometres and GPS.

  • Note

    The Larapinta Walking season operates on set dates between early April and late September annually.

Cape to grape

Idyllic waterways, coastal walks and world-class wines in the wonderful Margaret River region

Follow the coast south from Perth to relax and unwind by the beach at Smiths Beach resort. Your stay here also includes a full day gentle kayaking and wine tasting guided tour of the Margaret River waterways and wineries.

Then set off on one of Australia’s Great Walks, following some of the most scenic stretches of the Cape to Cape coastal track on a guided small-group multi-day walking experience. Over the following four days you will enjoy luxury accommodation with ocean views, fabulous food and wine in breathtaking settings and outdoor adventures in the company of new friends. From Cape Naturaliste’s limestone coastline and Yallingup’s famous surf breaks to towering Karri forests, dramatic sea cliffs and rolling vineyards; take in the spectacular scenery at every turn.

On completion of your walk, enjoy the tranquil surrounds of Olio Bello, a glamping experience surrounded by nature on an organic olive farm in the heart of the Margaret River. Wander through the olive groves or explore the nearby wineries, enjoy long vineyard lunches or relaxing afternoons on the deck, before returning your rental vehicle to Perth.

  • Inclusions

    7 nights’ accommodation (2 nights Smiths Beach Resort, 3 nights Cape to Cape walk and 2 nights Olio Bello) inclusive of 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 3 dinners per person. Small group shared full day tour of Margaret River including wine tasting and lunch, 4 day Cape to Cape small group guided walk. Rental vehicle including insurance (max cover), unlimited kilometres and GPS.

  • Note

    Cape to Cape Walk operates March – June & September - November.

Spectacular south east wonders

Wine and wilderness, art and animals; from the city to the coast.

Begin your journey in the harbourside city of Hobart, with a three-night stay at MACq01, a boutique hotel in one of Hobart’s most enviable locations. Each guest room shares the tales of the colourful characters that have shaped Tasmania’s unique spirit. Whilst in Hobart, enjoy a private day trip to the striking World Heritage Listed Mt Field National Park with an expert guide at your side; and a ‘posh-as’ day of wine and art, including ferry transfers, behind-the-scenes touring at Moorilla winery, a delicious lunch at Source restaurant and a visit to Hobart’s iconic MONA gallery to round out your stay.
Over the following four days, enjoy a guided walking tour on Maria Island, including exclusive glamping accommodation and gourmet candlelit dinners. Explore stunning island scenery, meet endearing Tasmanian wildlife and learn the island’s fascinating history.
Conclude your adventure with a relaxing two-night stay at the luxurious Saffire Freycinet, one of Australia’s most highly awarded luxury lodges, with exceptional dining options, transformative wellness treatments and a complimentary range of immersive local activities and experiences.
  • Inclusions

    8 nights’ accommodation (3 nights MACq01, 3 nights Maria Island Walk, 2 nights Saffire Freycinet) inclusive of daily breakfast, 6 lunches and 6 dinners per person. Full day private Mt Field National Park hosted excursion, Moorilla & MONA posh day including return ferry transfers in the Posh Pit ex Hobart, MONA entry, guided vineyard tour, tasting and a bottle of wine, 4-Day small group Maria island guided walk including ferry transfers, Selected activities at Saffire Freycinet, National Park Fees and entry permits, Private luxury car transfers.

  • Notes

    Maria Island Walk operates October – April.

Tasmanian treasures

Traversing Tasmania from North to South.

Begin your Tasmanian adventure in Launceston before embarking on one of Australia’s most spectacular multi-day guided walks. Explore the beautiful Bay of Fires on foot, travelling across sandy white beaches and secluded coves, kayaking in quiet rivers, enjoying refreshing ocean swims and sipping local wines in the company of new friends.
Return to Launceston and enjoy a perfume-masterclass at a local lavender farm, as well as a nocturnal wildlife tracking tour and campfire dinner.
Envelop yourself in nature with a two-night stay at Cradle Mountain Lodge to enjoy wonderful wilderness walks and spectacular scenery. Continue on to Strahan to explore Tasmania’s wild west, enjoying a scenic half-day cruise through the Gordon River Wilderness Area, one of the most pristine corners of our planet.
Round off your Tasmanian adventure at the French-inspired Villa Howden on the edge of the Huon Valley, and enjoy a full-day cruise to sample the freshest Bruny Island produce and local flavours.
  • Inclusions

    12 nights’ accommodation (1 night The Sebel Launceston, 3 nights Bay of Fires Lodge Walk, 2 nights Peppers Silo Hotel, 2 nights Cradle Mountain Lodge, 2 nights Wheelhouse Apartments, 2 nights Villa Howden) inclusive of 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 4 dinners per person. 4 day/3 night Bay of Fires guided walk including accommodation, meals, transfers and National Park fees, Private Fragrance masterclass, Private Quoll Patrol tour with dinner, Half day shared group Gordon River Cruise including premium seating and lunch, Small group Bruny Island cruise with lunch. Private transfer Launceston. Rental vehicle including insurance (max cover), unlimited kilometres and GPS.

Fiordland In Luxury

New Zealand's premier multi-day hiking experience, including majestic Milford Sound

Avoid the crowds of the Milford Track by hiking one of our best kept secrets, the spectacular Hollyford Track. This luxury multi-day hike takes place in the UNESCO World Heritage listed Fiordland National Park over four days/three nights. Starting in Queenstown or Te Anau, you’ll hike through pristine native rainforests, alongside crystal clear rivers and lakes, and along gorgeous remote coastline. Conclude the experience by hiking into Milford Sound on the final section of the Milford Track. Enjoy the most luxurious accommodations available on a multi-day hike in New Zealand! Your private room has an ensuite with hot running water and continuous power. After each days hiking, relax and chat with your new friends over a cool beer or bottle of wine as the lodge chefs prepare your three course dinner and your hot cooked breakfast each morning. 

  • Inclusions

    5 nights’ accommodation (1 night Eichardt's, 3 nights Hollyford Track, 1 night Eichardt's including breakfast daily, 3 lunches and 3 dinners) and private car and driver transfers to and from airports and accommodations.

Day Hiker Deluxe

A selection of New Zealand's best one day hikes

This journey is for those who want to experience New Zealand’s best one day hikes, and then retire to New Zealand’s very best luxury lodges each evening. Starting in Auckland, you’ll head out to the iconic black sand beaches of the west coast for stunning clifftop views from Te Henga. Then travel to the centre of the North Island for the other-worldly Tongariro Crossing, often named the best one day hike in the world. At the top of the South Island, visit Nelson for the famed golden sand beaches of the Abel Tasman Coast Track , and heli over to the West Coast for a day on the Heaphy Track. In the deep south there’s endless tracks to choose from, most making their way through the ancient rainforests of Fiordland National Park, one of the most pristine corners of the Earth. Choose from the Routeburn Track, the Kepler Track, the Milford Track, Rob Roy Peak, or dozens of other off the beaten path locations. 

  • Inclusions

    12 nights’ accommodation (1 night Park Hyatt Auckland, 3 nights Huka Lodge, 3 nights Split Apple Retreat, 4 nights Blanket Bay including breakfast daily, 5 lunches and 10 dinners), private car and driver transfers to and from airports and accommodations, private guided hike on Te Henga, admission to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, private guided hike on the Tongariro Crossing, private guided hike and cruise through Abel Tasman National Park, private guided helihike on the Heaphy Track, private helicopter excursion to Milford Sound, your choice of private guided hiking in the Queenstown/Fiordland National Park region.

South Island Hiking and Biking

Hike and mountain-bike your way around the South Island

Travel the length of the South Island and combine some of our best one day hikes with exploration on two wheels. Start in Queenstown where you’ll hike through the moss-laden forests of UNESCO World Heritage listed Fiordland National Park, which contrasts greatly with your next day when you’ll explore the lunar-like Arrowtown back-country by bike. Drive north through the spectacular Mackenzie Country for the famed Hooker Valley Track, surrounded by the Southern Alps and Aoraki Mount Cook. Continue to Christchurch where you’ll walk the crater of a flooded volcano for incredible coastal views. In Marlborough you’ll enjoy more coastal scenery, this time by bike, as you trace your way along Queen Charlotte Track. The next day, have the opportunity for a far more leisurely day on the bike, exploring the Marlborough vineyards. Finish in Nelson where you’ll walk the golden sand beaches of the Abel Tasman Coast Track, and have another opportunity to explore the vineyards or beaches by bike. 

  • Inclusions

    14 nights’ accommodation (4 nights Hulbert House, 2 nights Lakestone Lodge, 2 nights The Observatory, 3 nights The Marlborough and 3 nights Pihopa Retreat including breakfast daily, 5 lunches and 5 dinners), rental vehicle with full insurance, Milford Sound excursion with return scenic flights and shared cruise on the fiord, private guided hike on the Routeburn Track, private guided biking on the Arrowtown Trail, self guided hike on the Hooker Valley Track, private guided Path of the Gods hike on Banks Peninsula, private guided biking on Queen Charlotte Track, private guided Marlborough vineyards cycling tour, private guided hike and cruise in Abel Tasman National Park and private guided biking in the Nelson region.

Walking On Ice

Hiking New Zealand's glaciers

There’s almost an incredible 3000 glaciers to be found throughout New Zealand, mainly on the majestic Southern Alps of the South Island. They carve their way down the mountainsides and in some places, even cut their way through the rainforests below, the only place in the world where this happens. On this journey, circumnavigate the lower South Island and have the opportunity to hike across not one, but two of these priceless glaciers. Starting and finishing in Christchurch, travel aboard the famous TranzAlpine train to the West Coast where you’ll hike the equally as famous Franz Josef Glacier. Continue to Queenstown for visits to Milford Sound and the Mount Aspiring National Park (on the Routeburn Track of course), before heading north through the wonderfully barren Mackenzie Country for another glacier helihike at Aoraki Mount Cook. 

  • Inclusions

    9 nights’ accommodation (1 night The George, 2 nights Rainforest Retreat, 3 nights QT Queenstown, 2 nights The Hermitage, 1 night The George, all including breakfast daily), private car and driver transfers to and from airports and accommodations, TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Greymouth, rental vehicle with full insurance, shared helihike on Franz Josef Glacier, Milford Sound excursion with return scenic flights and shared cruise on the fiord, private guided hike on the Routeburn Track, and shared helihike on the Tasman Glacier.

Extended Explorations

Enjoy two of New Zealand's best multi-day hikes

If you love hiking from hut to hut over several days, this is the journey for you. Start in the northwestern corner of the South Island for the Abel Tasman Coast Track, a wonderful three day walk along the golden sands of the Abel Tasman National Park. The coastline at the next stop of Kaikoura couldn’t be more different, but the rugged and rocky panoramas are just as beautiful. Turn south for Banks Peninsula, where extensive farms cover the clifftops before falling away to the ocean below. Finish in Queenstown for the Hollyford Track where you’ll find views of soaring mountains, rich green rainforests, and the fiords of Fiordland.

  • Inclusions

    14 nights’ accommodation (1 night at Pihopa Retreat, 2 nights on the Abel Tasman Coast Track, 1 night Pihopa Retreat, 2 nights Hapuku Lodge, 2 nights Seascape at Annandale, 3 nights on the Hollyford Track, 3 nights Blanket Bay, including breakfast daily, 5 lunches and 12 dinners), private car and driver transfers to and from airports and accommodations, three day shared guided hike on the Abel Tasman Coast Track, Kaikoura whale watching flight by helicopter, private guided farm tour of Annandale, four day shared guided hike on the Hollyford Track, private helicopter flight from Milford Sound to Blanket Bay, and a shared Dart River jetboating excursion.

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  • Expected Travel Date
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

All details provided by you will be held by Southern Crossings and used in accordance with our privacy policy

We'd love to hear about your dream holiday.