Posted: February 4, 2025Categories: Enjoy, Night Sky, Uncategorized

48 Hours in Lake Hāwea

Nestled in the Southern Alps of New Zealand, Lake Hāwea is a hidden gem offering serenity, adventure, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re seeking an outdoor escape or a peaceful retreat, this 48-hour weekend itinerary will help you experience the best of this hidden gem. Staying at the luxurious Cross Hill Geodomes, you’ll enjoy the perfect base to explore this stunning area. With Valentines Day just around the corner, this takes all of the thinking out of your perfect escape so you can relish in the moment.

Why Visit Lake Hāwea?

Located less than 15 minutes from Wanaka, Lake Hāwea is the perfect South Island getaway for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Whether you prefer an adventure packed weekend or rest and relaxation is more your style, Hāwea is the perfect balance of tranquillity and adventure activities. Lake Hāwea boasts arguably some of the bluest waters and untouched scenic vistas without having to be in the middle of nowhere. It’s the perfect location for water sports, you’ll find plenty of hiking and biking trails, plus it’s only 1hr from Queenstown International Airport.

2 female hikers on Breast Hill, Lake Hawea NZ

Friday Afternoon & Evening

Check-In, Walk and Dinner

Kick off your weekend with a warm welcome from our team at Cross Hill Geodomes. Nestled among native bush, these luxurious domes offer panoramic views of Lake Hāwea and the surrounding mountains. Unwind with a bottle of renowned Central Otago wine, sourced from one of the local vineyards, and savour it on the deck out the front of your private geodome oasis.

Before dinner, take a relaxing walk along the Hāwea River Walkway. This easy, scenic track meanders through peaceful riverside landscapes, offering glimpses of the turquoise lake and the snow-capped peaks beyond. Cross Hill Geodomes offers local produce and paddock to plate inspired cuisine with a a three-course degustation experience fit for kings.

Lamb chops dish & salmon dish at Cross Hill Geodomes, Lake Hawea NZ

Stargazing at the Geodomes

Return to your geodome for a magical evening under the stars with a legendary Sweet Treats Platter from The Camp Food Truck, located on-site, ready for stargazing. With minimal light pollution, Lake Hāwea offers some of the clearest night skies in New Zealand, making it the perfect spot for stargazing.

Bring a blanket to your own personal deck, or watch the stars from inside your Geodome. With a unique window design that extends up and around the dome, you can enjoy unobstructed views of the night sky while keeping the curtains closed for privacy. This clever feature ensures you can relax in comfort, surrounded by the beauty of the stars above, without compromising on seclusion.

Cross Hill Geodomes milky way night sky, Lake Hawea NZ

Saturday

Morning: Take a Hike

After you’ve fuelled yourself with breakfast, start your Saturday with an invigorating hike – Hāwea is a hikers paradise! There are plenty of hiking trails nearby to suit any ability or time constraints.

Our favourite hikes are:

  • Isthmus Peak Track: A challenging 16 km return hike with jaw-dropping views of Lake Hāwea and Lake Wānaka. Allow 5-6 hours for this rewarding adventure – the view from the top is definitely worth it and much less crowded compared to Roy’s Peak.
  • Gladstone Track: For a gentler option, this lakeside trail is perfect for stunning views without the climb. This easy walking and biking track is 6.5km and will take 1-2 hours to complete and is less crowded than other popular lakefront trails in the area. You can rent a bike through us or on the PlanIt App using the code “CROSSHILL”.

View from Isthmus Peak, South Island NZ

Midday: Picnic by the Lake

There are so many pristine and secluded picnic spots around Lake Hāwea – head to Hāwea’s new supermarket for some picnic snacks before setting out on your adventure. If you’d prefer to steer clear of the heavy lifting, you can swing by The Camp Food Truck or talk to us about organising a picnic ready at your destination with My Secret Picnic (if you’re popping that big question this valentines day, this is the perfect setting).

My Secret Picnic by Lake Hawea, NZ

Afternoon: Lake, Sauna and Wine

Make the most of Lake Hāwea’s crystal-clear waters – take a dip in the glacier-fed lake, get out on your paddle board/kayak or read a book by the shores. For those who prefer the adventure, make sure to check out surfing in Hāwea (you heard that right). YourWave is an artificial surfing wave nearby which is perfect for all abilities, while expert surfers and white-water kayakers head to The Hāwea Wave.

The Secret Sauna is located on-site overlooking the lake and can be booked privately or as a shared session. Not only is it great for your health, it’s a great way to relax and unwind after your morning adventure – maximize the benefits of your sauna experience by taking a refreshing dip in the lake between sessions.

On Saturday afternoon, indulge in a Private Wine Tour around the Wānaka region, where you’ll visit local vineyards and sample award-winning wines. Tailored to your preferences, this exclusive tour offers a relaxed way to discover the region’s best wines while enjoying the stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps. It’s a perfect way to unwind and savour the flavours of the area.

The Secret Sauna at The Camp, Lake Hawea NZ

Evening: Dinner and Wood-Fired Hot Tub

Eating is part of your experience, and dining at Cross Hill is a true reflection of the region’s rich culinary heritage. Sourced from the family-owned Glen Dene Station, known for its premium grass-fed venison, beef, and lamb from the high country and lakeside pastures, each meal celebrates the finest local ingredients.

After dinner, unwind in the private hot tub, where you can soak in the warmth while enjoying the stunning vistas. The wood-fired hot tub offers a luxurious, relaxing experience with the perfect touch of local craftsmanship. Packages including access to the hot tub are available, or you can choose to book the hot tub separately for a truly indulgent evening.

couple watching sunset from wood fired hot tub at Cross Hill Geodomes NZ

Sunday

Scenic Morning Flight

Start your Sunday with the Siberia Experience, a scenic flight over the Southern Alps, landing in the remote Siberia Valley. Explore this pristine wilderness with a guided hike, offering stunning views and the chance to immerse yourself in one of New Zealand’s most untouched landscapes. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and breathtaking scenery to kick off your last day.

Siberia experience in Otago, NZ

Last Stop: Distillery Tour and Horse Trekking

On your way to Queenstown International Airport, you’ll pass Cardrona Distillery. You can enjoy a relaxing tasting experience of their craft spirits in a scenic setting – their award winning spirits makes a great souvenir of that perfect weekend away.

For a unique adventure, embark on a guided horse trek with Cardrona Horse Trekking. This experience takes you through beautiful landscapes, from rolling hills to serene lakes, offering a peaceful yet exhilarating way to explore the area. You can book the trek as part of a package, making it an unforgettable addition to your weekend.

Group horse trekking in Cardrona Valley, Otago NZ

There are plenty of experiences in the region, no matter your pace of exploring. Ready for your 48-hour escape? Book your stay at Cross Hill Geodomes and start planning your Lake Hāwea adventure today.

 

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