Unlocking the Long Weekend
A Guide to your Long Weekend Getaway at Minaret Station
Minaret Station provides its guests with one of the world’s most unique holiday experiences. Whether a kiwi local looking to explore new corners of your backyard, or an international guest planning your adventure once borders reopen, we are here to inspire in your dream phase.
Day 1: Welcome
With no road access to Minaret Station, the journey to alpine paradise will set the tone for your memorable experience ahead. Gaze over the glacial valley’s and towering peaks as you soar through the southern alps from Queenstown or Wanaka. Your approach to the picturesque Alpine Lodge is sure to leave you without words.
Upon your arrival to the Alpine Lodge, our team will welcome you to your weekend escape. Become acquainted with your new surroundings whilst enjoying a leisurely walk along the valley boardwalk. Take in the humbling setting of the Estuary Burn valley. Adjust your ears to the sound of serenity and sink into a setting where time simply stands still. As the evening light begins to fill the valley our team will invite you to enjoy pre dinner drinks and canapés as one of our Resident Chefs set the stage for a culinary journey that you will embark on over the next three days.Our Produce Defines Our Dishes
Seasonal eating determines the dish selections chosen. Our chefs will plan meals according to guest dietaries and the produce Christine has available during each time of the year. Produce requests are made in small batches to ensure we maintain low waste levels and optimal freshness at the time of enjoyment.
Day 2: Discover the West Coast
After your leisurely morning breakfast, be greeted at the Alpine Lodge by your private helicopter and guide to embark on an incredible scenic helicopter adventure. Flying west from Minaret Station, you will meet friendly faces of local wildlife and discover remote beaches and forests in otherwise untouchable locations. Take in the fresh mountain air and relish in stunning photo opportunities beneath the shadow of the grand Mt. Aspiring. Traverse the brimming waterfalls flowing from the ancient blue glaciers above. As your culinary journey continues, enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch amongst a stunning backdrop.
For guests looking to be active amongst the backcountry, we will tailor you experience to enjoy spectacular hiking in terrain you can only access by helicopter. Wind through pristine beech forests or explore the expanse of rolling ridge lines.
Day 3: Trek
Following your sensory overload experience on the coast, revel in the opportunity to explore Minaret Station further. With over 50,000 acres of terrain, Minaret Station has some stunning hiking trails right on the doorstep to explore with you private guide. Explore atop the ridges of surrounding peaks with helicopter access hiking, or head straight from the Alpine Lodge and explore along the river valley below. Discover native foliage and wildlife along the way as your private guide shares with you the longstanding history of Minaret Station and its surrounds. With food still at the heart of your Minaret Station experience, enjoy a picnic lunch along the way if you wish.
As the southern stars light the evening sky, sink into the relaxation of your chalet’s private spa. With a glass of bubbles or cocktail in hand, soak in the stillness as the tussocks dance in the wind across the valley.
Day 4: Departure
Enjoy a slow start for your final morning at Minaret Station. Indulge in your last gourmet breakfast on the private patio of your chalet savouring the vistas, or alfesco style in the Alpine Lodge. Embark on your scenic helicopter flight back to Queenstown or Wanaka, knowing we look forward to welcoming you back again one day soon.