A world-class wilderness adventure that's right in the backyard!

Otago Daily Times

2 days ago

The adventure that you've been craving is on your doorstep, with the amazing Hollyford Wilderness Experience in Fiordland.
Hollyford Wilderness Experience business manager Adam Dooney was inspired by many things when he first did the guided multi-day walk.
Along with the stunning scenery, it was the guides and the hosting staff at the lodges along the way that impressed him most.
'I did not expect the quality of delivery, and how much passion and intimacy they bring to the experience,' he says.
A true adventure, the all-inclusive Hollyford Wilderness Experience is extremely accessible to most walkers
The unforgettable three night experience was a winner of Trip Advisor's Travellers' Choice Award in 2024, ranking it as one of the world's top attractions.
Yet while international travellers visit for such experiences, many locals aren't aware of what's on offer right here.
For those mature travellers in the lower South Island looking for an accessible adventure, the Hollyford Wilderness Experience is the perfect choice.
The low altitude walk will take you from the mountains to the sea, and includes spectacular transfers by jet boat and helicopter.
Small groups of no more than 16 people are led by engaging local guides. The experience is coloured by their rich storytelling that takes in both the natural history, and that of Ngāi Tahu and early European pioneers.
And comfort is not compromised on the Hollyford Wilderness Experience. You'll only carry the essentials, while well-appointed private lodges deep in the native forest offer private rooms, hearty cuisine, outdoor hot tubs, and warm hospitality.
Adam Dooney says it's the entire experience that separates the Hollyford Wilderness Experience from other options in the area.
'It's not just another walk, it's a full experience,' he emphasises. 'The Hollyford is one of the most beautiful valleys in Fiordland. You see everything from the foothills of some of Fiordland's largest mountains, through the beech forests, and out to the coastal environment of the West Coast.'
Walkers will be deeply immersed in the hugely diverse natural environment of this incredible part of Aotearoa.
The extremely knowledgeable guides weave stories of the area throughout the walk. This includes the Hollyford's history as a pounamu trail, historical Ngāti Mahaki pā at Martins Bay, and the proposed European settlement of Jamestown from the Goldrush era.
'Our staff absolutely love the place and enjoy sharing it with people,' Adam says. 'Some have been working for us for 25 years, so there's a lot of knowledge and a lot of passion there. What shines through is the connection between our customers and staff, and that's what really brings the whole place to life for everybody.'
What is on offer with the Hollyford Wilderness Experience is sure to appeal to an emerging segment of the adventure market who are focused on quality.
They're looking for something different, a more fulfilling experience that they emerge from richer than when they went in.
As Adam says, it's amazing what we have on our back doorstep in this country - and particularly in this region.
'Fiordland and the Hollyford Valley are right there for the taking,' he marvels. 'These walks are so accessible for many people, and on an international basis they offer great value for money.'
Anyone looking for a superb experience should visit www.hollyfordtrack.com for more information, or have a chat with one of the reservation team on 0800 832 226.