Queenstown: Walter Peak Horse Trek & Queenstown Lake Cruise

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Introduction

This experience combines the best of Queenstown’s natural beauty with a touch of rural charm, offering a relaxing cruise across Lake Whakatipu paired with an easygoing horse trek at Walter Peak High Country Farm. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-rounded day out that appeals to many travelers.

What makes this trip particularly attractive are the spectacular lake views, the gentle horseback ride suitable for beginners, and the delicious food that rounds off the day. A potential consideration is that it’s designed for those comfortable with moderate outdoor activity and who meet the height and weight restrictions.

This tour suits families, beginners, and anyone looking for a peaceful yet scenic outing that combines a bit of adventure with comfort and good company.

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Key Points

Beautiful scenery throughout the lake cruise and farm trek
Suitable for beginners with easy, relaxed riding
Small group size enhances personalized attention
Includes morning or afternoon tea, often praised for its quality
Offers stunning views from the Walter Peak lookout
Value for money with varied experiences in one tour

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An Overview of the Experience

This 3.5-hour adventure offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, gentle riding, and relaxing moments. Starting with a round-trip cruise on either the vintage TSS Earnslaw steamer or a sleek modern catamaran, you’ll glide across Lake Whakatipu, soaking in views that are simply breathtaking. The vessel choice impacts the atmosphere—nostalgic charm with the TSS Earnslaw or contemporary comfort with the Spirit of Queenstown.

Once arriving at Walter Peak, you’ll meet your horse and guide for a 40-45 minute trek through lush farmland. The horses are suitable for all levels, including first-timers, thanks to the patient, knowledgeable guides. The ride is described as a “gentle plod,” making it accessible for anyone who’s comfortable with wearing closed-toe shoes and long pants but might not have prior riding experience.

After your ride, you’ll visit the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant for afternoon or morning tea, featuring freshly baked scones, muffins, and beverages. Several reviews mention the delicious scones and warm hospitality as a highlight. Before heading back, you’re encouraged to explore the farmyard and gardens, adding a charming farm experience to the day.

The return trip on the boat offers a relaxed finish, allowing you to reflect on the scenery and enjoy the historic ambiance of the steamship or the modern comfort of the catamaran.

The Scenic Lake Cruise

The Lake Whakatipu cruise is a cornerstone of this experience. The 45-minute sail to Walter Peak sets the tone with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and water reflections. The TSS Earnslaw, launched in 1912, is a highlight for history buffs and those who appreciate a vintage vibe, while the Spirit of Queenstown offers a smoother, more modern ride.

Guests frequently mention that the cruise models the perfect way to start or end the day—relaxing, scenic, and peaceful. As one reviewer noted, “The cruise ship was spectacular,” and many appreciate the informative guides onboard who share stories about the ship’s history and the landscape.

The Horse Trek: A Gentle Ride through Stunning Countryside

The horse trek is designed as a highlight for many, especially for those who want to enjoy Queenstown’s high country without the need for riding expertise. Guides like “Thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience” and “the chosen horse was great” suggest a well-run operation with caring staff.

The easy pace allows you to take in the scenery—rolling farmland, mountain views, and even a lookout point—without feeling hurried or overwhelmed. It’s ideal for families with children aged 7 and up, as well as older travelers who might be trying riding for the first time.

Reviewers have described the ride as “a really nice slow plod,” which emphasizes the laid-back nature of the activity. This is not an adrenaline rush but rather a chance to connect with nature and enjoy a peaceful ride with expert guidance.

The personalized group size (max 6 people per guide) makes the experience feel intimate, with plenty of opportunity for questions and tailored advice.

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The Farm and Gardens Experience

Post-ride, guests are invited to linger at the Colonel’s Homestead, enjoying morning or afternoon tea. The freshly baked scones—often described as “delicious”—are a big hit, along with muffins and hot drinks. Several reviews note that the food exceeds expectations for a tour this size, emphasizing the value-for-money aspect.

Exploring the gardens and farmyard adds a charming touch, giving visitors a glimpse into rural life in New Zealand’s high country. It’s a relaxed way to wind down after your ride, with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to see farm animals and lush greenery.

There's plenty more to explore in Queenstown

Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Know

For $134 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience with round-trip lake cruise, horse trek, and refreshing tea. The inclusion of live guides ensures you’re well-informed and safe throughout.

What’s important is that the tour maintains small group sizes, limited to 6 participants, which enhances the experience’s personalized feel. The timing options—available in the morning or afternoon—allow you to fit this activity into your itinerary conveniently.

What to bring includes long pants and closed-toe shoes—so dress comfortably for riding. The tour has height restrictions of 120cm minimum, and a maximum weight of 95kg, which ensures safety but could exclude some travelers.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Many guests highlight their guides’ knowledge and friendliness, often mentioning guides like “the lovely guides” who go out of their way to make the experience special. Reviewers also love the stunning views and mention the well-paced ride as perfect for first-timers.

The food and drink are consistently praised, with many saying the afternoon tea hit the spot after a memorable trek. One visitor from the U.S. noted, “The ride was gentle, definitely easy enough for a first timer,” emphasizing that the activity is accessible and inclusive.

Values and Overall Impression

Considering the price, this experience delivers good value—combining scenic transport, gentle riding, and a farm visit with quality food. The small group size adds an exclusive feel, while the scenic vistas and friendly guides create a memorable outing.

While it’s primarily suitable for those comfortable with moderate outdoor activity, the inclusive nature of the ride and the relaxed pace make it appealing to a broad audience, including families and first-timers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for beginners and families seeking a peaceful ride, nature lovers wanting to enjoy Queenstown’s high country, or anyone interested in a relaxed day with scenic views and good food. It’s perfect if you want something that combines light adventure with comfort, history, and stunning landscapes.

However, travelers over 95 kg or under 120 cm should look for alternative options, as safety restrictions are in place.

The Sum Up

The Queenstown: Walter Peak Horse Trek & Lake Cruise offers a delightful blend of spectacular scenery, gentle riding, and farm charm. It’s a well-organized experience that balances relaxation and adventure, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

You’ll love the stunning lake and mountain views, the friendly guides, and the delicious afternoon tea, all wrapped into a manageable 3.5-hour package. For those seeking a laid-back but memorable day out in Queenstown’s high country, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Whether you’re a first-time rider, a family looking for a fun day, or a nature enthusiast, this experience promises a peaceful escape into New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes—without sacrificing comfort or quality.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 7 and above are welcome, provided they meet the height requirement of 120cm. It’s a gentle ride suitable for beginners.

What should I wear for the horse trek?
Long pants and closed-toe shoes are necessary for safety and comfort during the ride.

Can I do this tour if I have no riding experience?
Absolutely. The ride is described as a “slow plod,” making it perfect for first-timers and those not accustomed to riding horses.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the round-trip lake cruise, a 40-45 minute horse trek, and morning or afternoon tea with scones, muffins, and drinks.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
Yes, participants must be at least 120cm tall and weigh no more than 95kg for safety reasons.

What type of boat do I travel on?
You can choose between traveling on the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship or a modern catamaran, depending on your booking option.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience lasts about 3.5 hours, including travel, riding, and farm visit.

Is the group size small?
Yes, groups are limited to 6 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

This well-rounded tour offers the perfect way to enjoy Queenstown’s landscape, rural charm, and friendly atmosphere—all while keeping things relaxed and enjoyable.