Winter Fun In Selwyn
For The Whole Family
Nestled in the heart of Canterbury is the Selwyn District, a magical region in winter. Explore landscapes adorned with glistening snow-capped mountains, charming alpine villages, and thrilling winter activities. Indulge in exhilarating ski adventures on pristine slopes, warm up by crackling fireplaces in cosy accommodations, and savour delicious comfort food in local eateries. The Selwyn District offers an unforgettable family winter getaway and we have just the itinerary for you!
Day One
No adventure should start on an empty stomach. Make your way to Langdale Vineyard and take a seat overlooking their beautiful, sheltered garden. You’ll find many Middle Eastern-inspired platters, plus kids' menu options to keep everyone happy.
Continue up State Highway 73 and you’ll find yourself at Rubicon Valley Horse Treks. Explore a Selwyn high country sheep farm on horseback, led by experienced guides, discovering stunning landscapes around every corner.
On your return to the main highway, double back to Springfield. No trip here is complete without stopping for a photo at the Springfield Donut, gifted to the town to honour their shared name with the hometown of cartoon family, The Simpsons.
With plenty of opportunities to stop for a photo on your way up the mountains, be sure to stop at the Porters Pass Viewpoint, and Pippa's Lookout on the shores of Lake Lyndon. Eventually, you’ll reach Porters Lodge, your destination for the night. After checking in and a walk in the brisk mountain air, you’ll be about ready for dinner.
Day Two
Are you ready to hit the slopes? Porters Alpine Resort can sort you out with a day pass, your ski and snowboard hire, and even a lesson if it’s been a while since you were last on a mountain. Beginners will find plenty of gentle runs designed to acclimate you to the alps, while experienced skiers and snowboarders will be challenged on their advanced trails.
Return your gear and enjoy a late lunch at Porters Lodge before heading up the road to Kura Tāwhiti Conservation Area. This stunning national park may be familiar to you from the 2005 blockbuster movie, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. The distinctive limestone rock formations are popular with rock climbers and make for stunning scenery along the Kura Tāwhiti Access Track, an easy 20-minute walk. Also known as Castle Hill, this area holds deep cultural significance for local iwi Ngāi Tahu, so please treat it with respect.
Day Three
If you’re up for one of the best walks in all of the South Island, take a quick trip up to the Devils Punchbowl Waterfall. The well-formed 2km path is considered easy, and at a brisk pace should only take you between 45 minutes to an hour return. The views, spray, and noise from the 131-metre-high waterfall make the excursion more than worthwhile.
Take State Highway 73 south, back the way you’ve come. As soon as you cross Broken River, hang a right onto Mount Cheeseman Ski Field Road and continue your way to the top of the mountain. Mount Cheeseman is another family-friendly ski field and children under 10 years old ski for free! Plus, you can pick up where you left off with another ski or snowboarding lesson to maintain your skills.
Take it easy on the drive home, as everyone will be exhausted from an epic three days of fun and adventure.
