TRAVEL DIARY: DAY 7
DAYTRIP TO GLENORCHY
We set off bright and early from our place on Gorge Street in Queenstown, excited for the day ahead.
First stop is the Wilson Bay Reserve. Wilson Bay is a nice little lookout on the road between Queenstown and Glenorchy.
Still on the winding road to Glenorchy.
Jack and I randomly decided to pull over and start walking toward this off-the-beaten-path place—we honestly had no clue where we were heading.
To our surprise, it felt like we’d wandered straight into a slice of heaven.”
We lingered there for a while, taking in the magic of the moment. I called my kids to share the beauty of this hidden gem we’d just discovered.
Then we got back on the road, hearts a little fuller.
Then we arrived at our destination- Glenorchy. The red shed by the wharf isn’t just a photo spot—it’s a piece of history. Once a goods depot for steamships during the gold rush era, it connected Glenorchy to Queenstown when the lake was the only way in. Now, it is there as a famous landmark, the mountains surrounding it.
Glenorchy took me by surprise. I thought it would just be another scenic stop—but something about the calm, the reflections on the lake, and the mountains all around made it feel really special. I could’ve stayed there for hours.
We passed by the Glenorchy Library and a wooden book exchange.
Then here I was looking back at the snow capped mountains as we made our way back to Queenstown.
Hubby and I were starving around (late) lunchtime when we came across this cool café right on Glenorchy–Queenstown Road.
Mrs Woolly’s General Store truly lives up to its name — a delightful treasure trove where you’ll find anything and everything from artful gifts and fresh, delicious food to paintings for sale and everyday stuff.
And then on one end it had a locked door all covered with art.
And the inquisitive me tried to open the door and surprisingly it opened. This was on the other side of it.
And wow, there was a garden, a tool shed and some doors and chairs on the grounds.
There are also lovely public art in the front of the cafe.
Made one last stop to stroll beneath the shade of towering trees and soak in the peaceful views.
Jo’s Monday Walk
Dan’s Thursday Doors Challenge
Xingfumama’s Pull Up a Seat Challenge
Natalie’s Photographing Public Art Challenge
It’s just glorious, Teresa. What a beautiful place. And I love your nosiness, opening doors. Thanks for sharing. Have a great week! xx
Thanks Jo. Jack was stopping me but I persisted haha Enjoy your break!
Good lass! xx
Slice of heaven for sure, Teresa. I’ll never forget my road trip around the south island of NZ. Missed Glenorchy, though, so great to get your photos
Any part of South Island is a piece of heaven. Thanks Coral, glad you liked it.
I especially liked that colorful door and those mountains.
Thanks Frank, so grateful for your comment.
It looks wonderful, and of course you have found some lovely doors. Always got to love a community book exchange.
Always happy to share my finds. Thanks Scooj.
Wow! Theresa, this was such a great trip. The lake views on the way to your destination are amazing. I love the doors and the photos from inside the general store. How cool that that last door opened and revealed even more!
The door is amazing right? And the view outside was as awesome. Thanks Dan.
Those lakeside scenes are so beautiful and tranquil, no wonder they made you happy 😀
Yes I was so happy being with nature.
Teresa, Stunning scenery and beautiful art finds at Mrs. Woolly’s General Store in Glenorchy. I like the weathered look of the doors and walls. Thank you for sharing.
Always on the look out, Natalie. Thanks, the scenery is really inspiring.
We were planning to take a day trip to Gelnorchy, but ended up staying longer in Milford Sound so had to cut this out of our itinerary. It’s too bad as it looks so charming. Beautiful set of shots.
It is beautiful but I guess staying longer in Milford Sound wasn’t a bad idea either. Thanks for commenting.
Utterly beautiful.
Thanks a lot ❤️
Wonderful area. The town looks like great fun to explore.