It's Summit
Time on the starkly beautiful volcanic plateau. A
journey to the beginning of the world ... and back again for dinner.
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This summer, why not take yourself on an absolutely awesome five day and
four night trekking experience to not just one, but three active volcanoes in the starkly
beautiful Tongariro National Park. |
| By day you'll enjoy expertly guided treks through dramatic lava
landscapes, moving from forest to fields of alpine herbs, and past brilliantly coloured
mineral lakes. Then each evening it's back to the luxurious fireside comforts of The Grand
Chateau, New Zealand's most famous mountain hotel. |
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DAY 1
After checking into the Grand Chateau, you'll receive a full briefing on the treks ahead.
We suggest you visit the Whakapapa Information Centre, one of the best in the country. |
DAY 2
We'll take you to the top of Mt Ruapehu. Ride one of two chair lifts from the car park to
the Knoll Ridge Chalet, New Zealand's highest restaurant, at 2000 metres. From there
you'll walk to Dome Shelter at 2672 metres, where you'll see the famous crater with
majestic Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe in the background. On a good day you can see both
coasts. |
DAY 3
You'll embark on what is known as the best one day walk in New Zealand - the Tongariro
Crossing. Your route takes you past the active Red Crater and onto the brilliantly
coloured Emerald and Blue Lakes |
DAY 4
This is a reserve day, and you can choose from several shorter walks (one in the morning
and one in the afternoon). There are many beautiful treks to pick from, including the
magnificent Taranaki Falls, Silica Rapids, and Tama Lakes. |
DAY 5
After enjoying breakfast at the Grand Chateau, there's time to pack leisurely, before
leaving. |
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| The Grand Chateau was opened in 1929, and
is one of New Zealand's most famous buildings, widely referred to as the 'Grand Old Lady
of the Mountain'. Renowned for its classic elegance, it has recently received a $3,000,000
upgrade and refurbishment programme to ensure that standards are as high as any hotel in
the country. Facilities include a gymnasium, saunas, a heated plunge pool, bar, two
restaurants, including the Ruapehu Room, outstanding conference facilities and a
children's game room. |
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