Bespoke Guided High Country Hiking

Exploring Marlborough’s Wilderness: A Guided High-Country Hike

Blenheim, New Zealand, isn’t just about wine — it’s a gateway to some of the most breathtaking landscapes you can imagine. The Bespoke Guided High Country Hiking tour offers a rare chance to explore over 6,000 acres of private farmland, far from the crowds and well off the beaten path. For around $299 per person, you’ll spend about five hours immersed in nature, with a knowledgeable guide, a gourmet packed lunch, and stunning views over the Marlborough region.

What we love most about this experience is the personal touch — your guide is not only well-versed in local farming, animals, and native flora but also eager to customize your hike to your interests and fitness level. Plus, the included farm-style morning tea and gourmet lunch bring a welcome touch of comfort to the outdoor adventure. One potential consideration? You’ll want to bring suitable hiking boots and weather-appropriate clothing, as the weather can change quickly in the high country.

This tour suits those who enjoy authentic, off-the-beaten-path outdoor experiences, appreciate local knowledge, and want a flexible, private adventure tailored to their pace. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a scenic day out with good company and excellent food, this trip offers real value — and plenty of unforgettable views.

Key Points

• Private, Customizable Experience: Your guide tailors the hike to your interests and fitness level.
• Unspoiled Landscapes: Explore private farmland rarely visited by others, with panoramic views over Marlborough.
• Authentic Local Knowledge: Guides share insights into high-country farming, native plants, and animals.
• Gourmet Food & Refreshments: Enjoy farm-style morning tea and a gourmet packed lunch, with options for dietary needs.
• All-Inclusive Gear: Walking poles and day packs available, so you can focus on the scenery.
• Weather Flexibility: The tour can be rescheduled or refunded if weather conditions are poor.

The Itinerary: A Day in the High Country

The tour begins at 9:30 am at Aschworth Homestead, a charming base nestled in the Marlborough countryside. Here, you’ll be greeted with a farm-style morning tea, offering a warm start before a quick briefing from your guide, who will fill you in on the day’s plans. The homestead’s gardens are worth a leisurely wander, giving you a gentle preview of the natural beauty ahead.

At 10:30 am, the real adventure begins. You’ll depart on foot for a bespoke guided hike across private high-country farmland, covering over 6,000 acres of rugged, seldom-visited terrain. Your guide, a wealth of local knowledge, will lead you along winding trails and open paddocks, sharing stories of local farming, native flora, and animal life along the way.

What makes this walk distinctive is the emphasis on personalization. Your guide can adjust the pace, focus on specific interests, or explore areas that catch your eye. The landscape is dotted with wildflowers and native plants, and you might spot farm animals grazing peacefully in the distance.

Around midday, you’ll pause for a gourmet packed lunch. You can expect a thoughtfully prepared lunchbox filled with quality ingredients, offering a break amid awe-inspiring views. Many travelers appreciate how the lunch adds a touch of luxury to the outdoor experience, making it feel more like a special occasion.

By approximately 1:30 pm, you’ll return to the homestead, ending your adventure with a relaxed walk back. The tour wraps up around 2 pm, leaving you with memories and photos of some of the most scenic high-country landscapes in Marlborough.

The Included Details: Comfort and Convenience

This tour thoughtfully packs in everything you need for a full day outdoors. Walking poles and a day pack are available upon request, easing the strain on your legs and shoulders. Hot beverages like coffee and tea keep you warm and alert, while snacks during morning tea help sustain your energy.

The gourmet lunch is a highlight — a carefully curated, filling meal that elevates the outdoor experience from simple to memorable. Dietary requirements can be accommodated, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

One important note is that bottled water isn’t included, so you’ll want to bring your own water bottle or hydration system to stay refreshed throughout the hike. Proper footwear, like hiking boots or shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing are essential; the weather in high-country terrain can change rapidly, so packing a rain jacket is a wise move.

The Meeting Point and Practicalities

The tour begins promptly at 9:30 am at the CR5R+J9 Fairhall meeting point, situated conveniently in the Marlborough region. This is a private, group-exclusive experience, so you won’t have to share the trail with strangers. The entire experience is designed for flexibility and personal attention.

Since the tour is weather-dependent, it’s worth noting that if poor weather cancels the trip, you will be offered a full refund or a chance to reschedule. The tour requires moderate physical fitness, so those with mobility issues or limited stamina should consider this before booking.

Authentic Experiences and Real Feedback

While there are no reviews yet, the structure and features of this tour suggest it appeals to travelers who want a personalized, authentic outdoor experience in Marlborough’s high country. The emphasis on knowledgeable guides and scenic privacy is likely to resonate with those seeking a genuine connection to the landscape.

The inclusion of gourmet food adds a layer of comfort, making it suitable not just for serious hikers but also for those who prefer a more relaxed, scenic outing with good company and excellent local cuisine.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you enjoy guided hikes that combine stunning natural beauty with a personal touch, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for those who want to explore off-the-beaten-path without sacrificing comfort. It’s also a smart choice for travelers who appreciate local knowledge, want flexible options, and are prepared for a moderate physical challenge.

For anyone looking for a tailored outdoor experience that offers more than just a walk — including insightful stories, gourmet food, and exclusive access — this is a strong contender. It’s ideal if you’re visiting Marlborough and craving a meaningful adventure that showcases the region’s wild beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the tour duration?
It lasts approximately five hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending around 2 pm.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The experience requires moderate physical fitness. It’s designed to be flexible, but you should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain.

What should I bring?
You should bring a water bottle, wear hiking boots or shoes, and pack a rain jacket and weather-appropriate clothing.

Are dietary requirements accommodated?
Yes, the gourmet packed lunch can be tailored to meet any dietary needs, ensuring everyone is satisfied.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes guided hiking, walking poles, morning tea, gourmet lunch, coffee/tea, and a day pack on request.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a full refund or a reschedule.

In The Sum Up

This Bespoke Guided High Country Hiking tour offers a rare chance to see Marlborough’s wild side with a personal touch. Its combination of private farmland, expert guides, and gourmet meals makes it more than just a walk — it’s an authentic, memorable slice of New Zealand’s high-country life. It’s best suited for travelers who want to escape the crowds, enjoy meaningful scenery, and receive tailored insights into the land.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie at heart, or simply craving a peaceful day amidst stunning vistas, this tour delivers good value and genuine connection to Marlborough’s untouched landscape. Just remember to pack your boots and rain jacket — and prepare for a day filled with natural beauty and local stories.