Nestled in the sheltered harbor of Marlborough Sounds, Picton is the starting point for adventures in turquoise waters. Perched in prime location on the sunny peak of New Zealand’s South Island, winter’s chill never fully hits and guests can enjoy a balmy climate all year round. Check out all the (e)pic activities you can take part in Picton in your rental car!
For our wine aficionados, you’ll jump at a wine tour, not to mention a luxury and gourmet one at that. Only 24km away from Picton in your rental car, there are over 80 different wineries to choose from in the Marlborough region. Marlborough Tour Company offers a full day “Taste Marlborough Tour”, ensuring a fabulous day out with boutique food, cafes, and of course, all the wines. Even better, a Greenshell Mussel Cruise is also available. Sample delicately steamed mussels washed down with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc; can anything sound better than that?
Picton also offers the best New Zealand dolphin experience. Rather than view the dolphins from afar, take the opportunity to swim with them in their natural habitat. Not to worry, the waters of the Sound are extremely calm with no sea swell, so seasickness shouldn’t be a problem. Located in the vicinity of Picton, E-Ko Tours are easily accessible by rental car. Not limited to dolphins, expect a bevy of other marine life, from fur seals to penguins, as this unspoilt area is home to many local marine mammals. Animal lovers out there, don’t miss this!
For those looking for adventure in the wilderness, sea kayaking might be your cup of tea. Aided by the Wilderness Guides, leave the harbor environs to the truly spectacular end of the Sound where boat traffic diminishes. Admire pristine bays and explore untouched coves teeming with wildlife. The kayak begins from Picton Waterfront, again very accessible by rental car. Adventurers have a high chance of spotting stingrays, eagle rays and ginormous starfish, along with a huge variety of sea birds, including cormorants and blue penguins.
More adventure can be found along the Queen Charlotte Track. Rapidly increasing in popularity as the finest and most diverse coastal trek in the country, walkers will definitely enjoy a hike through this eco-haven. What’s more, the area is steeped in rich Maori and European history, and boasts luxuriant local flora and fauna. We expect the hour-long drive from Picton to fly by in your rental car as you admire the passing lush greenery. Luxury boutique lodges with superior accommodation are also available with an emphasis on gourmet food and wine.
If you haven’t noticed already, Picton is very much a foodie’s paradise. Zip down in your rental car to the heart of Picton where many little treasures lie. There are a few bakeries, especially Picton Village Bakkerij, where they roll out pastries that are simply to die for. Dutch-owned, trays after trays of European goodies roll out their oven doors fresh every day. Expect filled rolls, custardy cakes and tarty treats galore. Don’t forget to ask for the savoury pies because they are fingerlicking good; try chicken, chili and cream cheese – a winning combination, if there was ever one.
Picton is a city teeming with good food, good fun and even better people. It deserves a road trip adventure, don’t you think?
