Walking, hiking and tramping around Akaroa and Banks Peninsula
Image: Kevin Prince
La Rochelle is your ideal base for exploring the beautiful Banks Peninsula on foot.
We are conveniently located close to many of the scenic walks and world-class hikes in the area, with several starting within walking distance from our doorstep. Take a day trip up into the hills, around the bays and beaches, and return in the evening to all your creature comforts. Or if you have a vehicle at your disposal, there are some truly breathtaking multi-day tramps just a short drive away.
Image: bankspeninsulawalks.co.nz
Banks Track
One of the best private walks in the country, taking you on a two- or three-day nature trek with incredible views of the entire peninsula. The pick up point for Banks Track is at 80 Rue Lavaud, just five minutes’ walk from La Rochelle.
Woodills Track
A popular half day loop walk, starting just down the road from our motel on Rue Grehan (Woodills South) or on Woodills Road (Woodills North). Combine the Woodills North and Woodills South tracks for a two-to-three-hour walk with stunning views over Akaroa. There are also some worthy detours along this route, including Heritage Park and Curry Track, which can elevate this beautiful Banks Peninsula hike to a full-day circuit.
Skyline Circuit and Misty Peaks
This full-day hike starts in the township at Rue Balguerie, approximately ten minutes’ walk from La Rochelle. For an easier option, you can drive to Brocherie Trail Head for a two-hour loop around the peak, or drive to Stony Bay Road Trail Head for one and a half hours return. If you prefer to spend a full day exploring Banks Peninsula’s incredible landscape, combine the Skyline Circuit with Misty Peaks, which will take between five and eight hours and gives some spectacular harbour views. Return to Akaroa via Lighthouse Road and enjoy a relaxing evening in your comfortable accommodation.
Walking around Akaroa
There are several shorter scenic walks close to Akaroa that offer the perfect opportunity to explore some of Banks Peninsula’s hidden gems. A pleasant walk around the waterfront and through Akaroa’s centre will lead you to Aylmere Valley Road and a gentle one-hour return walk to Newtons Falls. The beginning point for the Childrens Bay Farm Walkway is a convenient eight-minute stroll from La Rochelle, and the walk takes you past some delightful sculptures as well as presenting beautiful views of Akaroa Harbour. Other short walks around Akaroa include the Garden of Tane, French Cemetery, the Lighthouse and Monument walk, Stanley Park, and Garden Graveyards.