Adventures in Paradise was born out of a love for travel, the natural environment, and the beauty of the enchanting village of Glenorchy. This tiny town has been attracting visitors to the head of Lake Wakatipu since the first settlers arrived in 1861 and people continue to be drawn to this magical place today. Surrounded by towering mountains, braided rivers, deep-blue lakes and lush beech forests, Glenorchy is a true slice of paradise.
In 2018, Debbi and Paul Brainerd, the founders of Adventures in Paradise, created The Headwaters Eco Lodge at Camp Glenorchy: A warm, welcoming, state-of-the-art net positive energy accommodation, to inspire, educate and delight their guests. The following year, TIME Magazine placed it among its Top 100 Places to Visit in the World, only one of 44 accommodation properties worldwide to earn this recognition.
The all-new Adventures in Paradise experiences —with The Headwaters Eco Lodge as your home base for comfort and discovery— is their next step in a journey to help guests discover how fulfilling restorative slow tourism can be. Join us in exploring the natural beauty of Glenorchy's rugged landscape, and the remarkable people who live and work here.
Our experiences open a special door to exploring the most stunning locations in the region and connecting you with the Glenorchy community and its friendly locals.
If you are looking for the best way to experience New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes, join us for this perfect weekend Getaway! We have crafted the ultimate all-inclusive weekend giving you a chance to unwind, reconnect with nature and enjoy amazing meals prepared by our fabulous chefs!
From private heli access into magical hiking locations to intimate fireside tasting experiences and exquisite dining with some of the best chefs, this best-of-everything getaway showcases some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes.
Enjoy a world less touched by human footprint. This breathtaking 4-night getaway combines the most beautiful hikes, the freshest meals, and the most extraordinary locations where few get to go. Venture into a private sheep farm, and into a World Heritage Park, taking in the diverse landscapes of an ancient beech forest, braided rivers, and glacier-carved valleys.
Experience the lure of a variety of adventures within our outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Set within glacial carved valleys and towering mountain ranges, Glenorchy occupies a unique place with awe-inspiring landscapes and brutal beauty.
Press ‘pause’ and refresh with this four-day regenerative experience in our charming, cosy lodge, located in one of the most spectacular locations in New Zealand. Open the door to increased vitality and give yourself tools that can build lasting personal health.
The choices we make around what to eat and drink are central to our overall well-being. Our Adventures in Paradise menus and tasting experiences include fresh, tasty, locally-sourced foods, wines, craft beers and beverages that change with the seasons and connect us both to our bodies as well as to our sense of place and community.
Described by former Prime Minister Bill English as a 'national treasure', The Headwaters Eco Lodge is your home away from home. There are so many delightful and exquisite creative details woven throughout this property, you'll need the full length of your stay to fully appreciate its artisan-crafted nature and how incredibly welcoming and comfortable state-of-the-art sustainable accommodations can be.
The small rural village of Glenorchy is a quintessential New Zealand community, set at the confluence of two rivers and several mountain ranges at the head of sparkling Lake Wakatipu. Here, we wake up each morning to the soaring natural beauty that surrounds us and give thanks for another day with our wonderful guests as well as the gift of being part of this remarkable, resilient community.
From the creators of The Headwaters Eco Lodge comes Adventures in Paradise. Join us on an all-inclusive, handcrafted Getaway showcasing the best of the most beautiful place in the country.
Tailored to you and your interests, these programs are hosted by local legends keen to share their experiences with you. Topics include Glenorchy cultural history, art by NZ artists, the wonders of nature nearby, photography, sustainability, food, wine - you name it!
The grounds at The Headwaters Eco Lodge have been extensively landscaped with native plants to invite the return of native birds to the township. You too will have the option to leave a bit of yourself behind while giving back to the Glenorchy community by planting your very own native tree or shrub at a landscape restoration project nearby.
While you're with us, you can opt to participate in gentle morning yoga classes before you start your day, or choose an optional soothing afternoon massage after your day's adventures. Your heart will thank you for making the time to decompress a bit and breathe a little deeper in Glenorchy's fresh mountain air.