Explore Wānaka's Hidden Gems with Eco Adventures
At Eco Adventures Wānaka, we’re lucky to call this incredible mountain and lake town home. While Wānaka is small in size, it’s big in experiences, local brands to shop, fresh local food, and of course, endless ways to connect with the outdoors. Here are some of our favourite places to explore when we’re not out on the lake or the trails.
Local Shopping with a Wānaka Story
Wānaka is rightfully wool-obsessed, and it shows in the quality of local design.
Mons Royale – Born from two merino farm kids, Mons Royale blends mountain functionality with modern design. It’s a must-visit for performance clothing that looks good on and off the hill.
Wilson & Dorset – If you love natural textures, don’t miss Wilson & Dorset. Their luxurious sheepskin rugs, beanbags, and homeware bring the softness of Wānaka’s farming heritage into your home.
Coffee Worth Slowing Down For
We’re spoilt for choice when it comes to coffee. A few of our favourites:
Scroggin – Translates in kiwi as ‘trail mix’.
Relishes Café – a classic in town, perfect for lingering around the fire places.
Kai Whaka Pai – pre and post mountain vibes.
Our advice? Try them all – you won’t go wrong.
Where to Eat
Big Fig – A go-to for lunch in the heart of town. Slow food served fast and delicious to boot
Food Trucks on Brownston Street – When you can’t decide, this is the place. Possibly the most beautifully located food truck park in the world, sitting beside a crystal-clear stream and native garden.
A Dip in the Lake
Swimming in Lake Wānaka is refreshing, to say the least. But the shallower waters along the front beach warm up in the sun, making it the perfect place to take the edge off and dive in.
Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, Wānaka has a way of drawing you into its rhythm – a mix of adventure, relaxation, and connection with the land. These are just a few of the places we love most, and we hope you’ll enjoy them as much as we do.