Upper Cobb Valley

Journey to a unique area of bush, lakes and alpine views

Mt Xenicus and the upper Cobb River

Duration: between 2 and 6 days

Viewing Mt Xenicus from the open tops above Fenella Hut

Trip Features

Following the drive from Motueka over Takaka Hill and up to the Cobb reservoir, our first day is a 5-hour walk up the wide glacial formed Cobb Valley. The last section entails a 1-hour steeper section to Fenella Hut.

Fenella Hut is beautifully sited and constructed, making it one of the favourites among New Zealand trampers as well as overseas visitors. We will spend 2 or 3 nights here, returning back down the valley on the final day.

On days 2 and 3, your guides will take you on a variety of day hikes, visiting the scenic gems of the area. These may include a climb of Waingaro Peak, Mt Gibbs, Mt Aorere or Kakapo Peak; a visit to Lake Cobb and Round Lake; or a visit to the edge of the Tasman Wilderness area with a view down to the pristine Island Lake. The alpine vegetation varies from tussock lands and rock gardens to sub alpine forest containing magnificent specimens of Dracophyllum traversii trees. Near the hut is a beautiful pristine swimming tarn.

Additional days may be combined with our Mount Arthur Tablelands page itinerary.

Fenella Hut is a welcoming harbour after a hard day's tramping

Trip Facts

Duration: 2 to 6 days
Fitness level: Average

Upper Cobb Valley Pricing

Fully serviced option:

Prices per person, including all food, cottage fees and transfers:

2 days $700
3 days $1050
4 days $1300
5 days $1500
6 days $1700

Self catered option (minimum 4 persons):

3 days 4-7 persons $450; 8-10 persons $400
4 days 4-7 persons $525; 8-10 persons $450

"A fantastic 7-day hike on Mt Arthur Tableland and on to Fenella Hut. Thanks to the guides, I managed to scale Mt Xenicus and on to the Peel Range to see Island Lake on the right and Round Lake on the left. Wonderful weather till the very last moment, no doubt due to the wonderful planning by Bush and Beyond."
Teri Tan - Singapore