Marlborough’s Top 5 Must Do’s

Happy customers on our Marlborough wine tours

Marlborough is famous for its beautiful wines, but there’s far more to explore in this beautiful region than just wineries. From cruising the tranquil waters of Marlborough Sounds to exploring the aviation history of Omaka, there’s something for everyone in this stunning part of New Zealand. Here are our top five activities you shouldn’t miss out on during your Marlborough adventure, all while taking in the beauty of the region and enjoying a Bubbly Grape wine tour.

1. The Marlborough Sounds

Marlborough Sounds New Zealand

A picturesque playground of clear waters, pristine beaches and hidden bays, Marlborough Sounds is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Marlborough. Take a leisurely cruise through the beautiful waterways with Beach Comber Cruises, enjoying the stunning scenery as you go. Keep an eye out for dolphins, fur seals, and penguins, and make sure to explore the beautiful shorelines and secluded bays.

2. Omaka Aviation Exhibition

Omaka Aviation - Image by MarlboroughNZ
Omaka Aviation - Image by MarlboroughNZ
Omaka Aviation Exhibition is home to some of the finest vintage aircraft collections and exhibits in the world.
 
The museum showcases the world’s most extensive private collection of aircraft from WWI and WWII, including a life-sized replica of the Red Baron’s Fokker Dr.1 triplane.
 
Get up close and personal with the history of aviation, take a guided tour, or stay hands-on with interactive exhibits, making this an activity ideal for all ages.

3. The Queen Charlotte Track

Queen Charlotte Track - Image by Miles Holden
Queen Charlotte Track - Image by Miles Holden

The Queen Charlotte Track is a 70km trail that meanders through some of the most stunning landscapes in Marlborough. The track offers an excellent hiking experience for people of all skill levels, offering a range of options, from short walks to multi-day adventures.

With stunning views overlooking the Sounds, the Queen Charlotte Track is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty.

4. Marlborough Wine & Food Festival

Marlborough Wine & Foods - Image by Richard Briggs
Marlborough Wine & Foods - Image by Richard Briggs

If you’re serious about your wine and food, the Marlborough Wine & Food Festival is the perfect day out. Held in February annually, the festival celebrates the region’s culinary excellence, featuring local wines, craft beer, and delicious cuisine from all around New Zealand. Take part in winery tours, grape-stomping competitions, and food and wine matching seminars to get the most out of your visit.

5. Visiting Picton

Picton New Zealand

Of course, no visit to Marlborough would be complete without taking a wine tour with Bubbly Grape, where you can experience the best of the region’s wine industry. Still, these other activities offer a chance to explore the natural beauty, history and culture that makes Marlborough so special. So come along to Marlborough, the sunniest part of New Zealand, and experience it all for yourself.

Bubbly Grape wine tour in Marlborough at Cloudy Bay Vineyard

Of course, no visit to Marlborough would be complete without taking a wine tour with Bubbly Grape or Hop n Grape Wine Tours, where you can experience the best of the region’s wine industry. Still, these other activities offer a chance to explore the natural beauty, history and culture that makes Marlborough so special. So come along to Marlborough, the sunniest part of New Zealand, and experience it all for yourself.