Island Hills Escape
If you're short on time but have a masochistic appetite for elevation, this is your weekend. Located just two hours from Christchurch, Island Hills is the home of the legendary Skedaddle trail race. It's a raw, rolling landscape of rugged ridgelines, hidden gullies, and regenerating native bush. This isn't just a run; it's a full immersion into a high-country station that's working as hard on conservation as you are on that 1400m climb. You'll leave grounded, weathered, and wondering why you ever thought pavement running was a good hobby.
Tour Highlights
- •The Skedaddle Soil: Run the private trails that host one of the South Island's gutsiest races.
- •Conservation in Motion: A 4WD tour of the property to see the biodiversity work (and to give your legs a 15-minute break).
- •Homestead Living: Authentic, rustic lodge vibes - perfect for sharing stories and reconsidering your life choices.
- •Proximity to Reality: Close enough to Christchurch for a weekend, far enough to forget your email password.
What's Included
- ✓2 Nights' Shared Lodging: Rustic, high-country style. No fluff, just character.
- ✓Catered Fuel: 2 Breakfasts, 2 Packed Lunches, and 2 Dinners (The BBQ is non-negotiable).
- ✓Off-Road Insight: 4WD farm tour and guided conservation walk.
- ✓Guided Suffering: Expert leads to ensure you find the best views (and the way back).
- ✓The Recovery Stretch: Group sessions to help you actually get back into your car on Sunday.
- ✓The 0% Club: Enjoy a local non-alc craft beer/cider at the lodge. High-country hospitality, minus the dehydration.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Friday: Arrival & First Tracks
Meet at the base by 5:00 PM. We'll drop the bags and immediately head out for a 10km leg-stretcher. In North Canterbury terms, that means 450m of climbing right out of the gate. We'll finish with a 4WD tour to learn about the land's history before settling into a relaxed BBQ dinner and a refreshing beverage.
Day 2 - Saturday: The Big Dance
This is the main event. We're heading deep into the ridges and bush-covered valleys of the Mandamus Preservation Reserve. You'll pass the historic Bush Hut and, if the clouds behave, get a front-row seat to Mt Skedaddle (1704m). We'll return for a restorative stretch and a fireside beer - which you will have officially earned.
Day 3 - Sunday: One Last Ascent
We start early to beat the heat (and the Monday morning dread). One final 15km loop to soak up the last of the views and ensure your lungs are fully awake. We'll share a final group lunch back at the base before you head back to Christchurch by mid-afternoon.