Discover the Breathtaking Beauty of Lake Coleridge, New Zealand
Located in the heart of the Canterbury region, Lake Coleridge is a stunning gem in New Zealand’s Southern Alps. This picturesque lake is surrounded by the majestic mountains and offers a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. In this article, we will delve into the History and Features of Lake Coleridge, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New Zealand.
History of Lake Coleridge
Lake Coleridge has a rich history dating back to 1858, when a group of Scottish settlers arrived in the area and established a village. The lake was named after the British politician, James Coleridge, and was initially used for farming and gold mining. Over the years, the lake has undergone significant changes, with the construction of a hydroelectric dam in the 1950s, which transformed the lake into a popular spot for recreational activities and outdoor adventures.
Features of Lake Coleridge
Lake Coleridge is a stunning 14-kilometer-long lake, surrounded by towering mountains and dense beech forests. This natural beauty is accessible from Christchurch, the South Island’s largest city, about 2.5 hours away by car. The lake’s crystal-clear waters offer excellent fishing opportunities, with a variety of fish species, including trout and salmon. The lake’s calm and peaceful atmosphere, combined with its picturesque surroundings, make it an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Things to Do at Lake Coleridge
Lake Coleridge offers a range of activities for visitors, including:
- Fishing: Try your hand at catch-and-release fishing for trout and salmon, or go on a guided fishing tour with a local expert.
- Hiking: Explore the surrounding mountains and forests on one of the many walking trails, ranging from easy to challenging.
- Kayaking: Take a leisurely paddle across the lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
- Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing swim in the lake’s crystal-clear waters.
Conclusion
Lake Coleridge is a must-visit destination for any nature lover or outdoor enthusiast traveling to New Zealand’s South Island. Its unique history, breathtaking scenery, and range of activities make it an ideal spot for relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re fishing, hiking, or simply taking in the views, Lake Coleridge is a true gem of the Southern Alps, waiting to be explored.
Image Credits
[OC] [5712 x 4284] (This image is available under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic (CC BY-SA 2.0) license.)
Sources
- Lake Coleridge Village website: http://www.lakecoleridge.co.nz
- New Zealand Tourism: http://www.newzealand.com
- Wikipedia: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Coleridge
Download image Lake Coleridge, NZ [OC] [5712 x 4284] by GingerGreen13