Picton - Explore, Hike, and Wander

The two days in Picton were perfect for relaxing and somehow went by way too quickly.

Yesterday, I purposely did not go on any hikes to rest my feet. After a very relaxed morning (and another shower, just because I can), I walked around Picton, stopping here and there to take photos.

There were two other German girls staying in the room as well, I spent the first day with one of them and the second day with the other. It's become so easy for me to just approach people and make short-lived acquaintances - surprising.
For the rest of the day yesterday, I planned things like going through brochures and guidebooks, checking my bank account, sending inquiries, reading blogs, and so on... It's all part of being a backpacker.

Today, A) the weather was wonderful and B) I was already feeling quite well-rested, so I decided to take on the hiking trails around Picton. But I have to be completely honest: once you finish the Queen Charlotte Track, the views of the Sound along the trails don't amaze you as much anymore. It's still...beautiful, but no longer spectacular.
Another trail (quite steep!) leads up a mountain behind Picton, from which you have an amazing view of the town and the water. It was definitely a postcard-worthy sight and the hike was worth it!

Today, there were two (!) cruise ships anchored in Picton, so once again thousands of tourists flooded the land. Many went on tours to Abel Tasman National Park or other places, but a large number also stayed in Picton. I've become allergic to tourists by now, so I retreated back to the hostel, partly because of the strong sun (my goodness, it was hot!). After all, I had to pack my backpack again and it's not getting any easier. And since I've already bought food for the next hike, I now have to deal with four pieces of luggage. Thank goodness, nobody asks about that with Stray.

Tomorrow, I'll be getting on the bus and heading to the outskirts of Abel Tasman National Park via Nelson. Of course, there's a hiking trail there too (what else?) and it's even one of the Great Walks in New Zealand. Naturally, I have to try it out, even if only halfway. But camping is included, otherwise the tent wouldn't have been worth it, after all ;)

Just a short post today, but there isn't much to confess. Instead, I'll be uploading lots of pictures again!