Eatwell Lookout – Panorama Point over Kenepuru & Queen Charlotte Sounds

#mytraveldiary Ambience & Setting Eatwell Lookout sits on the ridgeline of the Kenepuru Peninsula in the Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand. From there, you’ll gaze across glittering inlets, forest-clad hillsides, and undulating coastal ridges. The air is fresh, often scented with native bush, the light dramatic—morning mists, afternoon sun, clouds drifting over jagged ridgelines—all contributing to these sweeping vistas. It’s peaceful, elevated, and very much a “look-out” in the best sense: expansive, humbling, beautiful.  ⸻ Highlights • Spectacular Viewpoints – Overlooks both Kenepuru Sound and Queen Charlotte Sound, giving a wide range of sea, hill and sky views.  • Sidetrack from Queen Charlotte Track – A detour from the main track leads up to Eatwell Lookout; many walkers stop here for the view.  • Hiking Variation – Options include the “Kenepuru Saddle to Eatwells Lookout” trail (approx 11.5-12 km return) or shorter day walks from Punga Cove.  • History & Conservation – The lookout is named after Rod Eatwell, local conservationist who helped establish the Kenepuru Walkway. It’s part of a legacy of landowners, DOC (Department of Conservation), and community working together.  ⸻ Practical Info • Location: Marlborough Sounds, Kenepuru Track, New Zealand.  • Distance & Difficulty: The hike from Kenepuru Saddle is about 7.2 mi (~11.5 km) one-way with moderate climb (~490 m vertical gain); expect 4-5 hours return depending on pace and stops.  • Access & Permits: Part of Queen Charlotte Track / Kenepuru ridge track. A “Track Pass” from the Queen Charlotte Track Land Cooperative may be required for sections on private land.  • Facilities: Minimal at the lookout itself (signage, viewpoint). Some toilets along the track; accommodation / food in nearby lodges e.g. Punga Cove.  • Best Time to Visit: Clear weather for maximum visibility; mornings or late afternoon for better light; avoid very wet days for track mud and possible slippage.  ⸻ Why It’s Worth Visiting Because Eatwell Lookout gives you big-sky drama for relatively modest effort. It combines coastal and forest landscapes, offers panoramic views over the Sounds, and lets you step off the beaten path into quiet natural beauty. If you appreciate vantage points, photo potential, and walking trails that reward you with views, this spot delivers. Also carries a sense of local heritage and conservation connected to Rod Eatwell’s story. ⸻ Final Thoughts Wear sturdy walking shoes. Bring water and snacks. A camera is good—sunrise/sunset light does wonders here. Check track pass requirements ahead. Walk slowly up the sidetrack—pause at intermediate views. Let time linger at the top, gaze over ridges and bays, absorb how the valleys and sounds stretch away. Eatwell Lookout is one of those places where the view stays with you long after you leave.