The jewel in the Southern Scenic Route crown: Fiordland

Arguably the most jaw-dropping of all of the areas on the Southern Scenic Route – or, at the very least, perhaps the most well-known globally – a visit to Fiordland is an incredible experience.

Celebrated British author Rudyard Kipling – author of The Jungle Book – was so awe-inspired by this part of the world that he dubbed it The Eighth Wonder of the World.

If you’re heading out for a good old-fashioned Kiwi summer road trip, the Southern Scenic Route is full of adventure. The journey was recently named one of the top summer road trips Kiwis are keen to discover as we head into 2021.

And for anybody taking in the Southern Scenic Route, Fiordland cannot be missed. Fiordland National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s not hard to see why. With a truly magnificent landscape that includes a dizzying array of waterfalls, mountains, rainforest, rugged granite peaks, and rainforest, Fiordland is a must-do when on a road trip around the south of New Zealand.

Fiordland National Park is home to Milford, Dusky and Doubtful sounds. Some of the fiords here can be explored by kayak while others are only accessible courtesy of eco-tours escorted by knowledgeable local guides. Fiordland National Park is home to three of New Zealand’s great walks: the Milford, Kepler and Routeburn tracks.

Here are some of our favourite stops in the area.

 

Trips & Tramps private experiences

Experience the beauty of this world-renowned area alongside a private, local Trips & Tramps nature guide.

With more than three decades of experience guiding visitors to the hidden gems of Fiordland’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Trips & Tramps is your Fiordland go-to. Experiences can be tailor-made to suit your interests and travel needs. Whether on foot, by sea, or in the air, you’ll be able to choose from an unforgettable range of ways to see one of the most beautiful areas in the entire world.

 

Lake2Lake Cycle Trail

This recently-opened cycle trail runs alongside the beautiful Lake Te Anau. It also takes in the eastern shoreline of the Waiau River, heading towards Lake Manapouri. Created by the Fiordland Trails Trust, the Lake2Lake cycle trail is an unforgettable example of community spirit.

(The entire project was a labour of love. It was funded thanks to community donations.)

The majority of the trail is rated ‘Grade 2: Easy’. It can be run, walked, or biked and is ideal for people of all ages and abilities. Bikes and e-bikes can be hired in Te Anau.

 

Bao Now

YUM! Really, what else can we say?! Bao Now started as a food truck in the centre of Te Anau and, thanks to its incredible food and fantastic reputation, these guys have developed a bit of a cult following. Based off the popular Korean dish, bao (steamed buns), Bao Now serves up Asian-inspired flavours using the crème de la crème of local produce. Choose from delicious, fresh dishes that are big on flavour: take your pick from dumplings, crepes, loaded fries, and plenty of vegan options. Our pick of the bunch? It has to be the Porky Bao.

(If you can read the words ‘pork belly, miso cucumber, crackle, coriander, aioli and okonomiyaki in a bao bun’ without drooling, we’re seriously impressed!)

 

Landscape Photography Tours

Always remember your visit to one of the most spectacular corners of the world: courtesy of a tour alongside somebody with the expertise to ensure you’re able to capture it! William Patino Photography runs private and small group landscape photography workshops suitable for beginners through to professionals.

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Posted in: Attractions

Tags: Fiordland, Milford Sound, road trip, Southern Scenic Route, Te Anau, things to do in New Zealand, things to do in Southland