Embarking on a motorhome journey from Queenstown to Milford Sound is a venture through some of New Zealand’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. The route is peppered with charming towns, each offering unique dining experiences and adventure activities. This guide will take you through the gastronomic highlights and exhilarating activities available on this iconic South Island road trip.
Queenstown: Adventure and Gastronomy Combined Queenstown is not just the adventure capital of New Zealand but also a culinary hotspot. For a dining experience to remember, visit ‘Botswana Butchery’ for its high-quality meats and fine wines, or ‘Fergburger’ for world-famous burgers that are an institution in themselves. In terms of activities, ‘AJ Hackett Bungy’ offers the adrenaline-pumping bungy jumps, while ‘Shotover Jet’ provides an exhilarating jet boat ride through the Shotover River canyons.
Arrowtown: Historical Charm and Fine Eats A short drive from Queenstown, Arrowtown is a historic gold mining town with a picturesque main street lined with trees and old buildings. ‘The Chop Shop Food Merchants’ in Arrowtown is a quirky and casual spot for breakfast or lunch. For history enthusiasts, the ‘Lakes District Museum & Gallery’ provides insights into the gold mining era, and for the adventurers, ‘Dart River Adventures’ offers jet boating in the nearby rivers.
Te Anau: Gateway to Fiordland Te Anau is the gateway to the Fiordland National Park and a perfect place to relax before venturing into the wild. ‘Redcliff Restaurant & Bar’ offers local fare in a cozy, rustic setting. For those looking to explore, ‘Fiordland Jet’ offers a combination of jet boating, walking, and helicopter tours, while ‘Te Anau Glowworm Caves’ provides a magical subterranean experience.
The Milford Road: Scenic Stops and Wilderness Adventures En route to Milford Sound, the Milford Road itself is an attraction. Stop at ‘The Chasm’ to witness the power of water-sculpted rock formations. ‘Knobs Flat’ is a convenient rest area where food options are limited, so it’s advisable to pack a lunch or snacks. For activities, numerous hikes start along the Milford Road, including the famous ‘Key Summit Trail’ offering panoramic views.
Milford Sound: Majestic Fiords and Marine Life Upon arrival at Milford Sound, the ‘Blue Duck Café & Bar’ at Milford Sound Lodge provides meals with a view. A ‘Southern Discoveries’ cruise will take you out onto the water to explore the fiord, waterfalls, and wildlife, including dolphins and seals. For a more intimate experience with nature, ‘Rosco’s Milford Kayaks’ offers guided kayaking tours that allow you to glide on the pristine waters of the sound.
Return Trip – The Southern Scenic Route: Coastal Delights On the return trip, taking the Southern Scenic Route through the Catlins offers an opportunity to explore New Zealand’s rugged southern coast. In Invercargill, ‘Buster Crabb’ is known for its hearty meals and Southland cheese rolls, a local delicacy. ‘Rakiura Charters’ in Stewart Island offers a unique wildlife experience, and ‘Curio Bay Salthouse’ has both accommodation and dining with sweeping ocean views.
Gore: Country Music and Comfort Food In Gore, known for its country music heritage, ‘The Thomas Green Public House and Dining Room’ serves up modern New Zealand cuisine in a stylish setting. Gore also hosts the ‘Tussock Country Music Festival,’ and the ‘Hokonui Moonshine Museum’ celebrates the area’s illicit whisky-making past.
Lumsden: Refuel and Recharge Lumsden, a former railway town, now serves as a quaint stopover. ‘Route 6 Café & Bar’ is an ideal spot for lunch, offering both delicious meals and historical railway memorabilia. Lumsden is also home to ‘Fly Fish Mataura’ which provides guided fly-fishing experiences in some of New Zealand’s most renowned trout fishing rivers.
Back to Queenstown: Completing the Loop Returning to Queenstown, reflect on the journey with a meal at ‘The Bunker’ – a cozy, intimate spot known for its local cuisine and cocktails. Queenstown’s vibrant nightlife offers a perfect end to your motorhome adventure.
This journey from Queenstown to Milford Sound and back is not just a road trip but an exploration of New Zealand’s heart and soul. From gourmet dining to outdoor excursions, every stop presents an opportunity to create unforgettable memories amidst the natural beauty of the South Island.
