Southern Scenic Route

July 22, 2020

Southern Scenic Route

This journey between Queenstown and Dunedin is approximately 610 kilometres (km) of natural and cultural attractions laid out one after the other – wildlife viewing, short walks, mountain-biking, fishing, hunting, boating, camping, tramping and caving – making it an ideal drive for those with time to explore. Alternative inland roads provide a more direct path between the main centres. However, the Southern Scenic Route (SSR) is a journey that allows access to deserted beaches, lush rainforest, pristine lakes and stunning mountain vistas.

 

1. Arrive into Queenstown

Hire a Car

Bus: Tracknet, Ph +64 03 249 7777

Te Anau Transfers:  teanautransfers@gmail.com or 0204832628

Envy Experiences, Fully Electric Tesla

Queenstown Harbour, New Zealand

Begin your journey in Queenstown

 

 

 

2. Along the drive from Queenstown to Te Anau

Great Photo Stops along the Devils staircase, there are several places to safely pullover for a scenic photo

Kingston

Real Country”; Great Farm Tour/Country Experiences about 2km south of Kingston, Archery, Stock whips training, all the animals you can think of, to touch, feed and mob up some sheep.

Mossburn

The Dome at Mossburn have great coffee and homemade delights.

Bracken Hall many gift lines and New Zealand made items and tasty real Fruit Ice Creams

 

3. Te Anau

Radfords on the Lake – Premium Lakefront Accommodation right on the Lakefront.

Stay in Te Anau and explore Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, Glow Worm Caves, Faith in Fordland, a day walk on one of the Great walks, Milford, Kepler, or Routeburn Tracks. Book an unforgettable New Zealand helicopter tour with Southern Lakes Helicopters https://southernlakeshelicopters.co.nz/

Restaurant Options

Sandfly Café for delicious breakfast and coffee

Bao Now for delicious Baos a great option for lunch

The Fat Duck is a wonderful Gastro Pub serving up great NZ food

Lake Te Anau, Te Anau

Visit beautiful Lake Te Anau

 

4. Head South via the Southern Scenic Route

Manapouri

Just 20kms from Te Anau, stop and admire Lake Manapouri, Lake Manapouri is the second deepest lake in New Zealand and has a large hydro power station at the end of its west arm.

Lake Huroko

Remote Lake Hauroko, NZ’s deepest Lake

Orepuki Beach Café – this is a great lunch stop right on the coast.  Find them on Facebook

Cosy Nook and Monkey Island

13 kms from Cosy Nook is a wonderful 2hr15min walk called Round Hill/Long Hilly Track

  • This walking track is an extensive historic trek through New Zealand gold mining history with relics left from the Chinese and European settlement from the 19th century. Walkers will enjoy quiet native bush as they walk the gravel track, spot old saw milling artifacts, look out for native birds, and view the crumbling earth dams.
  • There are multiple tracks that start and end from this point but there is a loop track available for day-walkers which takes 2hr15min.

Riverton

A small town 30 kilometres west of Invercargill and located on the south-eastern shorelines of the Jacobs River Estuary, while there be sure to check out the Riverton Rocks – great photo opportunity.

Invercargill

Fondly dubbed the “City of Water and Light”, referring to the long summer daylight hours, frequent appearances of the Aurora Australis (Southern Lights), and the city’s position beside the Waihopai River estuary, Invercargill has plenty of character and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere

For Invercargill, this was only the beginning. Now called New Zealand’s “Classic Motoring Capital”, the city boasts an impressive vintage truck collection at Bill Richardson Transport World – the largest private collection of its type in the world, a world-class display of over 300 motorcycles and motorcycle related artwork at Classic Motorcycle Mecca, and a celebration of the legend of speed himself, Burt Munro, at E Hayes Motorworks.  Click here for restaurants, accommodation and things to see and do

 

5. Stewart Island

Whether you have come to enjoy the land, sea and night-scapes, view the wildllife, walk, boat, fish, dive, kayak, hunt or just relax – a Stewart Island holiday will be an experience that will draw you back again and again.

 

Stewart Island Beach, New Zealand

Venture down to Stewart Island and enjoy the untouched landscape

 

6. Catlins

The Catlins, the spectacular coastal stretch between Invercargill and Balclutha, boasts a rugged beauty and untouched quality that is magnetic. Here you’ll find a world of native forests fringed by high cliffs, deserted sandy beaches, sparkling bays, cascading waterfalls, hidden lakes, blowholes, caves, picturesque lighthouses and even a petrified forest. These environments are home to an array of fauna, from native birds, to seals, sea lions, dolphins, and penguins. The Catlins’ natural landscapes are enthralling, and the wildlife is extraordinary.

5 things to do in the Catlins

  • See Purakaunui Falls. The cascading, multi-tiered Purakaunui Falls are said to be among the most-photographed in New Zealand, and can be easily reached via a short bush walk.
  • Visit Nugget Point. …
  • Explore Cathedral Caves. …
  • Mclean Falls
  • Get curious at Curio Bay.

Balclutha

The mighty Clutha river, New Zealand’s most voluminous goes through the heart of Balclutha. The river is an important part of the town’s history – it encouraged farmers to the area and brought fame but mainly fortune with the discovery of gold.

 

7. Dunedin

Dunedin is a city in New Zealand, at the head of Otago Harbour on the South Island’s southeast coast. It’s known for its Scottish and Maori heritage, Victorian and Edwardian architecture, and a large student population. Hiking and cycling trails crisscross the dramatic landscape of the adjoining Otago Peninsula, home to colonies of albatross, sea lions and rare yellow-eyed penguins.

Fly out from Dunedin Airport

  • We travelled the South Island for 12 days and this is the best place we stayed. We stayed for 2 nights and found our suite to be clean, warm, comfortable, modern and spacious. All the amenities were above and beyond…the large soft towels, the nice fluffy dressing gowns, a spacious bathroom with nice little touches added and a great kitchenette. Kerri welcomed us warmly and helped us with dinner recommendations. When we come back to NZ we will definitely be staying here again and can’t wait to catch up with Kerri.
    Collette H – September 23  Read Reviews
  • An absolute must stay if you’re in Te Anau. Kerri was the most incredible host to us, going above and beyond. The rooms are wonderful, with lots of lovely extra touches and very well equipped kitchen too! Beds were so comfy and the linen was really nice. The views from the room was spectacular and it was lovely and warm. Great room and space for travelling with young children too!
    Sophie M – August 23  Read Reviews
  • The quality of everything was amazing. You can tell how much detail has been put into everything. It looks freshly renovated and the location is perfect walking distance to town. Kerri kindly provided us with options of places to eat and explore. Feels more like a "Hotel" then a "Motel".
    Mel H – August 23  Read Reviews
  • Occasionally, you find a great hotel. This is one. We booked online after having read good reviews. Sat right on the front with views over the lake, and only a few steps from town. We really enjoyed our two night stay. The welcome was fabulous, lots of good advice of where to go and where we should go to eat and drink. The room was superb, a separate living area and bedroom. There is a comfy big sofa, looking out towards the lake and a more than extremely comfortable bed. A great effort has been made to make Radfords stand out above others, and it shows. I would suggest that in a three week visit to NZ, this was the nicest place we stayed.
    Paul W – September 23  Read Reviews
  • the location is excellent, in central Te Anau, with a view over the lake.  The accommodation is really good, it's a small apartment with a kitchenette so you can cook (with induction plates, microwave, toaster...) and even including a dish washer. A breakfast can be ordered, one that is both substantial & healthy. You will meet Kerri, who's extremely friendly, smiling, and flexible. She  loves to give recommendations for places to eat at, things to do, etc. I warmly recommend Radfords on the Lake!
    ExploreFeelGood – August 23  Read Reviews
  • Sometimes you just have a feeling that you are welcome and people really care about you as a guest. This is the case at Radfords on the Lake. We had been back to Te Anau for another stay and when we walked in to check in, we were greeted with a big smile and Kerri came out to gave me a big hug. It has been years that we have been there and she still remembered everything about us. In one word, everything was just perfect.
    Wala69 – August 23  Read Reviews

Our Environmental Promise

We are committed to preserving our beautiful surroundings and reducing our footprint on the environment.

#Radfordsonthelake

SHARE YOUR SPECIAL IMAGES WITH US

🎃 H A L L O W E E N  2 0 2 3 🎃
We always get asked how close we are to the centre of town, so we thought we’d show you! Come with us on our short, flat 7 minute walk from Te Anau town centre back to the lake views from Radfords.
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#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
Throwback Thursday! Reminiscing on a great night at the @hospitalitynz Awards for Excellence 2023 back in June. While we didn't win on the night, we were super proud to be a finalist alongside some fantastic motels. And it's always fun to get dressed up in the big city and celebrate our great industry with all our industry friends.
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#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
If you're visiting us during school holidays and your looking for some family friendly activities, make sure a visit to the Te Anau Glowworm Caves with @real.newzealand  is top of your list. This unique Fiordland experience is not to be missed. We can help you make a booking before you arrive or chat to our friendly team when you check-in.

📸 @real.newzealand 
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#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
📸📸📸📸📸📸📸📸📸📸📸⭐😍😏
We made the most of the gorgeous spring weather over the weekend and got out to enjoy one of our favourite things to do in Te Anau, -  a stroll along the lakefront. A must do when you visit us.
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#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
Wow! We can't believe it's the first day of spring. While we love the cosy winter nights we are ready for the longer days and warmer temps. We're looking forward to evenings on the patio sipping a glass of Rosé. Who is planning a Fiordland adventure this spring?

📸 @digitaltravelcouple 
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#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
Fiordland is full of adventures, but after a day of exploring Radfords on the Lake is the perfect place to come back to and relax. Our luxurious rooms provide you with a cosy sanctuary, so you can reflect and recharge on your day. 

📸 @thejoshshaw 

#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
Picture perfect moments at the Te Anau jetty. A popular spot for photographers. Have you visited this Instagram famous spot in Te Anau?

📸 @digitaltravelcouple 

#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
While we are a small team at Radfords on the Lake, all team members, both human and feline play an important part ensuring our guests have a great time. Dexter Dude is our resident sun snoozer but loves nothing more than a cuddle from our guests. A social fellow is our Dexter and to us he is just purr-fect. So as today is #internationalcatday we celebrate our favourite furry feline friend. 

#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
Once you've booked your stay with us here at Radfords on the Lake, did you know we can help you plan and book all your Fiordland activities? Fiordland is our home so let us help you make the most of this special place so you don't miss a thing.

📸 @real.newzealand cruising in Doubtful Sound
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#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
Golden hour at Radfords on the Lake. 

Winter in the National Park is beautiful but we do miss those long, hot summer days.

@digitaltravelcouple 

#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
 #fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
Fiordland National Park is a hikers paradise and Te Anau is the gateway to the National Park. Radfords on the Lake is the perfect place to base yourself for all your Fiordland adventures. Relax in comfort and style in one of our luxurious lakeside apartments after a day of exploring. 

📸 @digitaltravelcouple

#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland