This is a small viewpoint area alongside Lake Wakatipu, no walking required.

On still mornings the lake can look like glass.

This rickety old pier is absolutely iconic online and is a wonderful place to stretch your legs on your road trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound.

The Eglinton Valley in Fiordland National Park is an idyllic paradise and one of the world's few road-accessible valleys. It is full of spectacular landscapes and stunning vistas, with steep rocky mountains cloaked in native beech trees, lush tussock grass, and the gentle rippling of the Eglinton River. Home to a host of unique birdlife and New Zealand's only land mammals, it has numerous photogenic spots and memorable views. For fans of Lord of the Rings, you will recognize several scenes that were filmed here, including the Misty Mountains from The Fellowship of the Ring! It is sure to make your Milford Sound excursion extra special.

The Mirror Lakes, situated in Fiordland National Park, are a must-stop when driving from Te Anau to Milford Sound. The view from the wooden platforms is simply stunning, reflecting the beautiful mountain ranges that surround the lake. A visit typically lasts only 10 minutes but visitors can take advantage of the various viewing platforms to admire the remarkable reflection in the lake. Morning is generally the best time to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of this natural wonder, as the sun light hits the lake just right for maximum reflection. Don't miss out on this incredible experience and be sure to stop at the Mirror Lakes when next in Fiordland National Park!

Lake Gunn Nature Walk is a popular 1.4km loop walk located in Fiordland National Park and Milford Road/Milford Sound region, in the Fiordland region of New Zealand.

This short loop takes adventurers through tranquil red beech forest with lots of moss-covered trees, offering excellent views of Lake Gunn and majestic mountains. With its easy access and flat gradient, this track is suitable for all fitness levels, offers wheelchair accessible toilets and a picnic table at the Cascade Creek Campsite near the track. It's also an excellent spot to observe native wildlife such as South Island Robin and kakaruai, kaka, yellowhead, and mohua.

Pops View Look Out is the perfect spot to take in the stunning scenery of Milford Sound. Located on the way to Milford Sound, the lookout offers a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains and lush valleys from its plateau. Visitors can also spot native wildlife such as Kea, who often stop by for a snack. With plenty of tours available, Pops View Look Out is the perfect place to spend some time during your journey through Fiordland National Park.

While many people have heard about Lake Marian and its steep, difficult hike, not many people know that there is a beautiful little cascade of waterfalls 20 minutes return from the carpark!

If you're like me and obsess over the best place to stay while on holiday, then you'll be pleased to know there's actually only one accomodation in Milford Sound which takes away the stress of choosing.

This accomodation, called Milford Sound Lodge, is AMAZING! It's nestled inside the fiord on a riverside and surrounded by sheer cliffs - imagine waking to the thundering of thousands of waterfalls outside your room, friendly wekas plodding by and Milford Sound empty of tour buses!

The lodge has a variety of accomodation types from luxury waterfront rooms to campsites, so there's something to suit every budget. It also has the only restaurant in the sounds (though there is a cafe at the visitors centre) and a guest kitchen if you've bought your own supplies to cook.
There is a beautiful walk along the river to Milford Sound which takes about 30 minutes if you want to avoid parking (5 mins by car).

YOU MUST BOOK BOTH YOUR LODGE ACCOMODATION AND LODGE RESTAURANT BOOKINGS WELL IN ADVANCE!!!
As you might be able to guess the Lodge books out well in advance so make sure you get in early. If you do miss out, or you want to stay somewhere with more choice of restaurants and accomodation, the small tourist town of Te Anau is a 45 minute drive away.

Pio Pio Restaurant is a hidden gem nestled in the breathtaking Milford Sound. With its cozy atmosphere and mouth-watering menu, it offers a world-class dining experience in a World Heritage location. The talented kitchen team sources locally-sourced produce to create delicious New Zealand dishes, including Fiordland Wild Venison tenderloin and Lumina Lamb. Whether you're staying at the lodge or just passing through, Pio Pio is a must-visit spot for good food. MAKE SURE TO BOOK WELL IN ADVANCE.
As the only restaurant in Milford Sound it books out very quickly.

The Milford Sound Foreshore Walk is an amazing one of a kind experience. The walk takes visitors along the shoreline of the world famous Milford Sound, providing breathtaking views of towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Along the way, hikers have the chance to observe the rich wildlife that calls this area home, including fur seals, native birds, and sometimes even dolphins and penguins. The lush rainforest also creates an incredibly peaceful atmosphere, making it the perfect place to take in the beauty of the area. For nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those just looking for a peaceful stroll, the Milford Sound Foreshore Walk is a must-do activity.

If you're staying at the Milford Sound lodge then leave your car there and walk to the sounds along the river.

This walk takes 20 minutes to reach the foreshore walk, swing and lookout and another 10 to reach the cruise terminal.

It's really beautiful, not very frequented and allows you stretch your legs and avoid the hassle of parking which can be pretty expensive around the cruise terminal.

Tip: Please check with staff that the track is open and safe to use at the time of year you are visiting.

A short walk up stairs with an elevated view of Milford Sound

Located in Fiordland National Park, the Milford Sound Lookout Track offers a breathtaking view of stunning Milford Sound. With 400m of easy, 20-minute return walking, this track is perfect for hikers of all levels who want to observe the beautiful Fiordland scenery from an elevated point. The path begins from the car park area at the back of the café in Milford Sound and leads up to the lookout via steps. This experience makes for an unforgettable outing that can't be missed by any nature enthusiast.

Milford sounds famous foreshore swing. Can be tricky to find, download the location offline because there is no reception in Milford Sound

Further information: The Milford Sound Swing in New Zealand is one of the most unique viewpoints found around the world. On a small, sandy beach at the edge of the fiord lies a two-person swing built by one of the village workers for his girlfriend. This romantic destination has become popular amongst Instagrammers thanks to the great pictures of Milford Sound that can be taken from this special spot. Visiting the swing during high tide requires a bit of exploration and knowledge, making it even more rewarding when you find it. It's the perfect place for watching sunsets and couples looking to have some unique quality time together. Visit the swing and enjoy amazing views of Milford Sound from one of the best seats in the house!