The well-worn adages about journeys and destinations are rarely more apt than when referencing the road to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Tasman Travels adventurers Tom and Jord Tasman share their recent trip and encourage others to add it to their RV must-do list.
Having been travelling around New Zealand fulltime for some years, there’s no doubt that Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of New Zealand’s most awe-inspiring places.
Spanning over 1.2 million hectares, it’s a vast wilderness of granite peaks, ancient rainforests, and glacial-carved valleys – a landscape like no other. It’s also home to iconic spots like Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, and is a haven for adventurers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts alike, as well as those just wanting to soak in the stunning views. But the road to Milford Sound isn’t just a route – it’s an adventure in itself, with incredible stops and experiences at every turn.
Journey Underway
As the morning mist lifted, sunlight spilled over Te Rua-o-te-moko’s rugged peaks, setting the tone for our day. After fuelling up with coffee and snacks at the cozy Milford Road Merchant, we set out on one of New Zealand’s most legendary drives. The road to Milford Sound winds through dramatic landscapes, from rushing rivers to lush rainforests, with every bend revealing another breathtaking view.
Campsite Adventures
Our first overnight stop was Henry Creek DOC Camp, tucked along the shores of Lake Te Anau. The lake’s surface was rough, with waves crashing against the shore, echoing the wild energy of the landscape. The occasional bird call cut through the sound of the splashes, adding a touch of calm to the scene. Despite the lake’s restless nature, it was the perfect spot to pause and soak in the beauty of Fiordland. It’s worth noting (as with all DOC campsites) the No Dogs rule if you happen to be travelling with your canine friend.
Resuming our travels and for our next stop, we pulled into Totara DOC Camp, a peaceful retreat with plenty of room for our caravan. A short walk from the campsite led us to a secluded riverside spot, where we stretched our legs and enjoyed the crisp mountain air.
Not every DOC camp was caravan-friendly, though. We discovered this the hard way at Walker Creek DOC Camp, where tight spaces made maneuvering our 14-metre combo a challenge – a useful heads-up for fellow caravan travellers!
With so many spectacular campsites to choose from and enjoy, there was a standout campsite however for us: Deer Valley DOC Camp, hidden away in a forest clearing.
It felt like we had stumbled upon a secret haven. Evenings here were magical – wrapped in blankets, gazing at a star-studded sky with only the sounds of the Eglinton River and kea soaring overhead breaking the sound of silence.
Walks Worth Exploring
En-route, we made a stop at Te Anau Downs, a key hub for adventurers tackling the Milford Track. We were lucky enough to experience the Milford Track Day Walk with Fiordland Outdoors. The boat ride across Lake Te Anau was its own adventure, and it was immediately apparent why the walk is widely dubbed “the finest walk in the world” (Blanche Baughan,1908). Accessible, yet gives you the feeling you’re on a true adventure!
The road to Milford Sound is packed with short and long walks that are well worth your time:
Mirror Lakes Walk: A gentle stroll with reflections of the Earl Mountains on the water’s surface – visit early for the best views.
Lake Gunn Nature Walk: A 45-minute loop through moss-covered beech forest, where the earthy scent and soft bird calls transport you to another world. Perfect for forest bathing.
Key Summit Track: A more challenging hike that rewards you with sweeping views over the Hollyford Valley and surrounding mountains.
The Final Stretch
As we neared Milford Sound, we stayed at Cascade Creek DOC Camp, the last campsite before reaching the Sound. Spacious and scenic, it made for the perfect base before tackling the final leg of the journey.
Driving through the famous Homer Tunnel was a highlight. This 1.2-km marvel, carved straight through solid rock, feels like a gateway to another world. Emerging from the tunnel into the dramatic Milford landscape was nothing short of jaw-dropping. Allow time for plenty of stop-offs for photos and kea sightings.
At Milford Sound, we joined a scenic cruise with Cruise Milford. Gliding across the deep, inky waters, surrounded by sheer cliffs and cascading waterfalls, was an experience like no other. The guides shared fascinating insights into the area’s history, geology, and wildlife, and we were lucky enough to spot New Zealand fur seal, bottlenose dolphins and even yellow-crested penguins. Cruise Milford always keep their boats at half the maximum capacity, giving the feeling of space aboard, and more intimacy.
Where to Stay
For those looking to splurge, Fiordland Lodge offers luxury accommodation with panoramic views of Lake Te Anau. Choose from a luxury room, executive suite or your own traditional log cabin.
Milford Lodge, closer to the heart of the action, offers campervan sites nestled within the rainforest. It’s worth noting however that this unique spot is in high demand, with campervan sites often fully booked out months in advance, so plan well ahead.
Although suitable for campervans only (not tents, rooftop tents or caravans), there’s ample other accommodation options to choose from – the stunning mountain view or riverside chalet suites are an experience in themselves, and your appetite for all things exceptional can be fully sated at the onsite Pio Pio restaurant, equally famed for its setting and its menu, which heroes local flavours and techniques (Fiordland wild venison and Fiordland crayfish are popular favourites).
Final Thoughts
The road to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi isn’t just about getting to the destination – it’s about the journey, every step of the way. From misty mornings and peaceful campsites to breathtaking walks and unforgettable experiences, this adventure left us with memories to last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, fuel up, and let the road to Milford Sound surprise and inspire.
