Overnight at Milford Sound — New zealand uncovered

Milford Sound is situated at the end of one of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring drives in the world. A route that takes you right through the heart of Fiordland National Park and to the Sound bearing the same name. There are numerous Sounds that help make up Fiordland, Dusky Sound, Doubtful Sound, Endeavour Sound to name but a few. Most are so remote they have rarely been touched by humans let alone have a road or track built to enable access to them. Milford Sound is easily the most assessable of them all but even it is a journey of discovery to reach it.

A South Island Robin is just one of the many birds you might spot on your adventures in Fiordland

An article on a not so terrifying journey along the Milford Road will follow - counteracting my hair-raising early morning experience in the wet and dark that I wrote about in an earlier blog! Most folk visit Milford Sound for the day, taking advantage of the numerous bus trips or flights from Queenstown or Te Anau. Some choose to drive themselves. A select few are lucky enough to stay overnight.

One of the many stunning views at Milford Sound

Overnight options consist of two choices, a stay at the Milford Lodge or an overnight cruise out on the water of the Sound itself. Both are top choices and an article will follow on the overnight cruise option.

Overnight stays on the Milford Mariner are a real treat

This article is about Milford Sound Lodge. You will literally drive by the entrance to the lodge on your way to the car park and ferry terminal - presuming you plan to take a cruise out on the water which would be criminal not too, you’ve come all this way right? The lodge is a good spot for a day tripper if you fancy a coffee or light snack, or just general information about the area, this is the place to call in at. It is tucked away in the rainforest and besides the river and offer a range of accommodation options from the Premium Riverside Chalets that are positioned as the name suggests, beside the Cleddan River. They are perfect for couples looking to enjoy nature and completely relax with a spot of luxury. Other options include Mountain view chalets and campervan spots. The campervan park is surrounded by rainforest and includes some great features. I stayed just one night but would have gladly extended my stay.

Each site offers total privacy tucked neatly into sites surrounded by rainforest and bush. Opening the curtains on a morning to looming granite cliff faces on all sides and dense rainforest was quite something. It created the impression that you were in an untouched world completely immersed in nature. I swear I could have stayed a week in such serenity. To keep in touch with reality though there are some useful tools available here, a well equipped kitchen for campers use which is available 24 hours a day should you wake up with midnight cravings and dare to explore your surroundings in the darkness. There is a really good shower block and laundry which when i stayed was kept very clean. The main lodge houses the reception area for use by all including day trippers. It is where the restaurant is located. Pio Pio is a fantastic spot, and a must do if you happen to stay overnight here. It is home to some of the best dining in New Zealand despite being so remote. Yes, believe it or not, deep in the depths of Fiordland is one hell of a restaurant servicing up some delicious options showcasing New Zealand food. The menu is limited but the choices of Blue Cod, Wild Fiordland Venison or Southland Lamb are anything but - it’s a menu to show the areas delicious highlights and it does so memorably.