Queenstown-Glenorchy Scenic Drive

Queenstown-Glenorchy Scenic Drive is one of New Zealand’s most stunning road trips, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and serene lakes. This iconic route, stretching from Queenstown to the charming town of Glenorchy, provides a front-row seat to some of the most beautiful landscapes the South Island has to offer. Whether you’re an avid photographer, nature lover, or simply looking for a memorable drive, the Queenstown-Glenorchy Scenic Drive promises an unforgettable experience.

Date visited: Nov-2024

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On Day 5 of our New Zealand South Island campervan adventure, we set off from Te Anau with the rain accompanying us as we made our way toward Queenstown and Glenorchy. Known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown was our destination, but we couldn’t resist exploring some of the beautiful sights along the way. Below are the things to do along this route.

Things to do (Day 5)

1. Devil’s Staircase Lookout Point (Map)

Our first stop was at the Devil’s Staircase Lookout Point, a stunning viewpoint located along the shores of Lake Wakatipu. The view here is nothing short of breathtaking, offering sweeping vistas of the lake, surrounding mountains, and the rugged terrain that makes this area so unique. It’s a perfect spot to take in the natural beauty of the region.

2. Queenstown-Glenorchy Scenic Drive

After settling in at our campsite in Queenstown, we set off along the famous Queenstown-Glenorchy Scenic Drive. This scenic highway is well-known for its spectacular views, with the road hugging the edge of Lake Wakatipu and offering glimpses of dramatic mountains and lush forests. While the rain dampened our chances for photos, the drive itself was a highlight and a must-do in the region.

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3. Isengard Lookout (Map)

Our next stop took us to the Isengard Lookout, a must-see for any fan of the Lord of the Rings movies. Located near Glenorchy, this spot was used as a filming location for the fictional Isengard in the iconic film series. Surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests, this area offers some of the most striking views in the Southern Alps.

Isengard Lookout: Filming location for “Isengard” in the trilogy “Lord of The Rings”

4. Glenorchy Wharf (Map)

Even though the rain persisted, we made a brief stop at Glenorchy Wharf, a quaint and historic location by the water. The wharf is a beautiful spot to relax and take in the serene atmosphere of this small town. Its significance lies not only in its natural beauty but also in its history as a transport hub during the gold rush era, connecting the region to the wider world.

Glenorchy Wharf: One of the landmarks in Glenorchy

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5. Twenty Five Mile Stream (Map)

After leaving Glenorchy, we stopped at Twenty Five Mile Stream, a beautiful location offering a unique water-level view of Lake Wakatipu. This spot is peaceful and serene, with views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains that create a perfect backdrop for a quiet moment by the lake.

Located along Queenstown-Glenorchy Scenic Drive, Twenty Five Mile Stream is a beautiful location offering a unique water-level view of Lake Wakatipu

This spot is peaceful and serene, with views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains that create a perfect backdrop for a quiet moment by the lake.

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6. Bennett’s Bluff Viewpoint (Map)

Our final scenic stop before heading back to Queenstown was at Bennett’s Bluff Viewpoint, one of the most photographed spots in the area. This viewpoint provides an elevated perspective of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Southern Alps. The views are simply jaw-dropping, making it a perfect place to capture the beauty of the region.