Exploring Queenstown’s Less Travelled Routes: A Campervan Adventure for Every Age
A Journey Beyond the Usual NZ Paths
Encircled by rugged peaks and crystal-clear waters, Queenstown stands as the ultimate launch point for a campervan adventure unlike any other. Whether you’re seeking gentle routes with panoramic stops or thrilling landscapes with breathtaking vistas, the surrounding pathways offer an experience tailored for all. For those traveling with young children or seeking a leisurely drive, this curated selection highlights the most picturesque, accessible, and enjoyable routes, ensuring a journey filled with comfort and discovery.
5 Queenstown Routes That Redefine the NZ Road Trip Experience
What Makes Queenstown the Ideal Starting Point?
Positioned at the heart of New Zealand’s southern wonders, Queenstown offers:
- ✔️ Effortless access to diverse terrains, from lush valleys to alpine stretches.
- ✔️ A variety of routes, ranging from swift excursions to full-day explorations.
- ✔️ Rest stops with stunning views, perfect for breaks and capturing memories.
- ✔️ Low-density traffic, ensuring a relaxed experience behind the wheel.
Regardless of whether you’re looking for a tranquil retreat or a scenic adventure, this guide will help chart the perfect course.
Route 1: The Path to Glenorchy (An Artist’s Dreamscape)
Distance: 46 km | Drive Duration: ~45 minutes | Road Type: Smooth coastal drive
Heading west on the Glenorchy-Queenstown Road, this is a mesmerizing trail that follows the curving shoreline of Lake Wakatipu as it arcs north at Rat Point, which is a picturesque spot to pull over despite the name. This journey features majestic ridges, golden meadows, and endless blues of the water below. Lord of the Rings fans shouldn’t miss the Ithilien Lookout, which if you know, you know. It’s a small detour off the main road, about 16 minutes from Queenstown.
Highlights for Every Explorer:
- ✔️ Straightforward, scenic drive with wide-open views.
- ✔️ Famed for its role in cinematic masterpieces.
- ✔️ At the end of the trail, Glenorchy offers a peaceful stop with charming cafés.
Pause & Marvel: The iconic Glenorchy Wharf, where the mountains meet the sky.
Route 2: The Timeless Charm of Arrowtown
Distance: 20 km | Drive Duration: ~20 minutes | Road Type: Paved, gentle inclines
Winding through gentle slopes, this route leads to Arrowtown, a picturesque town wrapped in history, with tree-lined streets and an ambiance reminiscent of a bygone era. On your way you will crossover the Shotover River, which we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention is the home of the famous Shotover Jet, a jetboat thrill ride that’s sure to get your heart pumping. After that, you’ll drive through the quaint Arthurs Point, before being surrounded by Central Otago farmland on either side. When you’re ready to head back to Queenstown, you can take the Arrowtown-Lake Hayes Road for a different scenic perspective.
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
- ✔️ A short, easy cruise with no complex turns.
- ✔️ A walk through time — cobblestone alleys, restored structures, and gold rush heritage.
- ✔️ Seasonal transformations — a fiery palette of reds and oranges in autumn.
Pause & Marvel: In April, this destination transforms into a golden wonderland.
Route 3: The Vineyard Valley of Cromwell & Wanaka
Distance: 68 km | Drive Duration: ~1.5 hours | Road Type: Two options—highland ascent or valley detour
Two distinct paths lead to Wanaka:
- - The High Road (Crown Range)—A sweeping ascent with sky-high perspectives. This route is slightly faster.
- - The Low Road (Cromwell)—A more relaxed drive, weaving through orchards and vine-laden hills.
Which journey you will take from Queenstown to Wanaka will depend on how much time you have, the weather and what you’d prefer to see along the way. The High Road is about 15 minutes quicker (depending on the weather) and weaves through valleys and past Cardrona, one of the many ski fields in the region. The Low Road takes you through Cromwell and past the Goldfields Mining Centre. It largely avoids mountain ranges in favour of farmland and lake shores along State Highway 6.
Tailored for Every Pace:
- ✔️ Families will enjoy the quirky attractions in Wanaka.
- ✔️ Those seeking a laid-back pace can meander through boutique vineyards.
- ✔️ Rest stops abound, ideal for unwinding mid-journey.
Pause & Marvel: Fresh fruit stalls in Cromwell serve up the sweetest flavors of the region.
Route 4: The Tranquil Shores of Te Anau
Distance: 170 km | Drive Duration: ~2 hours | Road Type: Open highways, minimal elevation changes
Heading out past the airport and then south past Double Cone, you’ll be on your way to the gateway to Fiordland National Park. This impossibly scenic trip will take you along the southern edge of Lake Wakatipu, before crossing over into Southland and heading west into sparsely populated farmland. Leading to the pristine lakeside retreat of Te Anau, this drive is characterized by rolling pastures, glistening waters, and forested expanses that make for an effortlessly peaceful experience. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a glistening lake with the spectacular National Park opposite.
A Drive That Feels Like a Retreat:
- ✔️ Perfect for those who enjoy a smooth, uninterrupted ride.
- ✔️ A chance to experience New Zealand’s vast, untouched landscapes.
- ✔️ Lakeside pathways invite a slow, relaxing stop along the way.
Pause & Marvel: Glow-in-the-dark wonders await at a hidden cavern.
Route 5: The Grand Passage to the Milford Sound
Distance: 288 km | Drive Duration: ~4–5 hours | Road Type: A mix of straight roads and winding cliffside routes
Although a short distance as the crow flies, there is no direct route from Queenstown to Milford Sound, which is an incredibly stunning area of Fiordland National Park. Rather than taking the trek all the way from Queenstown, you may wish to stay a night in Te Anau before tackling the final stretch. Whichever way you do it, this is arguably the most breathtaking drive in the country, marked by glacial valleys, cascading waterfalls, and a descent into the heart of an ancient wonderland. There are so many places to stop for photos, from Lake Fergys Lookout to Hundred Falls, that you’ll want to allow as much time as possible for this drive.
A Drive Unlike Any Other:
- ✔️ Postcard-worthy landscapes at every turn.
- ✔️ Options for overnight stays to break up the long journey.
- ✔️ A water excursion awaits at the destination, allowing for a seamless transition from land to sea.
Pause & Marvel: The reflective stillness of Mirror Lakes, where the scenery duplicates itself.
Tips for a Seamless Journey
✔️ Plan fuel stops—Some areas have limited refueling stations, so it’s wise to top up before venturing out.
✔️ Carry refreshments—A well-stocked supply of snacks and drinks ensures a comfortable ride.
✔️ Check conditions ahead of time—Elevated routes may experience sudden weather shifts.
✔️ Drive at a comfortable rhythm—Pause when needed, take in the surroundings, and savor the experience.
A Campervan Adventure for Every Explorer
From short, relaxed getaways to expansive, awe-inspiring excursions, the landscapes surrounding Queenstown cater to every kind of traveler. Whether you’re embarking with curious young minds or seeking the quiet comfort of nature’s embrace in New Zealand, each route offers a tailored experience, rich with beauty and discovery.
