F I O R D L A N D 

HIKING

The landscape of the Fiordland National Park, the largest national park in New Zealand, was carved by glaciers over 100,000 years ago. The park showcases breathtaking fiords, ancient rainforests and snowy mountain peaks. It is home to four of New Zealand's ten Great Walks, the Milford, Routeburn, Hump Ridge and Kepler tracks, earning Fiordland's title as the 'Walking Capital of the World'. 

DOUBTFUL SOUND

Lake Manapouri, visible from every room of Cabot Lodge, serves as the gateway to Doubtful Sound, also known as Patea, the ‘place of silence’. Doubtful Sound is ten times larger than its well-known cousin Milford Sound, and is almost untouched by man. The extraordinary sound with awe inspiring mountains, wildlife and waterfalls can be reached by boat, departing daily five minutes from Cabot Lodge. While there are multiple cruise companies with cruises almost hourly out of Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound has only one boat operator, with cruises departing twice, and in peak Summer, three times daily. When you are out cruising or kayaking the many arms of Doubtful Sound's fiords, you will be completely alone, which is the magic of the place. Like Milford Sound, the journey to Doubtful is part of the adventure, beginning with a cruise across Lake Manapouri and weaving between the lake's 33 islands. Upon reaching the base of the lake, visitors take a coach trip over the Wilmot Pass, through stunning native rainforest and jaw dropping vistas, before reaching Doubtful Sound for the three-hour cruise of the fiord.  

MILFORD SOUND

Milford Sound, possibly the most photographed location in New Zealand, can be reached by vehicle via the spectacular Milford Road, which begins 20 minutes from Cabot Lodge. Milford Sound has been called the 'eighth wonder of the world', and with cascading waterfalls and sheer cliff faces emerging from inky blue waters, visitors will soon see why. The Milford Road is an adventure in itself. The road is not just part of the journey; it is a destination. Visitors can explore the highlights outlined in the Department of Conservation Milford Road Map to ensure they do not miss out on any of the hidden gems on route. Upon arrival in Milford Sound, many visitors are surprised to find very little infrastructure. The vision has always been for the natural beauty to standalone, with the Boat Terminal and a small cafe serving as the main buildings in the Sound. While many visitors are worried about the crowds in Milford, the team at Cabot Lodge know the secrets for how best to experience Milford and we are always happy to plan fantastic day trips to Milford Sound on small, luxury cruises, without the crowds. 

WILDLIFE

The abundant wildlife is a key element of Fiordland’s charm, home to several threatened native animals, as well as Bottlenose dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, Fiordland crested penguins, and the cheeky mountain parrot, the Kea.

Fiordland is also one of only two locations in the country where visitors can view glowworms. These mesmerising insects are located on the shores of Lake Te Anau in a network of limestone caves filled with sculpted rock, whirlpools and a roaring underground waterfall.

RESTAURANTS AND SHOPPING

Fiordland comprises two urban centers, Manapouri and Te Anau. Cabot Lodge overlooks Lake Manapouri, with the vibrant lake and township of Te Anau a mere 15 minute drive from the Lodge. The townships offer visitors a variety of eateries, from boutique food trucks to award winning restaurants, as well as shopping, a bird park, and stunning nature reserves.

SCENIC DRIVES

The journey from Cabot Lodge down to the South Coast of New Zealand's South Island, is one of the most picturesque journeys in the country. Visitors begin with the Rakatu Wetlands, the historic Clifden Suspension Bridge and the mysterious Lake Hauroko, before hitting the coast to visit Gemstone Beach, Cosy Nook, Colac Bay, and Riverton - the 'Riviera of the South'. There is so much to see and explore along this two-hour section of rugged and untouched New Zealand coastline. The Southern Scenic Route web page is full of wonderful information and the team at Cabot Lodge has a great map for all guests with all of the best highlights included.