Arguably one of the most spectacular places in the world, Fiordland National Park is located at the most southwestern corner of New Zealand’s South Island. Within this remarkable wilderness is the rugged beauty of Milford Sound. Considered the “eighth wonder of the world,” Milford sound boasts lofty cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and thick rainforests offering an experience like no other in raw, virgin nature.
When you are planning your trip to visit this beautiful landscape, you may consider whether it is best to stay in Milford Sound itself, or whether it is better to stay in Te Anau, a small lakeside townthat acts as an entrance gateway to Fiordland; as attractive as it is, with nature’s bounty, the town is well-endowed with modern amenities.
Both places have their merits, serving a wide range of travellers. So, which is the better spot to stay in? Let this guide help you choose between being plunged into the wilderness of Milford Sound and enjoying the facilities and variance that Te Anau has to offer.
Milford Sound
Location & Accessibility
Milford Sound lies deep within Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its remote location means that getting there requires commitment. The journey from Queenstown to Milford Sound takes about four hours by car, winding through stunning mountain passes, deep valleys, and alongside pristine lakes. The final stretch, the Milford Road, is an experience in itself, filled with dramatic scenery and iconic viewpoints like the Homer Tunnel and the Chasm. However, due to its isolation, staying overnight in Milford Sound means truly stepping off the grid.
Accommodation Options
Milford Sound’s remoteness is matched by its limited accommodation options. The main choice for overnight stays is Milford Lodge, offering a range of options from dormitories to private chalets. It’s not a luxury resort, but it provides a cozy, rustic environment where you can relax after a day of exploring. Staying here puts you right in the heart of the fiord, surrounded by dramatic landscapes and serene wilderness.
Pros of Staying in Milford Sound
- Direct access to the fiord’s beauty at sunrise and sunset: One of the major benefits of staying in Milford Sound is being there during the quiet times of the day, before or after the crowds of day visitors arrive. The peacefulness at sunrise and sunset is unparalleled, allowing you to experience the fiord in its most tranquil state.
- Proximity to boat tours, kayaking, and hiking trails: Staying in Milford Sound means you’re just steps away from some of New Zealand’s top activities. Whether it’s taking a boat cruise through the fiord, kayaking beneath towering waterfalls, or hiking the famous Milford Track, adventure is right at your doorstep.
- Uninterrupted immersion in nature and wildlife: The remote setting offers the chance to fully disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. Watch as dolphins, seals, and even the rare Fiordland crested penguins make appearances in their natural habitat.
Cons of Staying in Milford Sound
- Limited services and amenities: With just one lodge and a couple of food options, staying in Milford Sound means you’re limited in terms of dining and entertainment. The emphasis is on nature, so if you’re looking for a variety of restaurants or nightlife, you won’t find it here.
- Higher accommodation costs and fewer dining options: Due to its isolation and limited options, accommodation in Milford Sound tends to be more expensive, and dining choices are limited to the basics offered by the lodge or self-catering.
- Remote location with fewer activities after dark: Once the sun sets, there’s little to do besides soaking in the surroundings and enjoying the silence of the wilderness. If you’re someone who likes to explore local towns, go shopping, or experience a variety of activities, you might feel a bit restricted here.
Te Anau
Location & Accessibility
Te Anau is a picturesque lakeside town located just two hours from Milford Sound and serves as the main gateway to Fiordland National Park. It’s far more accessible, with a variety of transportation options, including buses, private cars, and shuttles. Being on the edge of the national park, it offers a more convenient base for travellers who want to explore the region without being too far removed from modern conveniences.
Accommodation Options
In contrast to Milford Sound, Te Anau has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels and lakeside motels to budget-friendly holiday parks and campgrounds. Whether you’re looking for high-end comfort or simple, affordable lodging, Te Anau caters to all types of travellers.
Pros of Staying in Te Anau
- More dining options, supermarkets, and services: Te Anau offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, allowing you to enjoy different types of meals after a day of exploring. With supermarkets and shops nearby, you can stock up on supplies for your journey into Fiordland or have a relaxing evening in town.
- Greater variety of activities: While Milford Sound is focused on the fiord, Te Anau provides a wider range of experiences. You can take a lake cruise on Lake Te Anau, explore the famous Te Anau Glowworm Caves, or hike along the Kepler and Routeburn Tracks. The town also has plenty of walking trails, scenic lookouts, and even a small cinema.
- Easier to explore other parts of Fiordland: Te Anau is a more convenient base if you plan to explore the wider Fiordland region. From here, you can easily reach other stunning locations like Doubtful Sound, the Kepler Track, and Manapouri.
Cons of Staying in Te Anau
- Requires a 2-hour drive to Milford Sound: While Te Anau is much closer to Milford Sound than Queenstown, it’s still a two-hour drive each way. This can mean early starts and long days if your main goal is to explore Milford Sound itself.
- Less direct access to Milford Sound’s key attractions: Staying in Te Anau means you’ll need to travel each day to experience the fiord. While the drive is scenic, it doesn’t offer the immediate access that staying in Milford Sound does.
Key Comparisons
Scenery and Atmosphere
Milford Sound is all about dramatic, larger-than-life landscapes. With its steep cliffs, waterfalls, and dense rainforests, it offers an awe-inspiring experience, especially at dawn or dusk when the day-trippers have left. In contrast, Te Anau provides a more relaxed, laid-back vibe. The scenery around Lake Te Anau is still beautiful, but it lacks the raw intensity of Milford Sound.
Convenience
If convenience is key, Te Anau is the clear winner. Its central location, range of services, and accessibility make it a more comfortable base for those who prefer modern amenities. Milford Sound, on the other hand, is all about proximity to the natural wonders, and staying there is for those willing to trade convenience for immersion in one of the world’s most spectacular landscapes.
Cost
Te Anau offers more affordable accommodation and dining options, making it a better choice for budget-conscious travellers. Milford Sound’s limited accommodation tends to be pricier due to the remote location and scarcity of options.
Ultimately, the decision between staying in Milford Sound or Te Anau depends on your travel style and goals. For those seeking an immersive, once-in-a-lifetime experience in the heart of one of the world’s most iconic landscapes, Milford Sound is the clear choice. However, if you value comfort, convenience, and the ability to explore a wider area, Te Anau offers a more flexible and budget-friendly option.
