Glenorchy-Queenstown Road is a great drive with spectacular views

Located in central South Island of New Zealand, the Glenorchy-Queenstown Road is a very scenic drive winding alongside the shimmering blue Lake Wakatipu, a deep glacial lake surrounded by soaring mountains, famous for its scenic beauty. It's one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world.

The road following the edge of Lake Wakatipu is totally paved. It’s 46.3km (29 miles) long running along the shore of the deep, S-shaped Lake Wakatipu. The road along the lake has plenty of bends, and plenty of ups and downs too. It is steep and curvy and also narrow along certain regions.

The winding route links the towns of Queenstown, on the shore of the lake, set against the dramatic Southern Alps and Glenorchy, at the northern end of the lake. It creates a stunning setting of the lake with snowcapped mountains as the backdrop. Lake Wakatipu has been used as a location for a number of films including The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. Plan 1 hour to complete the journey. The drive provides breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the mountain landscape. The scenery constantly changes along this drive as the road twists and turns and has plenty of ups and downs as well. There are a few lookout points to stop along the way which are an absolute must.