Glenorchy-Queenstown Road is a great drive with spectacular views

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

Glenorchy-Queenstown Road

How long is Glenorchy-Queenstown Road?

The road following the edge of Lake Wakatipu is entirely paved. It’s 46.3km (29 miles) long, running along the shore of the deep, S-shaped Lake Wakatipu.

Is the Glenorchy-Queenstown Road challenging?

The road has plenty of bends and ups and downs too. It is steep, curvy, and also narrow in some parts. 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 snow-capped mountains as the backdrop.

Where was The Lord of the Rings filmed?

Surrounded by mountains, the 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.

How long does it take to drive the Glenorchy-Queenstown Road?

Plan 1 hour to complete the drive without stops, although allow longer if stops are made to take photos and explore the lake and the mountains around it passes through. There are a few lookout points to stop along the way. It’s one of the Top Coastal Road Trips in the South Island of New Zealand.

 

 

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