Discover the Serenity of Lake Quill
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Lake Quill in Southland, New Zealand, a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
Lake Quill, nestled in the breathtaking Southland region of New Zealand, is a stunning natural gem that beckons tourists with its tranquil waters and picturesque landscapes. Surrounded by majestic mountains and lush greenery, this pristine lake offers a serene escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're looking to hike the scenic trails, enjoy a leisurely picnic by the water's edge, or simply soak in the spectacular views, Lake Quill is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring New Zealand's South Island.
A brief summary to Lake Quill
- Southland, NZ
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning views and perfect lighting for photography.
- Bring a picnic and enjoy the serene surroundings by the lake.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes if you plan to explore the walking trails around the lake.
- Check the weather beforehand, as conditions can change rapidly in this region.
Getting There
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Car
From Milford Sound, head towards the Milford Sound Highway (State Highway 94). Follow the signs for Milford Sound and continue along the highway for about 15 kilometers. You will pass beautiful landscapes, so keep your camera ready! As you approach the end of the highway, look for the turn-off to the Lake Quill track. The track starts at the end of the road, near the Milford Sound visitor center. Parking is available at the visitor center, but make sure to check for any parking fees, which typically range from NZD 10 to NZD 20 per day.
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Hiking
After parking your car at the Milford Sound visitor center, begin your hike on the Lake Quill track. The trailhead is well-marked and starts just behind the visitor center. The hike to Lake Quill takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours one way and is moderately difficult. You'll be walking through stunning rainforest and may encounter some steep sections. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring water and snacks.
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Public Transport
If you prefer public transportation, take a bus from Te Anau to Milford Sound. Several companies offer this service, and the round trip can cost around NZD 90 to NZD 120. Upon arrival in Milford Sound, you can either hike to Lake Quill as described above or join a guided tour that may include the hike. Check with your bus operator for available tour options and costs.
Discover more about Lake Quill
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Worsley Hut
17.2 km
Experience the tranquility of Worsley Hut in Fiordland National Park, a rustic mountain cabin surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Fiordland Discovery
22.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound with Fiordland Discovery, where adventure meets nature in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Tutoko Valley River Hike
23.7 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty of the Tutoko Valley River Hike in Fiordland National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
SPIRIT OF MILFORD
24.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound with Spirit of Milford, where nature meets adventure in New Zealand's stunning fjord.
Falls Creek Falls
28.0 km
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Falls Creek Falls, a serene escape in Fiordland National Park, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Kiosk Creek Campsite (DOC)
29.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Kiosk Creek Campsite in Fiordland National Park, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Cascade Creek Historic Camp site
29.8 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking beauty of Cascade Creek Historic Camp Site in Fiordland National Park, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
Lake Gunn North Viewpoint
30.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Lake Gunn North Viewpoint, a scenic haven in Fiordland National Park, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Eglinton Flats
35.2 km
Discover the serene landscapes and breathtaking views of Eglinton Flats, a must-visit destination in Southland, New Zealand, for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Walker Creek DOC Campsite
37.7 km
Discover the tranquility of Walker Creek DOC Campsite in Fiordland National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers and camping enthusiasts in New Zealand.
Routeburn Falls Hut
38.5 km
Discover the tranquility of Routeburn Falls Hut in Mount Aspiring National Park, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning landscapes and hiking adventures.
Routeburn Flats Hut
39.8 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Routeburn Flats Hut, a perfect retreat for hikers in the breathtaking Mount Aspiring National Park.
Routeburn Track Trailhead (Routeburn Shelter)
44.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fiordland at the Routeburn Track Trailhead, where nature's wonders await every adventurer.
Mount Nicholas
62.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and breathtaking vistas of Mount Nicholas, a hidden gem in New Zealand's stunning Otago region.
Luxmore Hut
64.7 km
Experience the beauty of Fiordland National Park at Luxmore Hut, a cozy retreat with stunning views and access to breathtaking trails.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sutherland Falls
0.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Sutherland Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the world, in New Zealand's stunning Fiordland National Park.
Mintaro Hut
3.5 km
Discover Mintaro Hut: a serene mountain retreat on the iconic Milford Track, surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Fiordland National Park.
Maureen falls
4.4 km
Explore Maureen Falls along the Milford Track – a breathtaking waterfall surrounded by stunning landscapes in Southland, New Zealand.
Dumpling Hut
5.5 km
Discover the flavors of Milford Sound at Dumpling Hut, where breathtaking views meet delectable dumplings in Fiordland's serene landscape.
Mackay Falls
10.3 km
Explore the stunning Mackay Falls in Fiordland National Park, a breathtaking waterfall surrounded by lush landscapes and adventure trails.
Giant Gate Falls
15.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Giant Gate Falls, a stunning waterfall in Fiordland, New Zealand, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
1855 lookout
19.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes at 1855 Lookout, a must-visit tourist attraction in Southland, New Zealand.
Milford Track Trailhead (Sandfly Point)
19.7 km
Explore the stunning beauty of the Milford Track Trailhead at Sandfly Point, a gateway to Fiordland's breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable hiking experiences.
The Chasm Viewing Bridge
20.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of The Chasm Viewing Bridge in Fiordland National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in New Zealand.
Homer Tunnel West
20.3 km
Experience the enchanting history and breathtaking scenery at Homer Tunnel West, a remarkable landmark on New Zealand's scenic route.
Homer Tunnel
20.8 km
Experience the awe-inspiring Homer Tunnel, a stunning engineering achievement set in the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand's Fiordland National Park.
Milford Track
21.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Milford Track, New Zealand's iconic hiking destination, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife.
Glade Wharf
21.2 km
Explore Glade Wharf, an awe-inspiring hiking area on the Milford Track, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers in New Zealand.
Milford Sound Marina
21.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Milford Sound Marina, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning fjords and natural wonders.
Sinbad Gully
21.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Sinbad Gully, a serene ravine in Southland, New Zealand, perfect for hiking and nature photography.
Essential places to dine
Pio Pio Restaurant
22.3 km
Discover authentic New Zealand cuisine amidst breathtaking landscapes at Pio Pio Restaurant in Fiordland National Park.
Sandfly Cafe Te Anau
67.4 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and fresh coffee at Sandfly Cafe Te Anau - your perfect start before exploring Fiordland's wonders.
The Ranch Bar & Grill
67.4 km
Experience family-friendly dining at The Ranch Bar & Grill in Te Anau, where hearty meals meet warm hospitality amidst stunning New Zealand landscapes.
The Fat Duck
67.4 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine at The Fat Duck in Te Anau—where local flavors meet culinary creativity.
Ristorante Pizzeria Paradiso
67.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Pizzeria Paradiso in Te Anau – where every dish is crafted with passion and tradition.
Redcliff Restaurant and bar
67.5 km
Experience exquisite dining at Redcliff Restaurant and Bar in Te Anau – where stunning views meet delectable local cuisine.
Naturally Fiordland
67.6 km
Savor local flavors at Naturally Fiordland, where culinary excellence meets stunning views in Te Anau's heart.
Glow Worm Restaurant
67.7 km
Experience the flavors of New Zealand at Glow Worm Restaurant in Te Anau – where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Jimmy Cook's Kiwi Kitchen
68.3 km
Experience authentic New Zealand cuisine at Jimmy Cook's Kiwi Kitchen with stunning lakefront views in Te Anau.
Lokal Kitchen & Bar
76.0 km
Experience exquisite New Zealand flavors at Lokal Kitchen & Bar - your go-to spot for delicious pizzas and European cuisine in Queenstown.
Nest Kitchen + Bar
76.0 km
Discover Nest Kitchen + Bar in Queenstown: where stunning views meet exceptional local cuisine for an unforgettable dining experience.
Mackenzies Restaurant & Bar
76.5 km
Discover exquisite New Zealand cuisine with stunning views at Mackenzies Restaurant & Bar in Queenstown's scenic Fernhill.
Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar
76.7 km
Experience fine dining with breathtaking views at Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar in Queenstown – where culinary excellence meets stunning scenery.
Lombardi Restaurant
77.3 km
Experience exquisite New Zealand cuisine at Lombardi Restaurant in Queenstown - where local flavors meet stunning views.
Bespoke Kitchen
77.4 km
Discover Bespoke Kitchen in Queenstown: A delightful restaurant offering fresh vegan and vegetarian dishes in a cozy setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Descend Scuba Diving - Milford Sound
21.3 km
Explore the underwater wonders of Milford Sound with Descend Scuba Diving, where adventure meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Ultimate Hikes - Mitre Peak Lodge
21.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Milford Sound at Ultimate Hikes - Mitre Peak Lodge, your gateway to unforgettable adventures in Fiordland.
Discover Milford Sound Cruises Information Centre & Café
22.0 km
Discover Milford Sound’s beauty at the Information Centre & Café – your gateway to adventure in New Zealand’s stunning fjords.
Milford Sound Lodge - Premium Chalets
22.2 km
Discover the unmatched beauty of Milford Sound at Milford Sound Lodge - Premium Chalets, where luxury meets nature in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Milford Sound
23.0 km
Experience the unparalleled beauty of Milford Sound, a stunning fjord in New Zealand's Fiordland National Park, where nature's wonders await.
Harrison Cove
24.9 km
Explore the breathtaking scenery and tranquil waters of Harrison Cove in Southland, New Zealand, a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Mrs Woolly's General Store
52.5 km
Experience the charm of Mrs Woolly's General Store, the perfect blend of gifts, crafts, and café delights in the heart of Glenorchy, New Zealand.
Stew's Place
67.0 km
Explore Stew's Place in Te Anau for premium leather goods and personalized service, capturing the essence of New Zealand craftsmanship.
Fiordland Packs
67.2 km
Explore Fiordland's breathtaking landscapes with top-quality gear from Fiordland Packs, your trusted outdoor sports store in Te Anau.
Mitre 10 Te Anau
67.3 km
Discover top-quality home improvement supplies and expert advice at Mitre 10 Te Anau, your go-to hardware store in New Zealand's stunning Fiordland region.
FreshChoice Te Anau
67.4 km
Explore FreshChoice Te Anau for all your grocery needs, featuring local produce and international delights in the heart of Fiordland.
Fiordland Frontier Supplies
67.4 km
Explore the best outdoor clothing and equipment at Fiordland Frontier Supplies, your adventure starts here in Te Anau, New Zealand.
Inspire
67.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Inspire, Te Anau's charming gift shop showcasing the spirit of New Zealand.
Giant Variety Store Te Anau
67.4 km
Uncover a diverse range of products at the Giant Variety Store in Te Anau, your one-stop shop for unique souvenirs and essentials.
Paper Plus Te Anau
67.5 km
Explore Paper Plus Te Anau: Your go-to spot for books, stationery, and local treasures in the heart of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Milford Sound Public Carpark
22.0 km
Discover Milford Sound's breathtaking beauty from the convenient Public Carpark, your gateway to adventure in New Zealand's Fiordland.
Milford Sound Lodge - Campervan Park
22.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound at the Milford Sound Lodge - Campervan Park, the perfect spot for nature lovers and adventurers.
Milford Road Merchant
67.0 km
Discover the cozy Milford Road Merchant in Te Anau – your perfect stop for premium coffee and delicious takeaway meals amidst New Zealand's natural beauty.
Black Dog Bar
67.4 km
Discover the vibrant culture and exquisite cocktails of Black Dog Bar in Te Anau, the perfect spot for relaxation and culinary delight.
Radha's Indian Restaurant
67.4 km
Experience the rich flavors and spices of authentic Indian cuisine at Radha's Indian Restaurant in Te Anau.
La Toscana Pizzeria
67.4 km
Experience the essence of Italy at La Toscana Pizzeria in Te Anau, where every dish is crafted with passion and served with warmth.
Hollyford Cafe
67.5 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Hollyford Cafe, a cozy culinary haven in Te Anau, offering fresh, local cuisine in a charming atmosphere.
Bailiez Cafe & Bar
67.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Te Anau at Bailiez Cafe & Bar, where delicious food meets a warm atmosphere in the heart of Fiordland.
Armadillos Te Anau
67.8 km
Discover local flavors at Armadillos Te Anau, where comfort food meets scenic views of the stunning Fiordland region.
The Moose Bar and Armadillos Restaurant
67.8 km
Discover The Moose Bar and Armadillos Restaurant, a vibrant pub in Te Anau with stunning lake views and a diverse menu for all tastes.
The Explorer Bar
67.9 km
Discover the cozy atmosphere of The Explorer Bar in Te Anau, where local wines and stunning views create an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
Alpine Centre Cafe & Bar
68.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of scenic views and culinary delights at the Alpine Centre Cafe & Bar in Southland, New Zealand.
Reds Bar
77.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Reds Bar in Queenstown, the perfect spot to unwind after your adventures.
Atlas Beer Cafe
77.5 km
Discover the best local brews and delightful bites at Atlas Beer Cafe, the heart of Queenstown's vibrant pub scene.
Pub on Wharf
77.6 km
Discover the lively Pub on Wharf in Queenstown, where delicious food, local brews, and live music create an unforgettable atmosphere.
