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Milford Sound is 2 hours driving from Te Anau and 4–5 hours from Queenstown. Aside from these two options, accommodations near Milford Sound are scarce (the Milford Lodge has a monopoly on the area). Most travelers spend about a half day at Milford Sound—the cruises take about 2 hours and there are some short walking paths as well. Those who plan to kayak should stay in Te Anau or closer—the kayaking trips generally leave early in the morning.
Lodging in the Milford Sound Area
Milford Sound Lodge (2 km from Milford Sound)
The Milford Sound Lodge is by far the closest accommodation to Milford Sound and the only place to stay within 50 kilometers. The private chalets along the river get high praise and the rest is backpackers rooms and campsites. Despite being steadily crowded, the lodge is likeable and the location can't be beat. Reserve early.
Knob’s Flat (54 km from Milford Sound)
Knob's Flat is located halfway between Te Anau and Milford Sound along the Milford Road. The accommodations are basic—there are six simple cabins and campsites—but the Eglinton Valley is spectacular and the morning drive to visit Milford Sound is a snap. If you’re looking to take in Fiordland with more solitude than the Milford Lodge, Knob’s Flat is a great option.
Camping Along the Milford Road
New Zealand’s Department of Conservation (DOC) operates 10 standard campsites on the Milford Road between Te Anau and Milford Sound. Standard campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. More information is available at DOC visitor centers—the nearest to Milford Sound is in Te Anau (open 8am to 6pm during the high season).
Nearby Towns
Te Anau (118 km from Milford Sound)
The lakefront town of Te Anau is 2 hours driving from Milford Sound depending on traffic. On the whole, Te Anau is an ideal place to stay with a beautiful location, good cafes and restaurants, and ample area activities. More, the drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound is much more manageable than it is from Queenstown.
Queenstown (178 km from Milford Sound)
Queenstown is 4–5 hours driving from Milford Sound and offers the widest range of accommodations. It’s fine to visit Milford Sound directly from Queenstown—many people do—but it makes for a very full day that is heavy on transportation. Stay in Queenstown if your schedule dictates but those with time should consider the options above.
Milford Sound Accommodation Map
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