10 Epic Spots Around Glenorchy & Paradise – From Locals Who’ve Been There
1. The Drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy
Let’s start with one of the most scenic drives in the world – no exaggeration!
We’ve done this South Island drive many times and it never gets old. Think mirror lakes, misty mountains, and curves that make you want to pull over every 10 minutes for photos.
This is why we love hiring with Motorhome Republic — having your camper means you can stop whenever you want, make a cuppa, and just soak in the view.
2. Moke Lake – Queenstown, New Zealand
Moke Lake is a peaceful alpine lake just 20 minutes from Queenstown, surrounded by mountains and perfect for photography, walking, and kayaking.
Its calm, reflective waters make it a favourite spot for sunrise and sunset. Easily accessible by car or campervan,
it's a hidden gem for those wanting a quieter escape into nature.
3. Glenorchy Waterfront Boardwalk
Ever wanted to walk into a postcard? That’s the Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway.
It’s peaceful, flat, and gives you that stunning view of the Humboldt Mountains reflected in still water. We even spotted a heron last time!
If you’ve got a camper, there are places nearby to stay the night — and waking up here is magic.
(Yep, we booked our van with Motorhome Republic again – smooth as ever.)
4. Glenorchy Jetty
This is the photo spot. We always bring coffee down here in the morning when we’re staying nearby.
Bonus: if you’re into early sunrises or moody mists, it’s a photographer’s dream.
Easy to park, easy to relax — exactly why campervans make sense out here.
5. Lord of the Rings Locations Tour
If you're a fan of Middle-earth, this is your playground.
Paradise was literally used as the backdrop for Isengard and Lothlórien.
We geeked out big time – and you can either take a tour or go exploring yourself.
Book a Lord of Rings Locations Tour
Having a rental car or campervan lets you follow your own adventure — no need to stay on someone else's schedule. That’s why we always use Motorhome Republic.
6. Paradise Road (Literally)
Yes, there’s a real road called “Paradise.” And yes — it absolutely lives up to its name.
Narrow, winding, and surrounded by forest and mountains, this drive feels like a secret path into a fairytale.
Heads up: a campervan or SUV is ideal out here. We always filter for those on Motorhome Republic to make sure we’re getting the right wheels.
7. Earnslaw Burn Track
This one’s for the hikers. It’s a full-day mission, but the reward?
Waterfalls tumbling from a glacier, a valley of tussock grass, and barely another soul in sight.
We parked up the night before in a DOC campsite — one of the best things about camper travel in NZ.
And again, couldn’t have done it without our Motorhome Republic booking.
8. Rees & Dart Rivers
If you're into 4WD exploring, trout fishing, or river picnics, this is your zone.
We found an epic riverside spot for lunch and watched jetboats zoom past while we just... chilled.
Freedom camping along these valleys is a must-do — just make sure your vehicle’s self-contained (easy to filter on Motorhome Republic).
9. Kinloch Lodge
Looking for a hot meal and warm vibes? Kinloch Lodge is a historic gem tucked between mountains and lake.
We've eaten here on every trip — nothing like a good feed after a big day outdoors.
Bonus tip: there’s a DOC campground nearby that’s super affordable if you’re in a camper.
10. Mt Alfred Lookout
This is a cheeky uphill walk but gives you one of the most rewarding views around.
We brought a thermos of coffee and just sat at the top taking it all in — Queenstown to the south, Paradise to the north.
You’ll want to be up early for this one — another perk of having your bed on wheels!
11. Just... Being in Paradise
Honestly, some of the best memories we have are from doing nothing in Paradise.
Reading in the campervan while it rained. Sitting under the stars. Making breakfast with that insane view.
When you're not rushing to a hotel or bus stop, you experience things differently.
That’s why we love booking with Motorhome Republic — it’s freedom, flexibility, and Kiwi-style travel at its best.
