Te Anau : A gateway to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound | New Zealand скачать в хорошем качестве

Te Anau : A gateway to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound | New Zealand

Te Anau : A gateway to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound | New Zealand #teanau #fiordland #milfordsound #southisland #newzealand #drivingandfilming Nestled on the eastern shores of Lake Te Anau, the town of Te Anau is often referred to as the "Gateway to Fiordland." Located in the Southland region of New Zealand's South Island, it’s a tranquil yet adventurous destination renowned for its stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and as a jumping-off point for exploring the nearby Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. 1. Lake Te Anau: The Jewel of the Region Lake Te Anau, the largest lake in the South Island and second largest in New Zealand, is the centerpiece of the town. Natural Beauty: The lake covers 344 square kilometers and is surrounded by the majestic Kepler and Murchison Mountains. Its serene blue waters reflect the dramatic landscapes, making it a paradise for photographers. Activities on the Lake: Visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, and fishing. It's also a popular spot for cruising, offering a peaceful way to soak in the scenery. 2. Fiordland National Park: A World of Wonder Te Anau is the main access point for exploring Fiordland National Park, one of the most rugged and untouched areas in New Zealand. Milford Sound: A must-visit fiord known for its sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife. Tours from Te Anau often include scenic drives along the famous Milford Road, one of the most picturesque routes in the world. Doubtful Sound: Quieter and less visited than Milford, Doubtful Sound offers a tranquil experience with deep fjords, rainforests, and abundant marine life, including seals and dolphins. 3. Hiking and Outdoor Adventures Te Anau is a hub for some of the world’s most famous hiking trails: Kepler Track: A 60-kilometer loop starting and ending in Te Anau, this Great Walk offers diverse landscapes, from beech forests to alpine ridges. Milford Track: Known as the “finest walk in the world,” this 53-kilometer trail leads to Milford Sound, offering waterfalls, valleys, and lush greenery. Routeburn Track: Another Great Walk connecting Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Park, with spectacular views of valleys and peaks. Shorter Walks: For those short on time, trails like the Lake 2 Lake Cycle Trail and Te Anau Wildlife Centre Walk are perfect. 4. Te Anau Glowworm Caves One of the region's most unique attractions is the Te Anau Glowworm Caves. Experience: Visitors take a boat ride across Lake Te Anau to the caves, where a guided tour showcases the mesmerizing glowworms lighting up the dark caverns. What to Expect: In addition to the glowworms, the tour features underground waterfalls and limestone formations. 5. Wildlife and Nature Encounters Fiordland’s untouched wilderness is home to some incredible wildlife: Birdwatching: Spot native birds like the Takahe, an endangered flightless bird found in the nearby Murchison Mountains. Marine Life: Dolphins, seals, and even rare penguins can be seen in the nearby sounds. Te Anau Wildlife Centre: This sanctuary offers a chance to see native species up close, including the kea, kaka, and the elusive Takahe. 6. Te Anau Town: Relaxation and Hospitality Despite being a small town, Te Anau is well-equipped for tourists: Cafes and Restaurants: From casual lakeside cafes to fine dining, visitors can savor local delicacies like fresh seafood and Southland lamb. Accommodation: Options range from luxury lodges and cozy motels to backpacker hostels and camping grounds. Shopping: Explore boutique stores offering locally made crafts, souvenirs, and outdoor gear. 7. Seasons and When to Visit Summer (Dec-Feb): Ideal for hiking, water activities, and exploring Fiordland. Autumn (Mar-May): Fewer crowds and beautiful autumn colors. Winter (Jun-Aug): Snowcapped mountains and a quiet, magical atmosphere. Great for photography and enjoying indoor attractions. Spring (Sep-Nov): A vibrant time with blooming flowers and active wildlife. 8. Practical Tips for Visitors Getting There: Te Anau is a 2-hour drive from Queenstown and about 2.5 hours from Invercargill. Packing Essentials: Sturdy walking shoes, waterproof gear (Fiordland is known for sudden rain), and warm clothing for cooler nights. Local Tours: Guided tours to Milford and Doubtful Sounds, glowworm cave visits, and kayaking trips are highly recommended for a hassle-free experience. #LakeTeAnau #MilfordSound #DoubtfulSound #GlowwormCaves #southislandnz