You'll go past the awesome Mirror Lakes that shine like emeralds on to the rugged coast, the Avenue of the Disappearing Mountain and Cascade Creek. New Zealand’s only native land mammal, the long tail bats live in the forest surrounding Cascade Creek.

Nearby Lake Gunn is home to paradise ducks and the forest is full of lots of many indigenous species of birds. The Divide close to Milford Sounds is just that. It's the lowest east-west pass in the Southern Alps and the vegetation alters completely. Walk up to Key Summit and go through alpine bogs in the process.

Three rivers flow from this region; the Humbolt Falls and Lake Marian provide lovely views. As you near Milford Sound you'll pass through the Homer Tunnel, which goes into the Cleddau Canyon and resurfaces after a 1207m dip.

You'll also see great views of Mt. Tutoko (2746m), the highest peak in Fjordland. Walks around this area are a nature freaks delight. It's totally undeveloped and unspoilt.

The Hollyford Track leads to Martins Bay and is another good track to walk on. For those who want a longer walk, there are places to stay in the area. Trekker’s Alert! Don’t go too far unless you're well equipped and experienced.

Milford Sound - Finally, you reach Milford Sound. This incredibly outrageously beautiful place is the most famous destination in NZ.

Imagine a 22km fjord surrounded by huge peaks including the 1695m Mitre Peak and a blue mirror of clear water that reflect every inch of perfection.

Even the rain that falls just about all the time only makes the area look like a series of thousands of waterfalls. It's actually even more beautiful when it rains. (Don't forget the raincoat!)

Milford Track is considered the finest walk in the world and most people head there just for this walk. You'll pass through rainforests, mountain passes, the 630m Sutherland Falls make it an all in one paradise. Book in during the summer season because though its not off limits in winter, its often deserted and no facilities are available. Also avalanches make it a risk during winters. There are loads of booking agents in town who'll book the track for you.

Walkers Alert! There is a limit on the amount of people that are allowed to do the walk each year so book in advance to guarantee your place.

Milford Sound Cruises are just fabulous. You can arrive or leave here by one of the cruises that heads to Te Anau. Otherwise, day cruises will take you to Mitre Peak, Bowen Falls and the hundreds of other falls along the way! You'll also be taken to an underwater observatory to see the reef system and learn a thing or to about it. The Overnight Cruises are great to take.

Apart from being on the lake at night, you'll see dolphins, seals and penguins, and you can fish, swim, kayak and go ashore when the boat docks.

Accommodation: If you stay, the Mitre Peak Lodge will only cater to those who actually do the guided tour with them. You can stay at the Milford Lodge, the only other place in town. The accommodation here is very basic - maybe what you need to get a feel of the place. A few cafes and bars do serve food, but amenities are very limited.

 For detailed country and visitor information, see New Zealand.