The adventure hub of New Zealand, Queenstown is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culinary scene and truly unforgettable experiences.

This includes the popular scenic drive from Queenstown to Te Anau, which attracts visitors from all around the world. Approximately 170 km in length, it can be done in around two hours – but opting for the direct route would be missing the point. This journey is all about delightful meandering, and it wouldn’t be complete without exploring the region’s extraordinary scenery, famous food and wine, and charming small towns.

The new Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV is the perfect companion for this iconic South Island adventure. Sporty, spacious and powerful – with an updated powertrain and 48V mild hybrid system – it’s more than equipped to tackle mountainous terrain.

Explore Queenstown

For breakfast with a view, start your day at Bespoke Kitchen. The window seats offer picture-perfect views of Queenstown’s famous peaks, and there are plenty of items from the all-day menu for those who are vegan or dairy-free (ambrosia pancakes with oat chocolate crumb and coco whip, anyone?). Plus, their fresh juices and smoothies are created in-house and provide the perfect energy boost to kickstart your day.

After breakfast, it’s only a few minutes’ drive to Steamer Wharf, where the historic steamship TSS Earnslaw departs for cruises across Lake Wakatipu. At over 80km long, Lake Wakatipu is New Zealand’s longest lake, and one of the area's most remarkable destinations. On board, you won’t want to miss the ship’s mini-museum and engine room, or the spectacular views of The Remarkables and Cecil Peak from the deck.

Disembark at Walter Peak High Country Farm on the lake’s south-western shore and spend a few hours exploring. Meet Scottish Highland Cattle, sheep and alpacas on a guided walk and marvel at the sheepdogs as they demonstrate their amazing skills.

All that fresh lake air and walking is bound to build a healthy appetite. Back in Queenstown, head to the famous Fergburger for one of their legendary gourmet burgers – they’re practically a rite of passage.

With mountain bike trails calling, take the 12-minute, lake-hugging route to 7 Mile Reserve. This is where the GLE SUV’s new multi-function steering wheel comes into its own – you can navigate, make a call, or change the music without ever having to take your hands off the steering wheel.

With trails for all levels, including fun challenges for more experienced riders, 7 Mile is a great place to test your mountain bike skills. Or, if you’re after a more chilled experience and some brisk mountain air, take an afternoon drive up to The Remarkables for sweeping views down to Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown and across the peaks.

Venture into vine country

Ready to explore further south? Head to Gibbston – a stunning valley located in the heart of Central Otago wine country – which is around 30 minutes from Queenstown. There are a couple of routes to choose from: take Malaghans Road and stop in historic Arrowtown, or choose the scenic route along Lake Hayes-Arrow Junction highway. Either way, the GLE SUV’s MBUX Augmented Reality Navigation can help you navigate through even the most confusing traffic situations and ensure you don’t lose your way.

Home to some of the region’s oldest vines, Gibbston has many cellar doors to choose from, but Chard Farm winery is unmissable. Overlooking the Kawarau and Shotover Rivers, the picturesque family-owned vineyard embraces regenerative viticulture practices and is known for its delicious cool-climate wines. Sip on a glass (or two, if you’re not the designated driver) while you soak up the idyllic setting.

Complete your Gibbston experience with an overnight stay in one of Kinross’ vineyard cottages. The boutique accommodation and bistro is also a cellar door to five world-class, small-production Central Otago wineries. Polish off a sourdough pizza and a glass of local wine before sinking into one of their super-comfy beds for the night.

Explore Otago’s playground

Rise bright and early the next day, ready for a new adventure. After indulging in Kinross’ complimentary gourmet continental buffet breakfast, follow State Highway 6 for about half an hour, then take a right turn to luxury estate Jack’s Point. Here, you can play a round of golf or head out for a walk along one of 25km of trails. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, stop at Jack’s restaurant on the Lake Tewa foreshore for a coffee or some lunch – it’s open all day.

Back on the road, the eastern curves of Lake Wakatipu soon come into view. This is the perfect time to open the GLE SUV’s panoramic sliding sunroof to let in the fresh mountain air. For the ultimate road trip vibe, head over to the Mercedes-Benz AU/NZ Spotify channel, turn up the volume on your favourite playlist, and experience the full effect of the GLE SUV’s first-class Burmester® surround sound system. Your passengers will thank you for it!

Kingston is an entry point to the 186km Around the Mountains Cycle Trail, so if you’re keen for more cycling, spend a few hours exploring the lake, high country and rural landscapes. In the heart of fly-fishing country, book a private guided fishing tour or head to the boat ramp and test your skills catching brown trout, rainbow trout, and salmon (note: you’ll need a fishing licence – season and day passes are available online at Fish and Game New Zealand).

Visit the "eighth wonder of the world"

Lake Te Anau beckons, but if you need a pick-me-up along the way, be sure to stop at Garston’s The Coffee Bomb. The cute coffee van also serves up hearty food – think burgers, sandwiches and classic New Zealand cakes and slices.

When you arrive in Te Anau, head out on the lake for a sail before checking in at the luxe Fiordland Lodge to plan the rest of your Fiordland adventure. And whatever you do, make sure you set some time aside for a day trip to Milford Sound – the South Island’s most jaw-dropping natural attraction, which English novelist Rudyard Kipling once described as the “eighth wonder of the world”.

Want to do more? Extend your stay and tackle the Milford Track, or set up a tent at Upper Eglinton Campsite and rediscover your zen overlooking the magnificent mountain valley views. It’s a sight you’ll never forget.

Discover the new Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV.