Borland Road runs through stunning powerline country in Fiordland's Southland backcountry, climbing toward the South Arm Lake campsite. It's a scenic, well-rated gravel route, mostly easy going, that rewards you with epic views as you reach the top around the Grebe Valley.

Along the way you'll pass the Borland bivi, a handy spot for a cuppa and a breather. The final section descends toward the lake and campsite, where a washed-out bridge means you'll ford a stream roughly 800m short of the lake. There are also a few side tracks worth poking down if you've time to explore.

This is rugged, remote country, so come prepared and check access before you head in, as signage at the road start can be lacking. Bring plenty of bug spray, the sandflies out here are brutal. Note the official seasonal closure: the road shuts on 1 June and reopens on 25 October. A genuinely memorable drive with stunning scenery throughout, well worth the trip even if you only make it to the Grebe Valley lookout.