Queenstown Hotels

Queenstown Hotels

Dwarfed by the unrelenting natural splendor of New Zealand’s South Island, Queenstown fringes an inlet on the thunderbolt-shaped Lake Wakatipu. Holding the prestigious title of the ‘Adventure Capital of the World’, it’s no surprise that the town plays basecamp to hordes of adventurers all year round. From mountain biking and skiing, to climbing and bungee jumping – here you can really add a few ticks to your bucket list. Post adventure, spirited Queenstown offers everything you need to unwind, party or plan your next thrill.

Things to see

A picturesque pebbled stretch right by the town center, Queenstown Beach sits before the teal waters of Lake Wakatipu. Perfect for swimming and sunbathing, the beach lures in visitors and locals alike with its scenic grandeur. To get a better look, take a cruise on the iconic TSS Earnslaw Steamship. Built in 1912, the vintage vessel departs south across the lake, gifting passengers breathtaking views of the aptly named Remarkables mountain range. Whilst onboard you can visit the ship’s mini-museum, see the engine room, and enjoy refreshments to the sound of tinkering ivories. Set back from the bustle of town, the Kiwi and Birdlife Park provides a sanctuary for over 20 species of native New Zealand wildlife. Spread across five acres, the park’s residents range from colorful parrots to adorable kiwis. Reclining on a peninsula across the bay, the Queenstown Gardens offer another tranquil escape. Adorned with lush lawns and exotic floral finery, the grounds also provide recreational facilities.

Hotels in Queenstown

From luxury laden spa resorts and waterfront lodges, to cozy bed and breakfasts and rental home from homes, the hotels in Queenstown cater to every type of stay. Luxury exists in contemporary five star style, where sumptuously appointed suites come complete with awe inspiring balcony vistas. The mid-range choices range from full-service sleepovers to rental apartments, with the latter being a particularly popular option. Most come in sleek modern style, featuring toasty fireplaces and a trove of mod-cons. Along with comfort and convenience, the larger hotels in Queenstown offer plenty of amenities. Among them you can expect swimming pools, health clubs, fitness facilities, and onsite restaurants.

Where to stay

If you’re intent on squeezing the most out of your stay, a hotel in Queenstown’s vibrant epicenter puts you right in amongst the buzz. Home to an eclectic mix of restaurants, shops and a buzzing nightlife, there’s something to appeal to every taste. If you want a quieter stay however, look to the suburbs either side of the town where you’ll find a huge choice of lakeside accommodation. Just 20 minutes away, the historic gold rush village of Arrowtown provides another quiet base. Quaint and uncrowded, it’s also within good reach of the ski fields. Wherever you stay, if you’re here for activities and adventures, many operators provide a door to door service for your convenience.

How to get to Queenstown

Queenstown Airport is the town’s nearest gateway, situated a convenient 4.5 miles from the town’s center. As well as serving all major New Zealand airports, there are a number of services to and from Sydney, with direct flights to Brisbane and Melbourne during the ski season. If you’re coming from further afield it might prove easier to land at a larger airport, such as Auckland or Christchurch International, before making a connecting flight. During your approach into Queenstown Airport, be sure to look out your window – you’ll see New Zealand’s Southern Alps in all their snowcapped splendor.