5 Queenstown must-dos
You know a destination is for you when you’re head over heels before you even set foot in the country. For Queenstown and I, it was love at first sight as our Virgin Australia flight glided over the fluffy clouds and white capped mountain ranges, and descended into the awesomeness that is this New Zealand hot spot.
Here are five top tips for making the most of a Queenstown getaway:
First things first, you need an awesome place to stay and I give a big fat tick of approval to the Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments (named after the founder of Queenstown, pioneer settler William Gilbert Rees). Located just out of town, you’re close enough to take advantage of their quick free shuttle bus service but far enough away not to be bothered by the late night Queenstown party scene when you’re trying to get some zzzz’s.
Set on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, you’ll spoilt with glorious views from your balcony of not only the lake but The Remarkable mountain ranges. Apart from the killer outlook, the rooms are well equipped with comfy beds, a spacious bathroom complete with separate shower and bath (pretty rare these days), an iPad filled with info on the hotel and area, cozy lounge area and importantly in Queenstown, it’s well heated!
My love for this hotel goes even deeper when we head to their Bordeau Lounge Bar for a pre-dinner beverage or two at sunset and settle in to enjoy this view.
There’s also an onsite restaurant, True South Dining, that showcases local produce so you don’t even need to leave the hotel to sample the best of Queenstown. I dare say you’ll be keen to explore though and if you’re the active type, hire a bike from reception and hit the trails.
If you’re not convinced yet, I give bonus points for the ridiculously lovely and helpful staff. Queenstown might just be the friendliest place on earth but the Rees team go above and beyond.
2.Get your active on
The fresh air of Queenstown is an outdoor lover’s dream. Take a few deep breaths and feel the relaxation vibes kick in!
If you’re a snow bunny, you’ll be in heaven in Queenstown with four ski regions to choose from, with the closest just 20 minutes from the town centre.
Not into skiing or snowboarding? Take advantage of the six golf courses within 25 minutes of town. Your toughest challenge? Not letting the stunning views distract you from your game!
If running, leisurely strolls or bike rides are more your style, you’ll be looked after too with well-marked trails to get you back to nature.
3. Get your food on
Passionate food lovers are spoilt for choice in Queenstown with everything from world-renowned takeaway joints (I’m looking at your Fergburger) to high end dining. Rata Dining is one hot spot that should be firmly on your hit list.
Owned and operated by internationally recognized Michelin starred chef Josh Emett, and local restauranteur Fleur Caulton, it encompasses the so-hot-right-now style of dining: classy but not overdone décor, polished but never stuffy staff, relaxed but still special-occasion worthy vibe and above all, exceptional food.
Get yourself to Vudu Café for a recovery breakfast the next day and nab yourself a window spot in the cozy Queenstown favourite. Brekky regulars done well like French toast, eggs benedict and organic oat, quinoa and coconut porridge won’t disappoint.
And when you’re gearing up again for dinner, be sure to book a table at Botswana Butchery, one of the most stylish restaurants in town. Be sure to order the renowned wild deer tartare. It’s not all about the food either. The menu can be matched to local Central Otago and international wines from the restaurant’s impressive private 1800 bottle cellar.
4. Get your wine on
Known, in particular, for its Pinot Noir, Queenstown and the nearby Gibbston valley are home to over 75 wineries producing a wide range of wine varieties.
Combine the best of both world and be sure to combine a wine tasting at the beautiful and award winning Amisfield Winery with a leisurely long lunch. If you’re lucky enough to score good weather, you’ll be soaking up the fresh country air with a view like this.
There’s a good chance though the seriously good menu will capture all of your attention though!
A little further out, Gibbston Valley Wines is also well worth a visit. Their Purely Pinot tasting hits the spot perfectly with a cheese plate. Naturally.
5. Get your adventure on
Dubbed the adrenalin-junkie capital of the world, there’s no shortage of activities to get your heart pumping in Queenstown.
From jet boat adventures to bungee jumps and zip-lining to sky-diving you can firmly earn yourself an adventure to brag about at the pub later.
For me, a helicopter ride landing on a glacier was a pretty memorable way to spend a day!
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