All you need to know about this high-end, high-octane hub.
Set against a backdrop of cinematic scenery, New Zealand’s South island beckons those in search of adventure. In the shadow of the snow-capped Remarkables, adrenaline capital Queenstown may be better known for backpackers and bungees, but this alpine oasis has an unexpectedly upmarket edge. Indulge your every whim with lovely lakefront villas, superior chalets, an endless wonderland of wilderness and a wealth of epicurean experiences to cater to the most discerning of tastes. Here’s our pick of the most spoiling spots to get you started...
STAY
Indulge in some serious rest and relaxation with these uber-luxe lakeside abodes...
Jack's Point Lake House
The ultimate in lakefront living, this high-end hideaway is located on Jack's Point championship golf course. An expansive outdoor space with hot tub and open wood fire is perfect for après ski entertaining, just moments from the Remarkables ski field.
50 Aspen Grove
Epitomise alpine sophistication in this architecturally award-winning home, just a 7-minute drive from central Queenstown. Overlook the lake from the 20-metre heated lap pool, or cuddle up indoors by the open wood fire, extensive glass work drinking in sweeping snow-capped vistas.
Lordens Penthouse
Lord it over your neighbours in this 3-bed penthouse, a short walk from the shores of Lake Wakatipu boasting a private hot tub and postcard-worthy views.
EAT
A gourmand’s dream getaway, the shores of Lake Wakatipu are dotted with dining options championing the fresh, local produce New Zealand is famed for. Cosy up with cool cocktails in front of a roaring fire at Bunker - a well-kept local secret. For a stellar selection of the region’s finest food and wine, sample their ‘Taste of the South’ menu, or stay until the wee hours and dance it off with Queenstown’s best house DJs. If you’re on the hunt for sheer sophistication, Botswana Butchery serves up butter-soft lamb shoulder in plush, stylish surrounds. For a long lunch, head to Amisfield Winery - be sure to blindly put your faith in the ‘trust the chef’ option and feast on seasonal specialities like Fiordland venison perfectly paired with their pinot noir and aromatic whites.
PLAY
At heart, a quintessential ski town, visit in the winter to enjoy wide powdery pistes snaking through Queenstown's majestic mountains. Whatever season you choose, you’ll find these Hollywood-worthy landscapes are best enjoyed from above. Charter a chopper for a round of mountaintop golf, or dine above the clouds with a heli-picnic for two prepared by your personal chef - all the more delicious with the peaks of the Remarkables shining in the distance. Charter a plane south to Milford Sound to experience the prehistoric beauty of Fiordland National Park. Sinking low, it's impossible not to be impressed by the sheer scale of these vast mountains, tumbling into impossibly deep river gorges - flanked by waterfalls raging in a rainbow mist.
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