Queenstown, surrounded by majestic mountains and set on the shores of crystal-clear water of Lake Wakatipu is a stunning place to visit. The natural beauty and the unique energy of the region create the perfect backdrop for a holiday full of adventure, discovery and rejuvenation. No matter what time of year you decide to take your holiday Queenstown always has something to offer. I would recommend taking a ride on the Skyline Gondola to Bob’s peaks while enjoying the panoramic scenery as you ascend. Para glide back down or use the mountain bike trail if you feel brave enough. From canyoning, to bowling, to chilling out with new friends the town and surrounding area has fun activities for all weather conditions. Head to Fiordland and take a cruise of Milford Sound, in rainy days the waterfalls get even more impressive. If you’re lucky the sun might come out and give you the perfect selfie backdrop. Hire a bike, there are plenty of bike hire options around town from e-bikes to high spec downhill mountain bikes useful for trying out in the Bob Lomond Forest. After all that exertion why not enjoy a leisurely cruise on the lake aboard the steamship TSS Earnslaw, a trip we enjoyed very much especially with a chilled glass of local wine in hand. Accommodation is plentiful, motels, backpacking hostels and hotels but make sure you book early, Queenstown is a very popular tourist destination.
There are plenty of places to eat in Queenstown from the cafes along the lakefront to the cheaper bars in town or try one of the specialist dining places. There are plenty of places to choose from including, Chinese, Thai, Seafood plus traditional fare and KFC.
The walk to the Skyline Gondola is up quite a short steep hill but the climb is certainly well worth the effort. Once aboard your cabin you will be transported up the mountainside slowly allowing you plenty of time to take those special photographs of the stunning panoramic views including a selfie or two.
There is a gift shop and two restaurants at the top where you can buy some souvenirs or eat. If you want to eat with a view of Queenstown and the lake you will need to reserve beforehand.
Queenstown is a small compact town so there is no need to hire a car unless you want to visit other areas. Everything within the town is within walking distance.
I have a holiday planned to New Zealand next year for 3 weeks feb/march. I am slowly starting to research with a plan to have a loose itinerary before we go. We wish to make the most of our trip to the other side of the world.
We plan to start in the North Island and head to the south Island around a week later.
Look forward to reading more of your recommendations.
Thank you for sharing your great photos. It was interesting for me to read about New Zealand as it is very far from where I live. I wish I could visit it some day.
Why don’t you share your experience from Queenstown? Which is your favourite place to eat? This way your post can be appreciated even more by other Local Guides, and can drive more interaction.
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Both islands in New Zealand are worth touring for different reasons. The Bay of Islands north of Auckland is a spectacular place to visit, where you can swim, snorkel or even watch the dolphins. I will be doing a post on this and other areas of New Zealand soon. If you are going to travel during New Zealand’s summer months (December to March) then I would advise that you would need to book your accommodation before traveling as it get quite busy during these months.
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