For us Southern Hemisphere dwelling, snow obsessed folk, when we aren’t spending our Summer hitting the slopes in the USA, Japan, Europe or Canada, we are dreaming about our very own winter and plotting ideas of how to score the best snow (or make the most of what we get).
Let’s be honest, it can be fickle, but when you choose the right destination for your annual snow pilgrimage, you can certainly make the most of it. Hence why Queenstown is one of my favourite Southern Hemisphere ski destinations.
It’s not only home to picturesque lakes and adrenalin junkies, but they have a host of stunning snow capped mountain ranges to ski and board, beautiful hotels & lodges to recoup and recover after a day on the mountain and world class food & wine experiences that will cater to all of your Après desires.
So, where are the best spots to stay when visiting New Zealand’s adventure playground?
Think toasty lodges, luxury apartments and quirky hotels… all perfect for couples, families or a group of friends, here are some of my favourite Queenstown accommodation options, that will help to elevate your experience from cold, damp and basic, to cosy, indulgent and LUXE!
QT QUEENSTOWN
If you’re looking for something that is hip, quirky and effortlessly cool (ok, maybe a little effort is required), then look no further than QT Queenstown. Known for it’s endlessly cool and chill vibes, QT offers playful details and a bold design, with uninterrupted views of Lake Wakatipu.
With a vibrant cocktail bar, heated outdoor plunge pool & breakfast included, QT truly is the pinnacle of Queenstown cool.
Perfect for: Couples, Small Groups & the Hip or Hip at heart.
THE REES
Located on the shores of beautiful Lake Wakatipu, The Rees Hotel, Luxury Apartments & Residences offer guests the absolute best of both worlds, with the choice of either the luxury 5 star hotel experience, or the option of more private and spacious apartment of residences.
With apartments and residences consisting of 3 bedrooms, private terraces, spa pools and stunning mountain views, The Rees is ideal for families and small groups.
With resort features also at your finger tips including on-site dining, wine cellar, art gallery and library, shuttle, ski rental and lockers, in-room spa services and more, there is certainly something for everyone here to help make your Ski holiday that little bit better.
Perfect for: Families, Small Groups and Multi-Generational groups.
EICHARDT’S PRIVATE HOTEL
If you’re looking for historic luxury it’s hard to go past Eichardt’s Private Hotel, which is certainly a sumptuous retreat for the most discerning of travellers. Set once again in a prime lakefront location, with luxurious suites and 4 apartments (all right in the heart of town), Eichardt’s is the epitope of boutique luxe, with chic interiors and perfect ski lodge vibes.
Think plush bedding, thick throws, marble bathrooms, signature dining and a roaring fireplace that sits awaiting your arrival…. It sounds like absolute bliss to me and the perfect home away from home to settle in after a day on the mountain, or exploring Queenstown’s historical sites and shops.
Eichardt’s also offers an extensive range of signature experiences, so if you’re looking to rest your legs and enjoy an off-snow experience, then they have you covered. Experience the breathtaking wilderness of the Southern Alps by private helicopter charter, dining in the remote reaches of a picturesque glacial valley, snowshoe across some of New Zealand’s most pristine natural landscapes or Dog Sled along towering mountain passes…. The opportunities are endless!
Perfect for: Glam group getaways, families and couples.
ULTRA LUXE (and a little bit Extra!)
Still looking for something a little bit spesh? (Or have a special occasion to celebrate?) Then you can’t go past the epic Matakauri Lodge. Spectacularly located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Matakauri Lodge offers luxury lodge accommodation and looks out to a mesmerizing panorama of the big three; The Remarkables, Cecila and Walter Peak.
Think lake front views, a luxury day spa and signature experiences (like mountain top picnics by Helicopter!), THIS is pretty much the epitome in Queenstown Luxury, and ideal for a honeymoon, anniversary or the perfect way to go that little bit extra at the end of your Queenstown Ski Holiday.
Perfect for: Couples & Honeymooners
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All in all, these are just a handful of the lodge and hotel options that Queenstown have to offer, so whether you’re a couple, a family with kids in toe, or you’re hoping to grab some of your besties to explore NZ in style, there is certainly something for everyone.
From hotels to lift passes and rentals, to car / motorhome rental and signature sightseeing experiences, with my New Zealand travel partners ‘A Touch of Spice’, we will work with you to curate the perfect New Zealand Ski (or non-ski) experience. So do reach out to me and allow me to help you design the holiday of your dreams.
Kate xx
[All photos via the names hotel websites, and all credit goes to them and their photographers accordingly]
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