The zen lover's guide to Queenstown
It’s the town beloved by ski bunnies and adventure addicts, but talk to anyone who’s walked the cobbled streets of Queenstown, and you’ll hear people sing the praises of one of the prettiest places they’re ever been to.
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Surrounded by the snow-capped mountains of the Remarkables, the lush vineyards of Central Otago and with Lake Wakatipu at its heart, Queenstown might be a ski town – but there’s plenty for those who never made it past the snow plough stage.
Whether you’re a wine buff or part of the serenity-seeking spa set, here’s how to spend a day relaxing in this Kiwi hotspot.
8am Stay close to the action by making the Sofitel your base.
Nestled right in the heart of town, the French-inspired Sofitel is the perfect combination of luxury and location, so leave your bags at the front desk while you make the most of the day.
8:30am Fuel yourself for the big day ahead with the delicious fare at Vudu Café and Larder.
Industrial chic décor meets traditional breakfast dishes with a difference, think grilled halloumi and poached eggs getting an Asian twist with smashed pea and edamame and seaweed salt. We dare you to try and leave without grabbing something from their incredible cabinet groaning with sweet treats and slices.
10am Take in the views with a gondola ride to the top of Bob’s Peak courtesy of the Skyline Queenstown.
A quick five minute walk out of town, the Skyline Queenstown gondola takes you 450 metres into the air for epic views of Coronet Peak, the Remarkables and Queenstown. Feeling the need to raise your heart rate a little? The all-ages luge at the top will bring out the best – and worst – in you as you careen around corners and through tunnels on a 800 metre track.
12pm It’s not a trip to Queenstown without a finger-licking good feed from iconic fave, Fergburger.
There’s your usual suspects of beef and chicken, along with the more exotic Chief Wiggum burger of slow roasted pork belly, hash brown and apricot seeded mustard. Don’t be deterred by the huge lines at peak times – you can call ahead with your order and bypass the crowds with a speedy pickup. Take your goodies down to Lake Wakatipu for a cheap feed with a million dollar view.
1.30 Bliss out at the Onsen Hot Pools.
Book in advance for your own private cedar hot tub that looks over Shotover Canyon and is heated up to 39.8 degrees. Sit back, take in the gorgeous view and sip on a glass of local Gibbston Valley wines to achieve ultimate zen.
3pm Stop and smell the botanicals with a leisurely stroll in Queenstown Gardens.
Head back into town via the lakeside track in the botanical gardens. For those that need a power nap back at the hotel, the famous Sofitel MyBed is the perfect place to rest your head for a few minutes, or make use of the rain shower or bath complete with TV. If you're keen to make the most of the local wines, swing by the 1789 Wine & Jazz Lounge in the hotel lobby, which has 50 wines by the glass on offer.
5pm Indulge in a 'Trust the Chef menu at Amisfield
Prince William and Kate Middleton tried their wines when they visited New Zealand in 2014, and the degustation at Amisfield is definitely a meal fit for royalty.
Lake Hayes forms the breathtaking backdrop to the dining room, and if the seven-course New Zealand produce focused courses aren’t enough of an indulgence, put yourself in the hands of the expert sommelier with a matching wine flight.
8pm Check out Queenstown's famed nightlfe
If you still have some stamina left after your day’s adventures, head back into town to check out Queenstown’s hotspots. Try the Below Zero Ice Bar, which boasts a bar and furniture made of ice, or The Winery where you can order one of the 80 Kiwi drops on offer with a simple push of a button.
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