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A playground for adrenaline-junkies, oenophiles, and nature-seekers
Staggering beauty and heart-pumping thrills await in the resort town of Queenstown, which is also known for its Hobbits—much of the Lord of the Rings trilogy was filmed in the area. Outdoor enthusiasts come here for the kayaking, bungee jumping, jetboating, white-water rafting, hiking, and skiing. More mild-mannered adventurers can take a quiet cruise through nearby Milford Sound, part of the Fiordland National Park World Heritage area, or sample South Island pinot noir from one of the region's 75 wineries.
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The most jaw-dropping views in Queenstown
No matter how long I spend in Queenstown, I’m still astounded by the stunning scenery every time I venture outside. I’m in awe at the sheer size of the mountains on New Zealand’s South Island, especially when their snowy peaks are mirrored in the lakes as I drive past. Here are some of my favorite views that don’t require a long hike through the wilderness.
Roxanne de Bruyn, Queenstown, New Zealand
- Skyline Queenstown13,151Heading up Bob’s Peak on the Queenstown Gondola is one of the most popular activities in Queenstown—and for good reason. First of all, the lower station is a five-minute walk from downtown, so you can soar to the top with barely any effort at all. (For more of a challenge, hike up along the Tiki Trail.) At the top, try one of the many activities—parasailing, ziplining, or bungee jumping—or ride down on the luge track.
- Moke Lake383Tucked between two mountains, horseshoe-shaped Moke Lake is easily my favorite spot in Queenstown. If you feel like staying put, this is the perfect place for a peaceful picnic. When you want to keep moving, set off on the fairly easy two-hour hike around the lake. On days when the winds are calm, keep an eye out for the reflection of the Southern Alps. From Queenstown, it’s a half-hour drive to the lake.
- Queenstown Hill1,520It takes a while to conquer Queenstown Hill—expect the roundtrip journey to take a minimum of two or three hours—but the route through a pine forest makes the time go quickly. If you find yourself running out of steam, reaching the intriguing Basket of Dreams sculpture is a sign that you’re almost at the top. Keep going for panoramic views over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the mountains in the distance.
- Nest Kitchen + Bar571With sweeping views across Lake Wakatipu, Nest Kitchen+Bar is a favorite dinner destination in Queensland. In a modern building with towering windows, the dining room is open and airy. Linger over drinks on the deck while enjoying the sunset, then venture inside for a beautifully presented meal focusing on local ingredients like Bluff oysters and Southland lamb. The restaurant is in Kamana Lakehouse, a five-minute drive from the center of Queenstown.
- Onsen Hot Pools Retreat & Day Spa2,251For the most relaxing experience imaginable, soak in a cedar-lined tub while you gaze out over the jet boats navigating the canyon in Shotover River. The views are incredible all year round, but autumn is particularly lovely. You’ll see some colorful foliage late into the season and a light dusting of snow on the mountain peaks. Better yet, come in the evening so that you can marvel at how bright the stars appear.
- Lake Alta Track26A surprisingly short hike takes you to Lake Alta, a picture-perfect alpine lake hidden in the mountain range called the Remarkables. There’s a great view of Mount Aspiring, one of New Zealand's highest peaks, and the Southern Alps. If you’re brave, you can take a dip in the lake in summer. (Locals says the icy water is “refreshing.”) You can access the trail from the parking lot at the Remarkables Ski Lodge.
- 35-Minute Alpine Scenic Flight from Queenstown46Queenstown is absolutely magnificent from the air. Take a 30-minute helicopter ride to see the sheer drop of Skippers Canyon, the braided streams of Shotover Delta, and the tiny glacial lakes hidden in the mountains. You can even enjoy a snow landing on the Remarkables. If it’s in your budget, a longer trip to Milford Sound is even more memorable.