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Queenstown

Queenstown Vacations

With the shores of Lake Wakatipu at its feet and the Southern Alps at its back, this picturesque town boasts an abundance of outdoor sports and adventure. 

Region: South Island

Featured Queenstown Hotel

Crowne Plaza Queenstown

Crowne Plaza Queenstown

Our 4-Star classification designates those properties with well-appointed, deluxe accommodations, extensive amenities and comprehensive guest services. Expect attention to detail and a warm and hospitable staff ready to cater to your needs. These superb properties offer a truly refined getaway.
Queenstown, New Zealand

Perched on the shores of Lake Wakatipu the hotel offers snap-worthy views in every direction. Main streets and ski fields are nearby making this a perfect central base.

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Overview

Located at the edge of Lake Wakatipu, with the Southern Alps as a majestic backdrop, Queenstown is an outdoor playground. Hiking, cycling, climbing, mountaineering, sky diving, bungee jumping, river rafting, sailing, jetboating, kayaking, horseback riding, and canyoning can all be embraced nearly year-round, with miles of skiing available in the winter months. Four world-class ski resorts are just a short drive from the town center, with slopes such as Remarkables and Coronet Peak. Old mining towns, vineyards, cuisine, culinary artisans, farmers markets, seasonal events, and festivals can also be explored.

What to Do

Arrowtown: Approximately 20 minutes from Queenstown, this pioneering town was established in 1862 as Arrow River brought gold to miners during the Otago gold rush. Historic houses, shops, and churches still dot the terrain and can be explored by its guests. 

Wanaka: This alpine town is the perfect perch for any skiing and snowboarding activity, with many of the slopes located just a short drive away. Adventure seekers can also engage in opportunities for hiking, canyoning, climbing, mountaineering, or venturing out onto the many local lakes and rivers.

Gibbston: The area of Gibbston is known as the "Valley of the Vines" due its widespread vineyards, dispersed between mountain peaks and the Kawarau River gorge. The primary grape grown in the region is pinot noir. Overall, growing the grapes in this climate and altitude can be extremely challenging but it also makes for delicious wine.