Discover the Best Luxury Experiences in Queenstown

Queenstown, nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, adventure sports, and vibrant culture. But beyond its thrill-seeking reputation, Queenstown is also a sanctuary for luxury seekers, offering an array of high-end experiences that cater to discerning travelers. From opulent accommodations to gourmet dining and exclusive activities, Queenstown’s luxury scene is as diverse as it is enticing.

The Allure of Queenstown

Queenstown’s natural beauty is one of its most compelling features. Surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range and the shimmering waters of Lake Wakatipu, the town provides a stunning backdrop for luxury travelers. The contrast between rugged landscapes and the refined elegance of luxury experiences creates a unique allure that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Luxury Accommodations

When it comes to luxury accommodations, Queenstown does not disappoint. The town is home to some of New Zealand's most prestigious hotels and resorts, offering a perfect blend of comfort, style, and personalized service.

Eichardt’s Private Hotel

Eichardt’s Private Hotel, located in the heart of Queenstown, is a heritage hotel that has set the standard for luxury in the area. With its sumptuously appointed suites, world-class service, and stunning views of Lake Wakatipu, Eichardt’s is a favorite among those looking for an intimate and exclusive experience. The hotel also features the Penthouse, a 1,000-square-foot suite with a private rooftop terrace, a hot tub, and a personal chef, offering the ultimate in luxury living.

Matakauri Lodge

Situated just a short drive from Queenstown, Matakauri Lodge is another standout in the region’s luxury accommodation offerings. This boutique lodge boasts a prime location on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The suites and villas are designed with contemporary elegance in mind, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, private balconies, and luxurious amenities. Guests can also enjoy a range of wellness experiences at the lodge’s spa, which offers treatments using natural, locally-sourced ingredients.

The Rees Hotel & Luxury Apartments

The Rees Hotel & Luxury Apartments offers a combination of traditional hotel rooms and spacious apartments, perfect for those seeking both luxury and flexibility. With sweeping views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables, The Rees provides a tranquil retreat with a strong emphasis on privacy and relaxation. The hotel’s dining options, including the award-winning True South Dining Room, emphasize local produce and fine wines, ensuring a memorable culinary experience.

Gourmet Dining in Queenstown

Queenstown's culinary scene is a key component of its luxury appeal. The town offers a diverse range of dining options that showcase both local and international flavors, often set against the backdrop of its stunning landscapes.

Rātā

Rātā, a restaurant co-owned by renowned chef Josh Emett, is a must-visit for food lovers in Queenstown. The restaurant offers a modern take on New Zealand cuisine, using seasonal ingredients to create dishes that are both innovative and delicious. The tasting menu is a popular choice for those looking to experience the full range of what Rātā has to offer, featuring a selection of carefully curated dishes paired with local wines.

Amisfield Bistro & Cellar Door

Amisfield Bistro & Cellar Door, located just outside Queenstown, is known for its farm-to-table philosophy and degustation menu. Set in a stunning stone building overlooking vineyards, the bistro offers a relaxed yet sophisticated dining experience. The chefs at Amisfield are committed to using the freshest local ingredients, which are prepared with creativity and flair. The restaurant’s wine selection is also impressive, featuring many vintages from Amisfield’s own vineyard as well as other renowned wineries from around New Zealand.

Botswana Butchery

For a more traditional dining experience, Botswana Butchery offers a luxurious take on the classic steakhouse. Located in a historic cottage by the lake, the restaurant is famous for its succulent cuts of meat, fresh seafood, and extensive wine list. The plush interiors, featuring velvet booths and crystal chandeliers, add to the restaurant’s opulent atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.

Exclusive Activities and Experiences

Beyond accommodations and dining, Queenstown offers a plethora of exclusive activities and experiences that cater to luxury travelers. Whether it’s exploring the great outdoors in style or indulging in a private wine tasting, there’s something for everyone.

Helicopter Tours

One of the most exhilarating ways to experience Queenstown’s breathtaking scenery is by taking a helicopter tour. Several companies offer private tours that can be customized to include stops at remote alpine locations, pristine glaciers, or even a secluded mountain-top picnic. For an unforgettable experience, consider a heli-skiing adventure in the Remarkables or a scenic flight over Milford Sound, which is often referred to as the “eighth wonder of the world.”

Private Wine Tours

Central Otago, the region surrounding Queenstown, is renowned for its world-class wineries and stunning vineyards. A private wine tour is an excellent way to explore the area’s boutique wineries and taste some of the finest Pinot Noir in the world. Many companies offer bespoke tours that include transport in luxury vehicles, visits to exclusive vineyards, and intimate tastings with winemakers.

Luxury Cruises on Lake Wakatipu

For a more leisurely experience, consider a luxury cruise on Lake Wakatipu. There are several companies offering private charters on luxury yachts or classic steamships, complete with gourmet meals and the option to stop at scenic spots around the lake. Whether it’s a romantic sunset cruise or a full-day excursion exploring the lake’s hidden coves, a cruise on Lake Wakatipu is a wonderful way to take in Queenstown’s natural beauty.

Golfing at Jack’s Point

Golf enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Queenstown, which is home to some of New Zealand’s most stunning golf courses. Jack’s Point, located just a short drive from the town center, offers an unparalleled golfing experience set against the backdrop of the Remarkables mountain range. The course, designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, provides a challenging yet rewarding round for players of all skill levels. After a day on the greens, golfers can unwind at the clubhouse, which offers fine dining and breathtaking views.

Wellness and Relaxation

For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, Queenstown offers a range of wellness experiences that cater to luxury travelers. From world-class spas to private yoga sessions overlooking the mountains, there are plenty of options to help you unwind.

Onsen Hot Pools

Perched on a cliffside overlooking the Shotover River, Onsen Hot Pools offers a unique and relaxing experience in a stunning natural setting. The private hot pools are perfect for a romantic soak or a peaceful retreat, with options to add extras like champagne and chocolate for an added touch of luxury. The pools are open-air, allowing guests to enjoy the fresh mountain air and starry skies while soaking in the warm, mineral-rich water.

Aro Ha Wellness Retreat

For a more immersive wellness experience, consider a stay at Aro Ha Wellness Retreat, located just outside Queenstown. This eco-luxury retreat offers a range of programs designed to promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, including yoga, meditation, and plant-based nutrition. Guests can also enjoy activities like hiking, kayaking, and cooking classes, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Southern Alps.

Shopping and Local Art

Queenstown’s shopping scene is another highlight for luxury travelers, with a range of boutiques offering everything from high-end fashion to locally-made crafts and art.

Hetties Rock & Crystal Shop

For those interested in gemstones and crystals, Hetties Rock & Crystal Shop is a must-visit. This unique boutique offers a stunning selection of New Zealand greenstone (pounamu), as well as other precious and semi-precious stones. Each piece is carefully curated, making it a perfect place to find a special keepsake or gift.

Nadene Milne Gallery

Art lovers will enjoy a visit to the Nadene Milne Gallery, which showcases a collection of contemporary New Zealand art, including works by some of the country’s most renowned artists. The gallery features a diverse range of pieces, from paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed media, providing a fascinating insight into New Zealand’s vibrant art scene.

Conclusion

Queenstown offers a wealth of luxury experiences for travelers looking to indulge in the finer things in life. Whether you’re staying in a five-star hotel, dining at a gourmet restaurant, or exploring the stunning landscapes in style, Queenstown provides an unforgettable experience that caters to all aspects of luxury travel. From the thrill of a helicopter tour to the serenity of a private hot pool, Queenstown truly has something for everyone. So, if you’re planning your next luxury getaway, consider Queenstown — a destination that combines natural beauty with unparalleled luxury.