WHERE TO STAY IN QUEENSTOWN
I feel like there’s two (and a half) types of people in the world; 1. where you stay matters, it’s your home away from home, splash out and pay for a view or.. 2. It’s somewhere to just to sleep, too busy doing “all of the things” to worry. Or it’s those in between with a bit from each side.
In Queenstown, there are so many options to choose from it can be a bit daunting, but don’t worry, here is my list on where to stay with different types of accommodation, all budgets and what makes them special to be included here.
A locally owned and operated backpackers that is more than meets the eye. Aspen Lodge has more room types than your average place. From multiple sized dorm rooms through to large double and twin ensuite rooms, there’s an option for everyone.
The lodge also has a BBQ area, a shared lounge with log fire, free off street parking (winning!) and ski storage and drying room available in winter. Almost forgot, it’s location is key, tucked away in the quiet end of the town centre it’s only an eight minute walk to the lake. I highly recommend this great value gem that’s perfect for your adventure trip to Queenstown. For more information and direct bookings check out their website.
What’s not to love. The location is right in the heart of the town overlooking Lake Wakatipu, literally a stone’s throw (across the road) to some of the best bars and restaurants, and a two minute walk the ‘other side of the town centre’.
With rooms from $170/night, an in house restaurant that does a wicked breakfast and free WIFI, the Crown plaza ticks all my boxes in the mid range category. For a best price guarantee and more info visit their website.
When views are everything and you want to bling it up like a jet setter, then The Rees Hotel is for you. Nestled against the hillside alongside the Frankton Arm of Lake Wakatipu with only the popular Frankton Walking track wedged in between,
The Rees has a stellar sustainability commitment that is just more than hotel operations, their nature conservation efforts and community support is is a real asset to the town.
My favourite is their inhouse True South restaurant, where they’ve taken locally sourced to a a new level, south of Christchurch will only do. An amazing seasonal menu with mouthwatering wine list too.
Go have a look for yourself on their website.
An overachiever here, but what an amazing one. Set on 650 acres, this is bigger than a small town! It’s facilities are world class from their three nine hole course, the spa, restaurants…. I could go on and on and on… It’s like you’re in another world, it’s come along way from a farm back in the day, to a true resort, that is on the edge of Arrowtown and only 20 minutes from Queenstown.
What set out to be a golfers paradise has turned into so much more, with residences and a fitness centre, you can even get married there. For an experience you’ll drool over head over to their website for more info.