Queenstown
Queenstown in New Zealand's South Island is ridiculously beautiful! The people, the views, the environment; everything about Queenstown is amazing.
We drove into Queenstown and caught our first glimpse of Lake Wakatipu, in its full glory, reflecting the beautiful mountainscape and making the views twice as nice (if that is even possible). It's like being in a picture book and I felt the need to pinch myself to see if this amazing place could be Sightseeing Heaven.
Queenstown is NZ’s favorite winter playground with several world-class ski fields near (including Cardrona, Coronet Peak, Treble Cone, and the Remarkables). Although it wasn't quite winter when we were there in April, it was still exciting to drive up the Remarkables and Coronet Peak just to experience the stunning views over the whole of Queenstown.
Being the adventure capital of the world meant that we had a huge selection of activities to choose from to get our adrenalin racing and blood flowing. Bungee jumping, sky diving, white water rafting, shot over jet boating, zipline riding and even the famous luge at the top of the peak were a few of our choices. Ok, we didn't do any of these, but we could have, and we did enjoy watching other more adventurous travelers partake in these activities!
Food, good food and more great food can be found in every corner of Queenstown.
Our favorite breakfast was had at the Sherwood Hotel, set on three acres of alpine hillside overlooking Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables range. Specializing in fresh, seasonal, soul food harvested from their own kitchen gardens, orchards and surrounding farms.
Another great find was the food truck located right in town opposite the Novotel called Eric's Fish & Chips. A scrumptious traditional kiwi meal of paper wrapped fish and chips can be had here or taken to the shores of Lake Wakatipu fifty yards away. They even have deep fried kiwi fruit for $3.50.
Fergburger is a must when visiting Queenstown. With all day two hour long queues that go around the corner, we found it easier and quicker to order online first and have it ready when you arrive. Relishing burgers and tasty fries with a tempting bakery joined on next door.
A favorite day had was the stunningly beautiful drive around the edge of Lake Wakatipu to Glenorchy. This is one of the best, if not the best, scenic drives in the South Island. Forty minutes of "oh gosh" moments. The famous carrot cake at the Trading Post Glenorchy was just the icing on the cake of an unbelievable experience.
Arrowtown, both charming and quirky, is only about twenty minutes from the heart of Queenstown. The town was established in 1862, during the height of the Otago gold rush. With history, art, boutique shopping and world class cafes and restaurants, it was worth the scenic drive.
The airport is literally in town and it was a sad day when I had to leave. Taking off between the mountains and flying directly over this amazing place just reminded me of what I was leaving.
Queenstown, I will be back.