6 things to do in Queenstown

It’s that time of year when the days are short, and the nights are cold As the days get shorter and the nights are seriously fresh, it’s somewhat difficult to maintain positivity in this city of ours. So instead of locking in to Gossip Girl for the eighth winter in a row, why not go somewhere that does winter better than us? What better way to spend winter than escaping gloomy Auckland and trading it in for a stay in magical Queenstown?

Queenstown has long been a favourite holiday destination. Its picturesque rolling hills and snow-covered mountains make it like something out of our favourite fairy-tale. As your plane soars above this gem of a town you are able to escape from all your worries and woes here in Auckland.  There’s so much to see in do in this idyllic town you’ll be spoiled for choice, but here are our top six picks.

Skiing the Southern Alps

Skiing is a must for every winter holiday and Queenstown has 3 main ski resorts: The Remarkables, Cardrona and Coronet Peak.

           

Coronet Peak skiing

 A ride around Lake Wakatipu on TSS Earnslaw

History fanatics will love this, TSS Earnslaw is an old Edwardian steamship cruiser built in 1912. This old gem will take you on a cruise around the beautiful Lake Wakatipu, offering stunning views and delectable treats on-board. Take an hour and a half out of your day to sit back and relax on this historic ship, it’s not every day you get to feel like you’re living in the 1910’s.

            

TSS Earnslaw docked

Gibbston Valley Vineyards

New Zealand is home to many exceptional vineyards, and no matter where you are in the country – you’re never far from one. But nothing beats wine tasting in the epic wine region of Central Otago. Gibbston Valley is also known as the Valley of Wines, so safe to say you’ll be in good hands here.  There’s nothing quite like a Central Otago Pinot Noir!

            

Vineyard in Queenstown

 Below Zero Ice Bar

The snow hotel in Finland is one of the world’s greatest hotel experiences, when in Queenstown you can have the same experience but in the form of Below Zero Ice Bar. Conveniently located in the center of the city, this is a great place to enjoy a few bevy’s after a hard day up the mountain. No need to go all the way to Europe! Everything from the walls, seats and glasses are cleverly sculpted out of ice by two American sculptors.

             

Below Zero Ice Bar

 Fergburgers!

There is always a long line out the door of Queenstown burger institution Ferburger. These delicious burgers are sought-after by tourists and residents alike because of their fresh and homely taste. We recommend ordering over the phone, because you can wait here for hours amongst eager burger patrons!

              

Fergburger restaurant Queenstown

 Onsen Hot Pools

Now that swimming in the ocean has about the same appeal as slamming your head in a car door, you’ll need to find an alternative and Onsen Hot Pools is just the place! A luxury boutique day spa set in a natural location that’s easy on the eyes. The pool rooms overlook a beautiful mountain range in Coronet Peak and are the perfect getaway for you and your partner.

               

Onsen hot pool room overlooking mountains

All images from Google Images