Publication | Stuff > Travel
Author | Michale Lamb
Somehow I have attained (ahem) middle age without ever skiing, or snowboarding. Or barely ever being in actual snow. I’ve never properly been to Queenstown, other than en route to other places, let alone in winter.
In other words, I’m a Queenstown virgin. Snow celibate. An après-ski amateur. I mean, I’ve heard of Coronet Peak, but I have no idea what goes on there. Cardrona? Isn’t that a pub?
So this is for people like me: how to ‘do’ Queenstown if you have no idea what you’re doing.
Where to Stay
There are offerings to suit different budgets, but I reckon Queenstown in winter is one destination where you want to go all in, because when it’s bone-chilling outside, it makes such a difference to be in premium accommodation. So raid the piggy bank or emergency fund and book somewhere luxe, warm and indulgent. Here’s a couple we tried:
The Cottages at Lake Hayes were a revelation. Opened in 2020, these are luxe cottages with lovely lake views. We stayed in Luna, which sleeps four adults and has the added bonus of a toasty hot spa pool to soothe away the post-activity aches. It also had a wood burner to loll in front of with a bottle of the local pinot noir. The owners are super community-minded, supporting local sustainability projects and local artists, with each cottage featuring curated artworks. From $545 per night.
Hulbert House is a gem of a hotel set in a grand old Victorian villa, just a few metres up from town with dreamy views back over the lake. This is ultra boutique, with only six rooms and low-key but wonderfully on-point staff. And the rooms and hallways tell the intriguing story of Queenstown through a wonderful collection of heritage photographs. From $880 per night.
