For couples seeking an intimate and luxurious escape, this itinerary perfectly blends the charm of Queenstown with the historic allure of Arrowtown, offering moments of serenity and indulgence. From the moment you arrive at Hulbert House, you’ll be immersed in the tranquil and romantic atmosphere of this beautifully restored villa, setting the stage for a memorable getaway. Designed to focus on slow-paced, meaningful experiences, this itinerary allows couples to deeply connect with each other and the stunning environment around them.
Stroll hand-in-hand along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, explore the quaint charm of Arrowtown, and indulge in memorable dinners at some of the region’s finest restaurants. With breathtaking landscapes, elegant accommodation, and thoughtful details, this romantic escape strikes a beautiful balance between relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments together in Queenstown’s summer glow.
Day 1: Arrival and Evening of Romance
Afternoon
Hulbert House Welcome and Relaxation
As you arrive at Hulbert House, the historic villa’s timeless charm and grandeur will immediately embrace you, setting the tone for a romantic stay. Upon entering your Premium Room, you’ll find a personalised welcome, complete with a pre-arranged chilled bottle of Quartz Reef Methode Traditionelle to toast to the start of your retreat. The room itself exudes elegance with its beautifully restored Victorian features, sumptuous bedding, and sweeping views over Lake Whakatipu.
Once settled in, take a moment to unwind on the private veranda or stroll through the villa’s gardens. Hulbert House is a sanctuary of tranquillity, offering the perfect blend of luxurious comfort and intimate seclusion. The afternoon is yours to simply relax, soak in the views, and enjoy this peaceful haven with your loved one.
Evening
Sunset Stroll and Dinner at The Grille by Eichardt’s
As the late afternoon light bathes Queenstown in golden hues, head down to Lake Whakatipu for a leisurely sunset stroll along the lakeside promenade. The still waters of the lake reflect the surrounding mountains, creating a magical backdrop for your walk. Pause to take in the beauty of the moment, as the setting sun casts a warm glow over the peaks. This serene walk is the perfect prelude to an evening of romance.
For dinner, make your way to The Grille by Eichardt’s, a sophisticated waterfront restaurant renowned for its exceptional cuisine and unparalleled views of the lake. Settle into a cosy corner and enjoy dinner featuring the best of New Zealand’s seasonal ingredients. Share a dish of Southland lamb, or perhaps indulge in Eichardts locally famous seafood chowder sourced from the local waters. The ambience is intimate and the views unforgettable, making it the perfect spot for a romantic first dinner. After dinner, take a slow walk back to Hulbert House under the starlit summer sky.
Wrap yourselves in a single blanket on the veranda, sipping on a nightcap as you enjoy the quiet intimacy of the evening. With the soft summer breeze and the distant glow of Queenstown below, it’s the perfect setting to reflect on the day’s shared moments and look forward to the memories still to be created. This romantic pause, embraced by the warmth and charm of Hulbert House, is the perfect way to close out a beautiful day together.
Day 2: Wine, Nature, and Intimate Dining
Morning: Breakfast at Vudu Café & Larder and Queenstown Gardens Walk
Queenstown Hill Sunrise Walk
Rise early and start your day with a romantic adventure, leaving the comfort of Hulbert House for a sunrise walk up Queenstown Hill. As the town sleeps below, the trail winds through peaceful woodlands, offering increasingly stunning views with every step. At the summit, the “Basket of Dreams” sculpture is a fitting place to pause, reflect, and take in the awe-inspiring views together.
Snuggle under a shared blanket and pour a flask of hot chocolate to warm your hands while the sun gently rises, bathing the mountains and Lake Wakatipu in a soft golden glow. Sipping hot chocolate together as you watch Queenstown awaken beneath you is a truly magical and intimate start to the day, making this quiet moment one to cherish.
Beloved Local Favourite for Breakfast
After raising the heartbeat, and freshening up, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Vudu Café & Larder, a lakeside gem beloved by locals for its fresh, organic ingredients and relaxed atmosphere. Opt for their decadent brioche French toast with berries or keep it simple with scrambled eggs and sourdough toast. Take your time sipping on artisan coffee as you look out over the lake, letting the morning unfold at a leisurely pace.
After breakfast, wander the charming streets of Queenstown, where boutique shops and hidden gems await. Explore Milford Galleries and Cory Marshall Gallery – will you find a piece of artwork that captivates you both?
Afternoon
TSS Earnslaw Cruise for ‘Kate and Leo’ Titanic Moment
Spend a leisurely afternoon aboard the iconic TSS Earnslaw as it glides across Lake Whakatipu, heading towards the charming Walter Peak High Country Farm. As you stand at the bow, wind in your hair and the stunning backdrop of towering mountains behind you, it’s the perfect chance to recreate your own “Kate and Leo” Titanic moment. Whether you strike a playful pose or simply hold each other close, this romantic voyage sets the stage for a memorable experience. Once at Walter Peak, explore the picturesque farm, enjoy afternoon tea, and take in the tranquillity of this stunning lakeside working farm, all while cherishing the magic of your lakeside adventure together.
Wine Tasting at The Winery
All aboard back to Queenstown before stepping into The Winery, where wine lovers and those curious about wine can indulge in a tasting experience like no other. With an impressive selection of over 80 wines available for sampling, including some of New Zealand’s finest vintages, why not select a wine for your significant other to try – will it be a winner. Settle into the relaxed atmosphere, surrounded by walls of wine, and pair your tasting with locally sourced cheese or chocolate for the perfect complement. It’s an ideal way to discover the flavours of Central Otago and beyond.
Back at Hulbert House, retreat to the comfort of your room and enjoy some quiet time together. Relax, and scroll through the memories captured during the day. Whether you choose to snuggle up and close your eyes for a while or dive into a few chapters of your book, the moment is yours to savour. If you’re in the mood for a little refreshment, a selection of Hansons & Sons speciality tea, freshly brewed coffee, or perhaps a well-deserved adult beverage is available to complete your moment of rest and relaxation.
Evening
In-house Dining and Bath Butler Indulgence
Enjoy a romantic night in at Hulbert House, where the simple pleasures of a quiet evening together feel truly luxurious. Ask the team to arrange Pedro’s House of Lamb or decide on some Uber Eats delivery, and settle onto the veranda as the sun sets over Lake Wakatipu. Wrapped in a cosy blanket, savour every bite while watching the sky transform into soft hues of pink and orange.
As the evening draws in, retreat to your room to indulge in our Bath Butler experience. Let the warm, candlelit bath, filled with sensual oils and flower petals, create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation and connection, bringing your romantic night to a truly indulgent close.
Day 3: Private Adventures and Lakeside Serenity
Morning
Breakfast at Yonder and Glenorchy Day Trip
Start your third day with breakfast at Hilbert House. Choose one of your other favourites from the delicious menu – will it be sweet or savoury today? Or make a selection of continental treats to start the day ready to explore beyond Queenstown.
After breakfast, set off for a romantic day trip to Glenorchy, a stunning 45-minute drive along one of the most scenic roads in New Zealand. As you wind along the edge of Lake Whakatipu, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the Southern Alps and the sparkling turquoise waters below. The journey itself is part of the romance, with every turn revealing a new breathtaking vista.
Once you arrive in Glenorchy, spend the morning exploring the peaceful lakeside village. Take a gentle walk along the Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway, where boardwalks lead you through wetlands with views of the mountains reflected in the water. The tranquillity and beauty of Glenorchy make it an idyllic spot to spend time together, away from the crowds.
Afternoon
Picnic Lunch and Glenorchy Exploration
Prepare for a memorable afternoon with a gourmet picnic lunch from Hulbert House, perfectly packed for your adventure to the serene shores of Glenorchy. Spread your blanket under the shade of native trees, enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature, and indulge in a selection of artisanal sandwiches, fresh fruits, and local cheeses, thoughtfully curated by Hulbert House. As you dine with the majestic backdrop of the Southern Alps, it’s a moment of pure tranquillity and connection, adding a touch of luxury to your day in the wild beauty of Glenorchy.
In the afternoon, explore more of Glenorchy’s natural beauty by taking a drive to Paradise, a remote and beautiful area known for its pristine wilderness. The journey takes you past ancient beech forests, open plains, and snow-capped peaks, providing plenty of opportunities to stop and marvel at the scenery. With your partner by your side, this will feel like a journey to the ends of the earth, surrounded by the untouched beauty of New Zealand’s wild landscape.
Evening
Private Dining at Amisfield Bistro
Return to Queenstown in the evening for an unforgettable dining experience at Amisfield Bistro. Renowned for its farm-to-table philosophy and exquisite seasonal tasting menus, Amisfield is the perfect choice for a romantic and indulgent dinner. Opt for the ‘Trust the Chef’ menu, where each course is a surprise, crafted from the finest local ingredients and paired with wines from the region.
Dine outdoors on the terrace, surrounded by vineyards and mountain views, as the summer sunsets. The personalised service, exquisite food, and peaceful surroundings will make this an unforgettable evening of romance and celebration.
Day 4: Leisurely Morning and Farewell
Morning
On your final morning at Hulbert House, start the day with a leisurely in-house breakfast, savouring the fresh flavours of locally sourced ingredients while enjoying the peaceful views from the Palm Lounge. As you linger over your breakfast, take a few quiet moments to reflect on the romantic journey you’ve shared over the past few days, filled with cherished memories of breathtaking scenery, intimate dinners, and special moments together.
Before departing, wander the serene gardens one last time, and sip coffee on the veranda, letting the calm and elegance of Hulbert House leave a lasting impression on this unforgettable escape.
This romantic itinerary offers a perfect balance of indulgence, adventure, and intimate moments, creating a memorable summer escape for couples. From exploring the serene landscapes of Glenorchy and Arrowtown to sharing exquisite meals in Queenstown’s finest restaurants, this journey promises to deepen your connection while experiencing the best of what the region has to offer.