Carved out of land by rivers, lakes and glaciers with an incredible backdrop of mountain ranges, Queenstown attracts all kinds of adventurers from all parts of the World. The resort city of New Zealand is situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, a Z-shaped lake formed by glacial processes, nestled among the mountains. In fact, in the early 19th century, reaching the now easily accessible site was an adventure in itself – an extraordinarily difficult one thanks to its perilous landscape. However, it was through the efforts of innovative entrepreneurs and adventurers that Queenstown became the adventuresome destination it is now.
Let’s dive straight into the unique experiences Queenstown has in store for you!
Adventures of all kinds
Queenstown is especially known for its thrilling and iconic adventures. Risk-takers can skydive, handglide or paraglide from as high as 15,000 feet, as well as experience the town’s spectacular views, which include both lush greenery and icy glaciers. Not to forget that New Zealand’s highest Bungy jump at 135 metres right above Nile River is the ultimate adventure for adrenaline junkies. The resort town also offers a variety of water adventures from relaxing canoeing trips to addictive river surfing. But the adventure capital’s thrills aren’t only limited to the outdoors. Thrill seekers have an option to experience a live-action haunted house, battle zombies in 360º Virtual Reality and ride roller coasters. The city is also perfect for adventurers on a budget. The intimidating land terrain offers low-cost and exhilarating land adventures which include cycling, hiking and road trips.
The Climate Overturn
Located in the Southern Hemisphere, Queenstown experiences Summer in the months of December, January and February, while the winter months last from June to August. Apart from this, the city also experiences Autumn and Spring seasons. The four distinct seasons offer vastly different experiences exclusive to these seasonal months. The summer allows you to spend your New Year’s Eve swimming or relaxing on the water of Lake Wakatipu, or enjoying the Zirka Circus (an animal-free circus) who perform only once each year in February. The winter months are best for mountain climbing, skiing and snowboarding, and exclusive Winter festivals celebrate the alpine treasure of the city. While Spring months are famous for enjoying the spring blooms alongside the snowcapped peaks and savouring the local produce, the autumn months are famous for the dramatic landscapes featuring blaze of reds and gold, along with world-famous Wine & Food festivals.
Diverse Dining PossibilitiesFood adventurers will not only find their taste buds delighted in Queenstown but will also be amazed by the charming ambience the dining places of the city has to offer. The city has a number of historic eateries, where you can experience the cultural beauty of New Zealand unfolding. Diners can choose to dine with a lake view or a mountain view or both. The Stratosphere Restaurant, which overlooks the city, the Remarkables mountain range and the Lake Wakatipu, provides the ultimate gastronomical experience in Queenstown with its delectable buffet offerings (including many vegetarian options) and breathtaking views. But that is not all, the adventure capital offers you the Antartic experience right in the heart of the city itself – an ice bar made with over 18 tonnes of crystal clear ice, filled with fantastic ice sculptures that provide excellent drinks in ice glasses itself!
Scenic Marvels
The marvellous topography of Queenstown is not only awe-inspiring to look at from the skies and the water, but is equally, if not more, beautiful to behold up close. In fact, the city boasts more than 10 magnificent places to catch the sunset and sunrise, with each site offering a spectacularly unique view with different hues of colours. Scuba diving lets you catch sight of the underwater world of Lake Wakatipu, which is full of bizarre fish, corals and shipwrecks. If you don’t like getting wet, the Queenstown Underwater Observatory is another remarkable place to witness the underwater inhabitants of Lake Wakatipu in action. The city also provides the perfect spot and opportunity for keen stargazers to witness the stunning sights of the universe through the naked eye.
If you are thinking this is it, don't, because these are just the highlights. Queenstown has many more thrilling experiences to offer and places to be explored. How about making it your next travel destination and finding out for yourself?