Queenstown in known for its ‘straight out of a postcard’ landscapes. The kind that takes your breath away every corner you turn. It’s like wearing rose coloured glasses the entire time.
The beauty of Queenstown is that this unique place boasts options for romantic experiences at any time of year. It is an extremely popular choice for honeymoons and holiday get-aways with your loved one. From flying over the snow dusted caps of the Southern Alps, to bathing in hot pools or picnicking on the shores of Lake Wakatipu – you will fall head over heels with this small alpine town.
Here are a few of our favourite picks for couples to do as first-time visitors to Queenstown!
1) Go on a tour of the Gibbston Wineries
Gibbston, also known as ‘Valley of the Vines’ is home to some of the oldest vineyards in Central Otago and most of the wineries are family-owned dating back to as far as 1983. You can either hire a bike and ride around from winery to winery, or jump onto a hop-on-hop-off bus tour. Featuring large wine caves, historical buildings and utterly romantic outdoor garden settings – this is a must do activity and can be done come rain or shine.
2) Soak in the Hot Pools
Perhaps it’s been a long day of adrenaline activities and you both need some R&R, or perhaps you and your loved one simply want to start the day right by soaking in a hot pool overlooking Queenstown’s famous mountain scenescape – either way, the Onsen Hot Pools should be at the top of your list for a romantic experience. They are very private and enclosed, so it feels like it’s just the two of you there basking in the views. It’s worth noting that this activity needs to be booked well in advance due to how iconic it has become.
3) Take a scenic flight
There is so much to explore with both feet on the ground, however, to soar above the mountains, glaciers, azure blue lakes and lush valleys is utterly exhilarating. Queenstown offers many scenic flight options depending on your budget and how far you go. Most tours take less than an hour and are either helicopters or small fixed wing planes. Looking down on such vast landscapes with someone special is a bucket-list experience we couldn’t recommend more!
For an added spot of romance, opt for a glacial landing complete with a glass of bubbles to toast those views.
4) Stargazing
Romantic and FREE. Queenstown’s remote location means that you don’t need to go very far to see galaxies and shooting stars with your naked eye. If you are an astrology enthusiast and keep track of the Southern Lights, there is ample opportunity to see these during winter. Drive yourselves up Coronet Peak ski field, sit on the rooftop of your car and share a bottle of wine whilst gazing up at the stars. Alternatively, you can drive to Moke Lake on the way out towards Glenorchy, set up camp and let the Milky Way enchant you all night long.
5) Cruise Lake Wakatipu
The Earnslaw is a steam-powered boat from the gold mining days of Queenstown. A precious piece of history, it still runs completely on coal and, as you step on the boat, you transport back to the early 1900s. Take a peek at the engine room, check out the mini museum or simply kick back with a beer or wine as you travel across Lake Wakatipu. You will arrive at Walter Peak Farm where you have the option to feast on what might be one of the most mouth-watering buffet style gourmet meals you’ll ever have.
Whether you choose to wine and dine, kick back and relax in a spa; or decide to get out there and bond over some adrenaline pumping activities – Queenstown is the perfect place for a couple’s retreat!
