Queenstown, an idyllic resort town, lies on the shore of Lake Wakatipu in the southwest of South Island, New Zealand, surrounded by beautiful alpine peaks. Considered by many as one of the world’s top adventure capitals, this nature-laden destination offers a wide choice of adrenaline-boosting activities including white water rafting, zip-lining, skiing, skydiving and bungee-jumping (and a particular highlight, the world’s largest rope swing at Nevis Valley). Those who prefer soaking up the gorgeous scenery without too much effort will enjoy the lush vineyards, pristine golf courses, the dazzling Queenstown Gardens and the town’s luxury spas and wellness centres. Culinary types will also be pleased with Queenstown’s exciting gourmand offerings - the lively bar and restaurant scene provide a variety of flavours and experiences.
Idyllically located on Lake Wakatipu, the tiny mountain village of Glenorchy is a place of blissful tranquility among swoon-worthy natural landscapes. Glenorchy is the perfect laid-back counterpoint to nearby busy and bustling Queenstown. Despite a fair amount of visitors, Glenorchy has managed to preserve its quaint, small village atmosphere while providing a petrol station, a grocery store, a post office and a few quirky pubs and cafes to travellers seeking some of New Zealand’s finest tramping, horse trekking, kayaking and jet boating in the astonishingly picturesque surrounding area. If you are seeking a quiet retreat off the beaten track, this rustic little town might be just the destination for you.
As previously described
Arrowtown is located in a magnificent natural landscape of South Island’s Otago Region. Dwarfed by the towering peaks surrounding the peaceful Arrow River, this enchanting gold-rush village is a treasure trove of historical sights, with over seventy original gold-rush buildings and a fascinating partially restored Chinese settlement. The tree-lined avenues running through this lively little town are strewn with quaint miners’ cottages, funky cafes, fashionable boutiques, trendy galleries, and tempting restaurants and bars. Visit the Jade and Opal Factory shop to see hand carving done on-site, check out Patagonia Chocolates to watch it being made, or play a few rounds on the town’s three immaculate golf courses. More adventurous travellers can revel in the network of famed summer trails and winter ski fields. Arrowtown is an ideal destination for nature lovers, thrill-seekers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Fairlie is a scenic farming town and the the gateway to the Mackenzie Basin, including idyllic destinations such as Lake Tekapo and Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. The town’s history is encapsulated in its local museum, where you can see exhibits of farming and household artifacts from days gone by, while the nearby Mount Dobson ski area is a magnet for skiing and snowboarding fans. For a more quirky experience, visit the Fairlie Alpaca Farm, where you can interact with these friendly creatures and learn how alpaca wool is made.
