Whether you’re seeking a thrill or a breath of alpine air, Queenstown on New Zealand’s South Island is a destination – steeped in rugged grandeur and opportune adrenalin – to consider this year.
Below, we take a look at some of the best Queenstown Airbnbs to come back to after a long day on the lake or slopes – from Jacks Point hideaways to Queenstown lakeside villas.
Lakehouse Villa 3, Queenstown
Best for: lakeside cosying
Just three minutes-drive from the heart of Queenstown and 10 minutes from the airport, this lake house is perfectly positioned for exploring the South Island’s natural wonders – or for staying in and watching the world go by through the 2.7m floor-to-ceiling windows that look out to Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables range.
Notable features:
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Sleeps eight
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Direct lake access
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Floor to ceiling windows
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Expansive balcony with lake and mountain views
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Gas fireplace
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Underfloor heating
The Elms at Lake Hayes, Lake Hayes
Best for: group getaways of opulence
A middle floor apartment boasting four bedrooms, four bathrooms, two lounge areas – not to mention a cinema and private hot tub – The Elms at Lake Hayes is an opulent group getaway set on the waterfront. Venture 15 minutes into Queenstown for dinner or book a private chef and dine al fresco at home, soaking in the sunset over the lake.
Notable features:
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Sleeps up to 10
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Private hot tub
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Cinema room
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Indoor fireplace
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Heated floors
Crystal Waters Suite 2, Queenstown
Best for: romantic retreating
Nestled into the hillside, the newly established Crystal Waters offers elevated rustic interiors with views impossible of valuing. Featuring a wood burner, fully equipped kitchen, floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the lake and mountains, and cedar hot tub, you’re all set for a romantic getaway in the lakeside city.
Notable features:
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Sleeps four
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Shared cedar hot tubs
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Uninterrupted views of Lake Wakatipu and the mountains
Queenstown Retreat, Mount Creighton
Best for: contemporary maximalist design
Surrounded by beech forest and the song of native birds, this Queenstown retreat is a haven for those seeking peace and quiet among the trees. Spend the day at the lake – just 10 minutes by foot – or get lost in a page turner on the vintage lounge before setting up the projector for an at-home film screening.
Notable features:
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Sleeps four
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Outdoor spa pool
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Sunken outdoor patio
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Mechanical ventilation system
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Indoor fireplace
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Film projector
Shinglehouse, Jacks Point
Best for: 360° views of the Remarkables
Oak flooring, Persian rugs, silk and linen bedding, alpaca throws and New Zealand wool carpets texture the architectural venture that is Shinglehouse. Designed as two dwellings connected by a short passage, casual luxury and a seamless flow between indoors and outdoors are considered thoughtfully. Just 20 minutes from Queenstown and at the foot of the Remarkables, you’re primely positioned for exploring the raw terrain of farmland and walking trails surrounding.
Notable features:
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Sleeps six
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Designer kitchen
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Underfloor heating and fireplace
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Spa pool
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Seven minutes from airport
Tom’s House, Jacks Point
Best for: minimalist award-winning architecture
Lap up the Otago sun all day long from Tom’s House, a contemporary retreat positioned on an elevated north-facing location in Jacks Point. Curl up in the loft with a journal and pen, unwind in the generously-sized outdoor spa or just get lost in the mountain panoramas that lies before you.
Notable features:
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Sleeps six
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Outdoor spa
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Film projector
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Underfloor heating and fireplace
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Coffee machine
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Child-friendly
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Seven minutes from airport