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.
Soak up Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables. Photo: Airbnb.
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:
Sleeps eight
Direct lake access
Floor to ceiling windows
Expansive balcony with lake and mountain views
Gas fireplace
Underfloor heating
Modern interiors seamlessly blend the inside with out. Photo: Airbnb.
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:
Sleeps up to 10
Private hot tub
Cinema room
Indoor fireplace
Heated floors
A dip with a view. Photo: Airbnb.
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:
Sleeps four
Shared cedar hot tubs
Uninterrupted views of Lake Wakatipu and the mountains
This Queenstown home was designed by Caroline Friese to the highest energy-efficient standard. Photo: Airbnb.
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:
Sleeps four
Outdoor spa pool
Sunken outdoor patio
Mechanical ventilation system
Indoor fireplace
Film projector
Take in the alpine surrounds through this eight-metre high glass wall. Photo: Airbnb.
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:
Sleeps six
Designer kitchen
Underfloor heating and fireplace
Spa pool
Seven minutes from airport
Tom’s House won a National Design Award among others in 2016. Photo: Airbnb.
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:
Sleeps six
Outdoor spa
Film projector
Underfloor heating and fireplace
Coffee machine
Child-friendly
Seven minutes from airport
