Winter in Queenstown, New Zealand is the perfect time to embrace the cold and experience some of the most picturesque places. From snow-capped mountains to beautiful lookouts, the winter landscape is breathtaking. Here are some of my personal suggestions on destinations to explore during the winter season (that doesn’t just include ski fields).
QUEENSTOWN GARDENS
The Queenstown Gardens are a must for winter travellers. This beautiful park offers stunning views of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown township and the surrounding mountains. My suggestion would be to take a stroll through the gardens with a warm coffee in hand, or explore the park’s walking and biking trail.
SAINT OMER PARK
Saint Omer Park is on the opposite side of the Queenstown Gardens, across Lake Wakatipu. Again, it’s a great option if you’re wanting to take a walk from town, overlooking the beautiful lake and mountains.
CROWN RANGE SUMMIT LOOKOUT
The Crown Range Summit Lookout is as stunning as it is for every season of the year, and offers some incredible views of the Otago landscape during winter. As it is the highest road in New Zealand, sitting at 1,121 metres above sea level it provides panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains and valley below. The lookout is accessible by car, and is a great spot for a coffee break.
Want to see what Crown Range looks like in Autumn? Check out my Part One of the Best Autumn Destinations in the South here.
ONSEN HOT POOLS
After a day of winter adventures, there’s nothing better than a relaxing soak in a hot pool. The Onsen Hot Pools in Queenstown offer the perfect retreat, with private indoor and outdoor pools overlooking the Shotover River and stunning mountain views. Along with your hot pool is also the option to enjoy a range of spa treatments and massages, as well as drink and snack options when booking in.
Another hot pool option which I am yet to try is Kamana Lakehouse (which is only available if you accompany this along with a stay in the lodge) or recently the newly built Driftaway Queenstown which I have heard great things about.
BOB’S COVE
Bob’s Cove is a hidden gem located just a stone’s throw away from the vibrant Queenstown. The journey to Bob’s Cove is a short one from town, just a 14km drive or roughly 15 minutes. It’s also a scenic one, winding through the valley along the stunning Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. The walk is quite short, roughly a 30 minute loop and well worth it for the views.
ANYWHERE FOR A WINTER SUNRISE OR SUNSET
Obviously not a place but do yourself a favour and no matter where you are staying in Queenstown, make sure you get up early and head somewhere for sunrise, or alternatively for sunset. This time during winter is magic and well worth the effort for.
SKI FIELDS
Although I don’t have much experience in this department, I feel it needs a mention as I know for a fact that the South Island is known for its amazing ski fields, including Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Treble Cone. These fields offer a wide range of runs for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, as well as (of course) stunning views of the mountains.
The winter season in the South is usually reserved for snowboarding and skiing but if you aren’t into the sports side of things, its still a must-visit for anyone who loves a bit of snow and stunning views. With so many incredible destinations to explore, you won’t regret it.