The resort town of Queenstown is sophisticated and fantastically scenic. Its lake and mountain landscape is suited to almost any kind of adventure.
Queenstown sits on the shore of Lake Wakatipu among dramatic alpine ranges. It’s rumoured that gold prospectors - captivated by the majestic beauty of the surrounding mountains and rivers - gave this now cosmopolitan town its name.
There’s skiing from winter right through to spring, and activities such as bungy jumping, sky diving, canyon swinging, jet boating, horse trekking and river rafting all year round. It is also a renowned cycling destination, providing everything from easy scenic tracks to backcountry trails, road rides to heli-biking and the Southern Hemisphere’s only gondola accessed downhill mountain biking.
If hardcore adventure isn't your thing, there are plenty of mellow options available. Experience one of the many walking and hiking trails, sightseeing tours or indulge yourself with spa treatments, boutique shopping and excellent food and wine.
A popular holiday spot at any time of the year, Queenstown is renowned for its four distinctive seasons. Winter brings crisp, blue-sky days, spring retains the snow but blooms into longer, warmer days, summer offers sunshine and long twilights, and autumn a burst of brilliant red and gold.
Queenstown is your basecamp for cycling in the lower South Island. There’s no better way to explore the heritage and scenery of the Whakatipu Basin than on two wheels. The sunny alpine climate is ideal for bike rides and there are accessible trails everywhere for all ages and abilities. Whether you’re in the mood for a short ride or planning a multi-day mission, Queenstown has a cycle trail for you.
The Queenstown Trail is New Zealand’s most popular Great Ride. Over 130kms of beautiful off-road trails lead from Queenstown to Gibbston wine country via Arrowtown. Ride past lakes, along rivers, through stunning alpine vistas, heritage sites and vines. Wherever you ride, you’re never far from a refreshing pitstop at one of our region’s celebrated cafés, cellar doors and restaurants.
Queenstown’s a cycle-friendly town with bike hire, trail transport and tour operators all keen to help you make the most of the Queenstown Trail.
