Queenstown: Escape into Nature

Written By Renae Mason

Fresh mountain air, crisp clear lakes, and Lupins growing by the side of the road—Queenstown and surrounds is a land of enchantment. It’s true.

Only 3 hours from Sydney by plane until you are immersed in this stunning scenery and can feel the stress leaving your body. It’s a wonderful place to recharge. Be as calm or as adventurous and outdoorsy as you can handle.

A few tips for a trip to Queenstown…

DO

  • Go for the instant shot of nature. From the moment you land on the tarmac prepare to be enveloped in sweet smell of flowers and awesome mountain ranges.

  • Buy some comfy hiking shoes if you don’t already have them, and explore the many short or longer walks on offer for everyone from beginners to advanced.

  • Pack your sunscreen and hat - even on colder days, if you’re anything like me sunburn is inevitable.

  • Hire a 4WD/SUV for non-sealed road encounters.

  • Take a day trip or two or more depending on your appetite for adventures. I went to Arrowtown to look at the heritage main street and there is good coffee and food to be found there. We combined this with a walk around Lake Hayes. The road to Glenorchy is stunning, and if you’re keen to go further, the road out to Paradise and beyond has you safely ensconced in Lord of the Rings scenery - just be careful on those dirt roads and watch out for the sheep! Further afield, you can take a trip to the popular Milford Sound. We opted to try Doubtful Sound instead. It’s a true wilderness excursion, taking the better part of the day to reach the Sound and return, but the journey is the experience and you’ll be rewarded with seals, penguins, maybe dolphins if you’re lucky, and definitely less tourists.

  • Drink wine! Unfortunately, I don’t drink much as I’m allergic so I almost forget to mention that this part of the world really is a hub for those who enjoy the grapes!

DONT

  • Go for the gourmet food. There are some great food spots around, but personally I preferred booking into an AirBnB with a great kitchen and preparing my own meals.

  • Expect summer to be hot enough to swim. The weather can turn from sunny to cloudy to rainy throughout the day, so be prepared with layers for all seasons.


Renae Mason