Tips on Where to Stay in Queenstown - from the Expert!

When I talk to prospective visitors to Queenstown one of the most common questions I get is “where should I stay”? After all Queenstown has a huge range of accommodation options, from hostels and holiday homes to high-end pent houses, and being spread far and wide across the area the choice can be a little, well, daunting to say the least!                                                 

The beauty of Queenstown (apart from the scenery) is the size of the place. Once you’ve been here you’ll realise the area isn’t actually that big (especially for those folk coming from big overseas cities!). You can get from the Airport to downtown Queenstown in just 10 minutes, and from Queenstown to Arrowtown – a must see – in just 20 minutes. So while most people think they need to stay in the centre to be close to the action that isn’t always the case.

In fact the resort has such a diverse area that I’d encourage visitors to keep their options open when thinking about where to stay. For example those with young families or who are looking to really get away from it all might be better off staying in leafy Arrowtown, with its olde-worlde charm, cosy cafes and beautiful walks. It’s a short drive to Coronet Peak, Gibston Valley, and Queenstown but perfectly situated and yet gives you the feel of really being away from the hustle and bustle of town.
 
Or another good area that is slightly off the beaten track is Fernhill. You’re close to the centre of Queenstown but often won’t have to pay the price tag of central accommodation. Plus it has stunning 180 degree views of the lake, the Remarkables and Cecil Peak and it’s only a 20 minutes walk to town – not a bad choice at all!

On the other side of town and close to the airport Kelvin Heights and Frankton are also a great base for visitors keen to enjoy the wider Queenstown area, especially those keen on golf, as you’ll be right next to the Queenstown Golf Club and close to Jack’s Point, two of the most popular courses in the area. Plus the areas enjoy the rare luxury of sunshine all year round which can add a real boost to a winter vacation!

A reliable bus service connects all the local towns and main routes which is handy for visitors looking to make the most of the area and thinking about staying around the resort.

Over the last 20 years we’ve found that a number of our most popular holiday properties are those that are based slightly out of the centre, with people coming back time and time again to stay there. So if you are wondering where to stay in Queenstown – it definitely pays to keep your search wide!

Doug MacGillivray, Owner, Resort Property Rentals

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