Queenstown Resorts & Hotels with Lake View

Queenstown is a town that pushes the limits, embraces outdoor sports, and invents new ways to make your heartbeat faster. Often referred to as one of the world’s adventure capital, it’s the perfect place to try heart-pumping activities set against an incredible alpine background, as well as for a relaxing vacay with a good book and a cuppa with breathtaking views.

That adventurous spirit runs through everything here, from green valleys and turquoise lakes to dramatic mountains.There’s no time to get bored!

It’s tricky. Locals say that Queenstown is a place where you can experience all four seasons in just one day. Summer is filled with long and sunny days, autumn is usually unpredictable, winter delivers crisp air and snowfall, and spring can be pretty windy and changeable as well.

You should go between June and October for some skiing and snowboarding fun, and from December to March for chill hikes or outdoor picnic dinners. 

Queenstown is all about getting out there and exploring beautiful landmarks, including Lake Wakatipu, a stunning glacial-blue lake you’ll fall in love with, and also The Remarkables, a rugged mountain range that offers you those wow-factor views.

Right in the heart of the town, you’ll find Queenstown Gardens, a tranquil sanctuary where you can wander around rose gardens and big trees. For a little thrill, stop by the Kawarau Bridge, whether to admire the views or take the leap.

Visiting during the summer? Head to Sunshine Bay and enjoy a laid-back arvo by the lake. And when the day winds down, our Oaks Queenstown resorts welcome you back, with warm fireplaces and comfortable rooms.

If you’re looking for a place packed with outdoor activities… Search no more. Get the adrenaline going at one of the three bungees (Kawarau Bridge, the Ledge, or the Nevis) or try an adventurous boat ride through the Shotover River canyons with Shotover Jet.

Make the most of the winter season and try skiing or snowboarding at Coronet Peak or The Remarkables. In summer, hike the Ben Lomond Track, where you’ll find some of the best views in the region.

It’s also worth (or even mandatory) taking a day trip to Milford Sound, part of Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage area. Hope on a cruise and just admire the dramatic waterfalls and cliffs while you take thousands of pictures. Don’t forget to take a raincoat with you, no matter the time of the year… You’ll need it when approaching the waterfalls!

And if you’re in the mood for a chill arvo, visit the town centre and head up on the Skyline gondola and enjoy dinner with panoramic views over the lake and mountains. It’s the perfect way to wind down at the end of your day.

If we’re going to talk about the most famous food in Queenstown, you need to know about the legendary Fergburger and its popular gourmet burgers, but be ready to be in line for a bit… If you don’t feel like waiting, its sister, Fergbaker, is a great option to try a classic Kiwi mince and cheese pie.

You should also give whitebait fritters a try. You’ll see them on heaps of menus around town. Fancy something sweet? Cookie Time is known for its warm, freshly baked treats. Or go for a scoop of hokey pokey at Patagonia Chocolates & Ice Cream… You really can’t go wrong with that one.

And it’s not exactly food, but a glass of  Pinot Noir from a local winery is also something that you should definitely try, either with dinner or on its own.

The town has heaps of events throughout the year, from Shotover Moonlight Marathon across Ben Lomond Station to the famous NZ Golf Open.

In April, you can enjoy autumn colours, local dishes, and family-friendly events at the Arrowtown Autumn Festival. To celebrate the beginning of winter, Queenstown Winter Festival brings live music and street parties to get everybody in a festive mood. Other major events you don’t want to miss are the Whakatipu Music Festival, showcasing local and international talents, and LUMA Enchanted, a magical light and art festival in the Queenstown Gardens.

And if you’re looking for the best hotels in Queenstown to enjoy any of the events, search no more. While staying at Oaks hotels and resorts, you’ll be perfectly placed to access them all. 

The easiest and most convenient way to get into town is by flying into Queenstown International Airport (ZQN), just 10ish minutes from the centre. If you feel like taking things at your own pace, you can rent a car at any of New Zealand's airports and enjoy a great road trip across the South Island before stopping in Queenstown.

There’re also coach services operating daily from the main cities, making it easy to sit back and enjoy the views on your way in.

Hiring a car is a great option, especially if you want the freedom to explore the natural landmarks and different attractions in Queenstown. The public buses are easy to use too. And honestly, the town centre is so walkable that you’ll be happy just walking around.

Hop on the historic TSS Earnslaw or take a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu.

If waking up to mountain views is high on your list, Queenstown hotels with lake views are a popular choice. Staying lakefront along Lake Wakatipu offers a balance of peaceful surroundings and easy access to town.

It’ll also be so convenient for you, as you’ll be placed just a few minutes away from the town centre where all the restaurants, bars and shops are.

At our resorts in Queenstown, mornings often begin with lake and mountain views from your private balcony. Choose from hotel rooms through to 1, 2, 3, and 4 bedroom serviced apartments, featuring kitchen and laundry facilities, underfloor heating, and WiFi inclusive. It’s the kind of base that lets you head out all day, then come back and truly switch off