Remarkables Lodge, Queenstown

Magnificently set only ten minutes from the premier South Island playgrounds of Queenstown and Lake Wakitipu, the Lodge nestles in charming mature gardens where bellbirds call. Directly behind rise the famed Remarkables, so-called because these mile-high peaks seem constantly to change colour and shape as sun, shade or snow and clouds daily paint different patterns. Only seven sumptuous rooms, some with balconies, means a maximum 14 guests enjoy the Lodge’s incredible views, seclusion and anonymity in a country-estate ambiance with such superb facilities such as a pool in an unbelievable setting, a sauna and spa pool and chemical-free bathing water from a mountain waterfall – and a roaring fire in winter.

Must see:
• The moon rising over Remarkables Mountains from your balcony with a glass of Pinot Noir in your hand
• Arrowtown Museum, see how life was for early gold prospectors then try it yourself, panning for gold in the river
• The views from the top of the Gondola

Must do:
• Something that terrifies you – if you don’t do it here, you’ll never do it – a bungy jump, canyon swing, or sky dive?
• A helicopter from the lodge grounds straight to the top of the
• Remarkables Mountains for a glass of champagne and a snowball fight
• The glorious Dart River on a scenic jet boat ride

Must buy:
• A merino and possum wrap from Untouched World
• Local boutique wines unavailable outside the Otago region
• Cherries as big as you’ve ever seen them, tree ripened and as black as coa

Indicative rates: Rates start from NZ$1090.00(High season) and NZ$720.00(Low season) for the Lodge Rooms.

Award:

2010: Qualmark EnviroGold

123...go! | Something for Nothing...Every Night

First night: Enjoy a bottle of Otago's famous Peregrine Saddleback Pinot Noir
Second night: Two tickets on Queenstown's Gondola, to view Lake Wakatipu from the giddy heights of Bob's peak
Third night: A cruise on Lake Wakatipu on the SS Earnslaw, known affectionately by locals as the Lady of the Lake, a vintage steamship complete with a coal fired boiler
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