Milford Sound
They say that nature heals and we couldn’t agree more. The great outdoors is a refreshing and constant source of calmness and, within the expansive landscapes of Central Otago, numerous hidden gems await your discovery.
While these accommodations may be slightly secluded, they beautifully demonstrate how a harmonious bond with nature can coexist with the genuine comforts of home. Moreover, each of these properties is conveniently situated within a short drive from Queenstown, allowing you to relish the vibrant energy and liveliness of our charming town. If you’re ready to ditch the big hotel chain and stay somewhere truly unique, check out these options.
The Cottages at Lake Hayes
Lake Hayes is such a stunning sightseeing spot that it’s often hard to turn your back and leave the views. If you choose to stay at The Cottages, you don’t have to! This popular accommodation boasts five luxe lakeside cottages at Lake Hayes, conveniently located between Queenstown and Arrowtown. From inside out, the views are masterfully planned; the interiors feature cosy sheepskin beanbags and a wood burner. Each Cottage also has a curated art collection, commissioned exclusively for The Cottages from New Zealand artists. The outdoor areas feature mountain views, commissioned by Mother Nature herself, to enjoy from your private hot tub. The Cottages have recently been named the number 1 of 142 specialty lodging accommodations on Trip Advisor with over 80 5-star reviews.
The Headwaters Eco Lodge, Glenorchy
The Headwaters Lodge has sustainability and regeneration at its core. There are unique and charming chalets located at the head of Lake Wakatipu where you can unwind in private and tune into the scenery around you.
‘Adventures in Paradise’ is the next step in the Headwaters founder’s journey to fully inspiring and educating people about the landscape; opt for an intimate guided travel experience during your stay to go even further off-grid into this true paradise.
Moke Lake Luxury Dome Glamping
So close to Queenstown yet so disconnected from the hustle and bustle, this lakeside glamping getaway is a visually stunning and comfortable version of remote mountain camping. Typical of luxury glamping, you’ll enjoy a comfortable queen sized bed tucked inside Queenstown’s only geodesic dome tents; the perfect blend of rustic camping and modern conveniences. Outside is a spacious deck to enjoy lake views or stargazing and a BBQ area.
The Great Glenorchy Alpine Base Camp
Having just opened in December 2022, The Great Glenorchy Alpine Base Camp is one of the newest eco-retreats and off-grid stays in the area. This low-consumption, low-impact adventure base camp, inspired by the historic mountaineer’s huts scattered around the Southern Alps, is redefining wilderness holidays with some added comforts. Although there’s no wifi, guests can be cozy and unwind while being fully connected to the raw beauty of their surroundings.
The Great Glenorchy Alpine Base Camp has an unwavering commitment to regenerative practices and sustainability. From utilizing renewable energy sources like solar power and hydroelectricity to employing water conservation measures and waste reduction strategies, every aspect of the base camp’s operations is designed with sustainability in mind. The camp also uses its organic gardens and other local ingredients for the meals served, showcasing a farm-to-table approach and reducing carbon emissions associated with food transportation.
When you choose this amazing alpine accommodation, you can know that your stay contributes to the preservation of the pristine surroundings and supports a deep respect for the land.
HawkRidge Chalet, Arrowtown
Head back to the good old farming roots of New Zealand with a stay at HawkRidge Estate. The Chalet and Alpine Suit is perched high on a ridge on Threepwood Farm, surrounded by views of Coronet Peak and the Remarkables Mountain. These vistas would only get better if enjoyed from the rural accommodation’s outdoor hot tub, chilled drink in hand. As you’re staying on a farm, you may be lucky enough to wake up to the sounds of lambs in Spring or deer in Autumn.
Luxury Bivouac, Queenstown
Stay in a home that has won Habitus Australasia’s House of the Year title, perfectly designed to sit and drink a local pinot in front of the fireplace and watch the storms roll down the lake. Being only a 10 minute drive from Queenstown, you can explore the local restaurants and adrenaline activities while knowing you have a comfortable home to return to. This private lakeside getaway is the perfect escape from city bustle for an award-winning experience.
Tiny Home with a view, Queenstown
This stay really puts the ‘tiny’ in a tiny house but the elevated lake and mountain views impress in a big way. This private and secluded retreat is perfect if you’re seeking a unique and minimalist approach to your getaway without compromising comfort. Sit out on the balcony and soak in the alpine vista or warm up by the wood-burner after a day on the slopes. This is your chance to break away from the norm and indulge in an off-grid stay where every m2 is designed to delight.
Warbrick Historic Stone Cottage, Gibbston
Near the idyllic Arrowtown, this restored gold miners stone cottage makes for the perfect mix of history and modern comfort with the added bonus of being nearby to some of the best wineries in Central Otago. Explore the area or Gibbston River Trail before returning to the peaceful and private setting of a rural family farm to relax at your cottage away from home.
Whether you’re looking to discover a new corner of the wilderness, find a new twist on your favourite holiday destination or simply escape to anywhere, this list can help you discover what it’s like to tune out the noise of everyday life and dial into the rejuvenating natural world around you.
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