Queenstown is an enchanting place that looks like it was pulled straight out of a fairytale. With glittering lakes, rugged hills, snow-dusted mountains, and thick forests, it’s no wonder this town is considered to be one of the most beautiful in New Zealand’s South Island.
Whether you’re planning on pushing yourself to your limits with bungee jumping, jet boating, and skydiving or taking things at a slightly slower pace with hiking, scenic boat cruises, and wine tasting, Queenstown is an amazing place for a vacation. But before you start putting together an incredible itinerary, you need to choose a cool hotel to stay in!
Queenstown boasts all sorts of eco-friendly lodges, spectacular 5-star hotels, and charming boutique inns. In fact, there are so many fantastic places to stay in Queenstown that you may find it almost impossible to pick one. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 hotels in Queenstown.
- Short on time and don’t want to read the whole article? Here are our top 3 picks!
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).
The 10 Best Boutique Hotels in Queenstown, NZ
1. Queenstown House
Queenstown House stands out as one of the most unique hotels in Queenstown thanks to its spectacular views that stretch over Lake Wakatipu and the city’s skyline. Offering the best of both worlds, this charming hotel is just a short walk from Central Queenstown while providing all the peace and tranquility of a rustic lodge in the middle of the countryside.
Choose this cozy hotel and you’ll be rewarded with countless extras you won’t find elsewhere. From a complimentary laundry service and a daily a la carte breakfast to wine tasting and canapes served every evening, this hotel will make you feel like a VIP.
Plus, you can enjoy fresh mountain breezes on the panoramic terrace during the summer and cuddle up by the crackling fireplace in the lounge during the winter.
2. Hulbert House
Hulbert House is one of the best hotels in Queenstown if you want to stay somewhere that has a fascinating past. This elegant hotel is set inside a Victorian villa that dates back to 1888. Today, the magnificent property is made up of six bespoke suites, each of which is entirely unique and named after people who played an important part in the property’s history.
The inside of the hotel was designed by the remarkably talented Neil McLachlan. He combined exclusive milled carpets, sparkling French chandeliers, luxurious English wallpapers, and genuine antiques to create an opulent space you’ll never want to leave.
The beauty doesn’t end indoors. Step outside and you’ll discover breathtaking views across Lake Wakatipu.
3. Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
One of the best 5-star hotels in Queenstown when it comes to location, Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel is just a short stroll from the center of town while also being surrounded by alpine forest, which is home to many hiking, walking, and cycling routes.
For an unforgettable experience, splurge on the Tower Suite. The most spacious room in the hotel, this suite features 270-degree alpine vistas through floor-to-ceiling windows, a full kitchen with the latest equipment, and luxurious bathrooms with glass walls. A fireplace and underfloor heating keep you warm in the winter, while air-conditioning keeps you refreshed in the summer.
4. The Dairy Private Hotel
Keep your vacation as eco-friendly as possible by staying at the Dairy Private Hotel. One of the top Queenstown luxury hotels, this elegant lodge has no single-use plastic, uses local products as much as possible, and provides organic Antipodes bathroom amenities made from New Zealand-sourced ingredients.
An excellent choice for a romantic getaway, this hotel only accepts guests aged 12 and up. Roaring fireplaces, complimentary drinks, and a secluded outdoor space with a fire pit and hot tub means you can enjoy a passionate escape surrounded by luxury. Book the Junior Suite and you’ll be treated to a plush king-size bed, sultry mood lighting, and a skylight so you can watch the stars.
5. The Spire Hotel
Named after the nearby church steeple, The Spire Hotel is one of the best Queenstown hotels for foodies. There are 150+ cafes, bars, and restaurants throughout the city, with the on-site No5 Church Lane being one of the best.
This award-winning dining room features a constantly evolving menu that highlights seasonal, locally sourced produce. Pair your chosen dish with a hand-selected Central Otago wine and you’ll be in gastronomic heaven!
While the hotel’s suites all look similar, thanks to their super king-size beds, stone-clad fireplaces, and spacious balconies, each boasts a different view. Whether you dream of gazing at the city streets, shimmering lake, or jagged mountains, you’ll find your ultimate panorama here.
6. Stoneridge Estate
Find out what it feels like to be a celebrity by staying at the Stoneridge Estate. One of the most incredible luxury hotels in Queenstown, this property rewards guests with sensational views, a boutique vineyard, and accommodation that’s almost too opulent to be true.
Made from native New Zealand rock, slate, and timber, each of the suites boasts exemplary architecture – and things get even better when you step inside. Whichever option you choose, you’ll be rewarded with a daily cheeseboard and glass of wine from the estate’s vineyard, complimentary a la carte breakfast, luxurious Ashley & Co toiletries, a spacious bathroom with a hot tub, and access to a private lounge with a fireplace and leather sofa.
7. Gibbston Valley Lodge and Spa
When it comes to where to stay in Queenstown for the ultimate pampering experience, it’s got to be the Gibbston Valley Lodge and Spa.
The highlight of this fabulous property is the award-winning spa. Hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the world in the Gibbston Valley, this spa treats you to a glass of sparkling wine or locally-made herbal tea with every treatment. After your facial, massage, or treatment, there are clandestine hot pools and a sauna where you can relax even more.
There’s also a sophisticated cellar for wine-tasting experiences and private dinners, an intimate movie theater, an outdoor fire pit, and a ski lodge-inspired tavern.
8. Azur Lodge
One of the coolest Queenstown hotels, Azur Lodge features just nine private villas, guaranteeing you total peace and quiet for your stay. Delicately perched on the top of a hill, this spectacular hotel is just 5 minutes away from Central Queenstown, but the sprawling views, cool mountain air, and blissful tranquility will make you feel worlds away from any hustle and bustle.
Floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the hotel and villas mean you never have to turn your back from the dramatic views, even while soaking in your oversized tub or cozying up in your plush bed.
There’s a sophisticated open kitchen on-site where fresh, local ingredients are used to create amazing meals. For something more intimate, the hotel can also organize a private candlelit dinner anywhere you like.
9. The Central Private Hotel
The Central Private Hotel’s bright color palette makes it one of our favorite boutique hotels in Queenstown. With magenta bedside tables, cyan wall murals, curved yellow sofas, and artwork scattered throughout the building, this hotel feels more like a contemporary art gallery than a place to lay your head for the night.
During winter, you can make use of the sauna, the lounge with an old-fashioned candy station, and the unlimited free espressos. When the weather’s a little warmer, take advantage of the charming garden and enjoy an al fresco breakfast or moonlit walk.
10. Driftaway Queenstown
If you can’t decide between staying in a rustic lodge or a boutique hotel in Queenstown, consider the Driftaway Queenstown. This lakeside park is home to miniature wooden villas, each of which comes complete with a private kitchen, modern bathroom, and exceptional lake views.
Large hot tubs are scattered throughout the grounds and can be reserved for private use. There’s also a two-level facility hub that provides you with access to a laundry room, sky-drying room, open kitchen, and BBQ area. A great choice for families, a fire truck bath is also available for babies, plus there’s an indoor kids’ room packed with games and toys!
That completes our list of the 10 best Queenstown hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Queenstown? Comment below so we can add them to the list!
Where to Stay in Queenstown
If this is your first visit, we suggest staying in Central Queenstown. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, this gorgeous neighborhood has some of the town’s best high-adrenaline activities, as well as a great choice of bars, restaurants, and boutiques. It’s also where you’ll find some of the coolest hotels in Queenstown.
Fernhill is ideal if you’re looking for something a bit quieter. This peaceful area is on the outskirts of town and offers a handful of shops and restaurants. It’s surrounded by beautiful green spaces and stunning panoramas while being just a short bus ride away from Central Queenstown.
Choose Arthurs Point if you’re visiting Queenstown in the winter. This neighborhood has excellent access to the Coronet Peak Ski Resort. Arrowtown is a top spot for families with young children. You can pan for real gold as a family, cycle along kid-friendly trails, and indulge in baked treats at many cute cafes.
Planning a trip to New Zealand? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!
SHARE THIS ON PINTEREST
