Queenstown has been a mecca for international explorers for over 200 years. First by those coming to New Zealand to search for gold and most recently, adventure seekers and skiers drawn to the area’s striking snow capped mountains and Fjord lakes. A village with an Aspen-like feel to it, the area boasts ski and sport shops, fashion boutiques and neat little eateries and bistros. In the heart of the city, facing the beautiful views of Lake Wakatipu sits the 150-year-old Eichardt’s Private Hotel, a favorite resting place for the town's up-market visitors.
When the northern hemisphere is hot and sweltering in the dog days of summer, the southern side of the globe is cold in winter. From June to October, Queenstown is the ski capital of the south and Eichardt’s Private Hotel is the place to stay while hitting the slopes. The property is acknowledged perennially with awards such as the Best Luxury Suite Hotel at the World Luxury Hotel Awards, Forever Fabulous Hotel by Tatler Magazine, and by the Andrew Harper Hideaway Report as one of the top resorts in the world.
For lovers of pampering and skiing, Eichardt’s offers everything from private heli-skiing experiences on untouched powder to in-suite ski equipment fittings. In fact, for the fourth year the property has been named New Zealand’s Best Ski Boutique Hotel at the World Ski Awards.
Each room has exceptional views of the lake or nearby town, which are both literally a few steps away. Inside there are stately drawing rooms with period furnishings, books, and objects d’art. These gathering places are perfect for chatting with friends about the day’s adventures or shaking off the cold with a brandy, whisky or sherry, with compliments of the hotel. There’s also a daily cocktail with canapés hosted by the hotel manager.
There are only seven suites, each with an exquisite chalet feeling about them with contemporary fireplace, lavish furnishings, fine art pieces as well as a spacious outdoor veranda overlooking the village and the lake. No worries about those chilly nights; with a flick of a switch the natural gas fire ignites and heats the room to a toasty temperature.
The bedroom is in a separate elevated area of the suite and features a king size bed, modern design, and all of the comforts necessary for a wonderful stay. Bathrooms are lavish as well in design with separate deep soaking tub and bespoke amenities. The hotel has thought of all the extras such as complimentary soft drinks and snacks. For those needing a bit more space Eichardt’s also has several apartments and the impressive Penthouse suite with two bedrooms, large open kitchen and living space. There is also an expansive 100-square-meter terrace with hot tub and barbeque.
The dining experience is perfectly suited for the stay at the hotel. The Grille by Eichardt's is reminiscent of a New York Bistro or French Brasserie with open kitchen and friendly staff dashing about. The eatery is known for the great steaks, fish, locally sourced oysters and their seafood chowder as well as more exotic dishes such as the potted wild rabbit and wild venison shepherd’s pie.
Eichardt’s Bar is also a Queenstown landmark has been a gathering place for over 100 years. The cozy bar has a crackling fireplace which is the perfect place for bending the elbow with other guests and locals.
While perfect for snow bunnies itching to get on the slopes during the Northern Hemisphere's summer, Queenstown is an adventure-traveler's dream during every season. Visitors will find adrenaline fixes such as parachuting, camping, mountain climbing and biking, and the world’s highest bungy jump. There also plenty to do for lovers of soft adventure and the great outdoors. From boating on the lake, to visiting the incredible waterfalls up close as well as dog-sledding and snow–shoeing.
For a complete next level of adrenaline, take one of the region’s most famous attractions, the Shotover Jet canyon boat trip. This thrill ride is next to crazy as a pilot takes passengers on a breathtaking jet boat ride through dramatic and narrow Shotover River canyons. It’s an amazing thrill ride as guests come within a hair to the canyon walls.
Regardless of when you choose to visit, Queenstown is a city for all seasons. And should you find yourself booking a trip, Eichardt’s Private Hotel is a great choice. Afterall, the property has been taking care of guests for over a century.
