Queenstown is an adventure destination for everyone from hikers and snowboarders to bungee jumpers and skiers. Its stunning landscape wraps around Lake Wakatipu with the majestic The Remarkables mountain range as the backdrop. No other hotel in town can come close to the commanding views that The Rees Hotel can offer.
Out of the main action of town, this natural beauty provides a serene setting where guests can enjoy one of New Zealand’s famous glasses of wine while enjoying the view. Here are five top reasons why this is the place to stay when in this famous Kiwi destination.
The views
This is a key reason to stay here as the hotel is built along a hill with almost every room enjoying views of the lake and mountains. Many come with balconies to enjoy the fresh air. Pathways wind down the hill leading to the lake. Throughout the day, the scenery changes with the way the sunlight illuminates the mountains and lake. For those that want to relax in the lobby, there is a library of rare books and regional artwork and maps that help tell the story of the area’s history.
The location
Between the international airport and the city center, this hotel is a short drive in either direction making this a convenient place to stay away from the tourist crowds. A panoramic lakeside path provides the perfect way to get some exercise walking, jogging or biking along the water. The walk into town takes about 40 minutes, but the journey is beautiful. Alternatively, guests can hop the hotel’s complimentary shuttle or head down to the pier where water shuttles whisk you across the waves to town or on tours.
The rooms
Fresh from renovations and the recent installation of air conditioning, the accommodations are looking better than ever. Plush beds with soft quilts and power outlets on either side are perfectly positioned to see the lake, and in many rooms, the bathrooms enjoy natural light by the soaking tub. New Zealand-made toiletries are in eco-friendly pump bottles and have a lovely scent.
Perhaps one of the best features is the desk positioned in front of a lovely window. Coffeemakers, refrigerators, slippers and robes are all in place. Housekeeping is exceptional, and they come by each evening to offer turndown service and leave a sweet treat on the pillow.
In addition to traditional guest rooms, there are also larger residences with kitchen and laundry facilities. These are great for families and couples traveling together because they have a shared living area.
The food
The hotel has continually one accolades for its food and beverage offerings including Wine Spectator’s honor for seven consecutive years. In the restaurant, a breakfast buffet is available each morning with the most prized tables by the lakeview window going quickly. Later in the day, lunch and dinner menus offer local recipes prepared by a friendly culinary team in an exhibition kitchen.
The perks
In addition to the free shuttle, the hotel has free bikes guests can borrow. During the winter months, there is free ski storage. Guests are also able to use the laundry facilities for free. A modern fitness center is located on the third floor. The guest list spans the globe. Perhaps part of the views, but also because the staff here speaks more than 20 languages. Those arriving with cars can park underground for free. From this vantage point, all of Queenstown and its surrounding landscape are within easy reach.
