The definition of natural beauty, Queenstown is postcard-perfect in every way. From the cinematic descent of the plane, as it glides slowly giving travelers a close glimpse of the terrain as it touches down to the sweeping views of the blue lake, the saying “first impressions lasts” rings true at this magnificent destination. There’s a good reason this New Zealand spot is always included on top travel rankings around the world. Why else would the Lord of The Rings Trilogy find it a worthy film location? Queenstown exudes a soothing escape from the city life with unbelievable sights and exquisite serenity while also evoking adventure and excitement.
Hotel St Moritz Queenstown – MGallery by Sofitel is a few minutes drive from the airport. The location is strategic on a narrow street and as you step into the elegant entrance, it hits you that the experience is bound to be unforgettable. From the calm colors, soft lighting to the stylish crowd, the hotel gives off a real feel of what you’d expect from one of Queenstown’s top hotels. The decor and vibe reveal the essence of relaxed sophistication. The staff is of the same caliber–polite, helpful and incredibly good at what they do. From first being greeted at the door to our final goodbyes, we felt well and truly taken care of.
The lobby exudes an oasis of calm as we sipped our welcome drinks before checking in to our rooms. We were offered advice on the weather, itinerary options and assistance on activities during our stay. With excellent service that is polite and personal without being stuffy and formal, no request is too troublesome, one only needs to ask. Hotel St Moritz features Lombardi Restaurant, Bar and Library, a gymnasium, and a hot tub garden. With unparalleled views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain ranges, it is positioned as the perfect accommodation for sightseeing and adventure. The hotel is, in fact, a short drive to all four of Queenstown’s ski fields and many popular attractions.
Suite Life
We perched ourselves on the balcony of our one bedroom Alpine suite lake view room. It is impossible not to marvel at the stunning scenery of nature and snap a photo for our Instagram feed. The space ripples with muted colors, a splash of creams, browns and sea blues meshed with elegance and modern essentials. There are lots of special touches that will sure to please you– a king-sized bed, a large lounge and dining area, wet bar, spacious en-suite with large glass walk-in shower and a separate bath featuring Molten Brown toiletries. The sofa converts into a day bed if you want to linger for a moment longer in the living room. After a stroll down the Esplanade for spectacular waterfront views or a visit to the town center for wine, dining or shopping, enjoy a glorious bath and rest in a night of comfortable sleep in this stylish suite.
Top tip: A must-try when at Hotel St Moritz is the Molton Brown Rosa Absolute Milk Bath experience. Relieve those tired muscles and jet lag with this exquisite bath. The New Zealand milk-based concoction is made heavenly by the scent of roses that will surely leave your skin smooth and your mood bright. The bespoke bath comes with rose petals and a glass of Central Otago Pinot Noir. What a perfect way to relax on your holiday!
Breakfast in Lombardi
Divine Dining
When it comes to sampling the finest food in town, you don’t need to even leave the hotel. Lombardi is one of the most desired locations for a lovely meal and takes center stage on the ground floor. The restaurant serves up incredible food, and similarly incredible views. It also boasts a carefully crafted wine list that focuses on the famous Pinot Noir variety renowned in the Central Otago Region. Quite simply put, dining here is absolutely memorable. Low background music is relaxing while the menu manages to stay elegant without being too confusing for one to know what you’re eating. We highly recommend the Te Mana lamb rack and Southland beef fillet! Portion-wise, the restaurant has it spot on. There’s just enough room to squeeze in all two or three courses without feeling guilty about calories. This is also the fabulous setting of the daily breakfast at the hotel. The morning buffet presents heartwarming and healthy food options for everyone ensuring all guests are fuelled up for a wonderful day out and about in Queenstown.
Things to do
- The TSS Earnslaw experience is an iconic New Zealand attraction not to be missed as it takes you across the Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm to see animals in the farmyard and the workings of a real Kiwi sheep station.
- See the Skippers Canyon in a unique guided tour followed by a thrilling jet boat ride through the narrowest canyons on the Shotover River. This boat ride allows you to see the historic gold mining relics, as well as the Lord of The Rings movie locations.
- See a real live kiwi at the Kiwi Birdlife Park that’s home to over 20 species of native wildlife. There’s an amazing show providing fun facts and entertainment if you have kids in tow.
- Make a visit to Arrowtown and explore the Lakes District Museum for a fun day. The museum has a cool code-cracking treasure hunt and you can even hire a pan to actually check the Arrow River for gold just like the early miners.
Book with Accor Hotels to get the best rates for your next holiday or travel plans! For more details, visit www.queenstownnz.co.nz.
Hotel St Moritz Queenstown – MGallery by Sofitel 10/18 Brunswick St, Queenstown, New Zealand, +643 442 4990, www.accorhotels.com
Photographs courtesy of Accor Hotels
