A slice of New Zealand/Aotearoa paradise, nestled into the heart of the adventure capital of the country, Queenstown/Tāhuna offers the perfect combination of exciting activities and calming relaxation. Nestled into the shores of the South Island/Te Waipounamu’s Lake Wakatipu, the encompassing landscape of mountain ranges are calling your name. With a Hertz branch located next to the airport in Frankton, it’s never been easier to pick up your rental car and begin the adventure of a lifetime.
A Picturesque Town, Filled With Hidden Gems
There’s no better place to start your getaway in Queenstown than the Remarkables Park Town Centre. Situated in the heart of the suburb of Frankton, right by the airport, you’ll discover a shopping strip that provides you with all the delights to get your travels off on the right foot.
Cruise through the strip and browse the plethora of retail stores, cafes, restaurants and bars that make up this town centre. To make the most of your stop here, make sure to sit down for a delicious meal at The Shelter, a gastro pub that is sure to stun with sweeping views of The Remarkable mountains as they reach up and all around you.
If you’re visiting Frankton in the summer months, make sure to pop by the Remarkables’ Farmers Market. Filled with fresh produce, unique gifts, delicious snacks, as well as live music, this makes for the perfect place to meander around as you take in the beautiful surroundings of the mountain ranges.
You’ve seen the view from far below, now’s your chance to witness this stunning landscape up high. Only a fifteen-minute drive from Frankton, park your car in central Queenstown, grab your camera, and strap into Queenstown’s Skyline Gondola. The open-air chairlift delivers jaw-dropping panoramas of the mountain ranges that surround you, and the journey in the gondola is only half the thrill. Once at the top, you’ll be met with breathtaking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu, as well as the spectacular Market Kitchen Cafe, so you can enjoy the scenery with a refreshment in hand.
Also in central Queenstown, you’ll find the beautiful Queenstown Gardens. The perfect place to sit down and relax by the tranquil lake, or stroll along the walking trail through the rose garden, this picturesque place should be an unmissable stop on your itinerary.
Sit Back and Relax With a World-Class Glass of Wine
The only thing better than enjoying an incredible view of the postcard-perfect landscapes of Queenstown is enjoying it with a great meal and a terrific glass of wine.
Amisfield Bistro and Cellar Door delivers both an excellent dining experience and incredible views of the mountains that surround you and is located just a ten-minute drive from Frankton central, sitting by the shores of Lake Hayes. The organic, single estate vineyard is home to a selection of world-class wines that are characterised by nuanced flavours that are distinctive to the Queenstown region. Enjoy a meal at their restaurant and a glass of wine at their cellar door and remember to always have a designated driver.
Just a five minute drive from Frankton, The Boat Shed Cafe and Bistro is another eatery that is sure to get your tastebuds thriving. The seasonal menu utilises fresh local produce and is open for breakfast and brunch, making for the perfect place to stop for a barista-made coffee or blueberry French toast after a stroll along the Frankton Marina.
For more activities that you can sink into, make sure to check out the laid back underside to this adventure capital. Tucked into the mountains, the Onsen Hot Pools Queenstown makes for the perfect day of relaxation as you soak in the cedar hot tubs and look out over the sweeping hills and soaring skies of the spectacular landscape around you.
If you’re after even more ways to chill out and take it slow, consider a spa day at Hilton Queenstown. eforea spa offers everything to calm your mind and heal your body, from traditional massages and body scrubs to saunas and hot tubs.
The gateway to an exciting Kiwi adventure, Queenstown is much more than meets the eye. From Frankton, it’s easy to discover a range of activities in your Hertz rental car that are sure to make your stay in Queenstown one of delight and relaxation.
