Autumn Time in Queenstown...Just Perfect

Regular winter-time visitors to Queenstown are captivated by their first autumn (March-May) visit. This is their story.

Queenstown was a firm family favourite for our winter family ski holidays.   We had such a lot of fun, the children became expert snowboarders and even our own skiing improved. 

The children have left home and so it was the perfect time to explore Queenstown  at another time of the year. Friends had been telling us that Queenstown in autumn was equally fantastic, but a totally difference experience, and that we had been missing out. 

It was true. 

As we arrived we were completely captivated by the autumn scenery.  There was just a scattering of light snow on the mountain tops to contrast with the rich, ruby-red colours and golden leaves on the trees.  

Travelling as a couple, we chose to stay in more intimate accommodation, with the convenience of being able to stroll into the heart of Queenstown to enjoy the fantastic dining and bar options.  Browns Boutique Hotel  ticked all those boxes and more.    The hotel is very close to town  and has a handy walkway which allowed us to wander into town with ease. 

Our hosts, Gillian and Donald, were simply delightful.  Nothing was too much trouble, their advice on attractions and activities  was spot on and their tasty breakfasts set us up for busy days ahead.

One of the delights of our spacious room was the Juliet balcony which overlooked Queenstown and the spectacular Remarkables mountain range beyond.  We both spent a few quiet times on the balcony reading and simply soaking up the view.   It was magical.

All the buzz about ‘Central Otago pinot noir’ wines motivated us to visit some nearby wineries.  Gillian arranged a tour  for us which visited several wineries around both Queenstown and the Cromwell areas.   We learned so much from our driver and the hosts at the vineyards, plus we picked up a few nice bottles to savour at home.

We can’t believe why we waited so long to visit Queenstown in the autumn.  We had a fantastic time, loved Browns Boutique hotel and were truly captivated by the autumn scenery. I don’t think I’ve taken so many pictures on one holiday!  You just can’t miss it.
 

Autumn Facts and Figures
Months of March, April and May
Typical Temperature Range: 12 -25 Celsius
Coming Events Autumn 2012:
• NZ PGA Pro-Am Championship, 29 March -1 April 2012
• Queenstown Lakes NZ House and Garden Tour 2012, 24 March 2012
• Gibbston Harvest Festival 2012, 17 March 2012
• Queenstown Bike Festival, 31 March -9 April 2012
• Arrowtown Autumn Festival 2012, 20-29 April 2012

For more details on events click here.