Known for adventure pursuits and epic views, Queenstown, New Zealand, is a South Island wonder boasting endless avenues for family fun. Perfect for outdoorsy families, Queenstown’s rugged terrain and historic towns offer a blend of vineyards and shops as well as water sports, hiking trails and dramatic scenery.
Begin in the great outdoors visiting the waterfalls and wildlife of Milford Sound. Take a daytrip or spend a night or two camping along the west coast of the South Island where Milford Sound boasts unparalleled natural beauty in every direction.
Trek the Milford Track on a walking tour from Sandfly Point to the Milford Sound Warf. Stop in local village cafes to refuel with expert guides and take in the incredible lay of the land. Be sure to check out Fiordland National Park, hiking through rainforests and alpine trails. Book a river cruise and keep an eye out for penguins and seals, or surround yourself with the idyllic mountainscape while fly-fishing, bird watching and seeking local wildlife.
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Head back to Queenstown for some dinner and shopping in the historic mining town. Take a tour through the Gold Rush settlement and hear about the history of the region. A trip to Queenstown wouldn’t be complete without some outdoor adventure.
Hit the slopes of Coronet Peak and the Remarkables or hike up to Skippers Canyon for an epic view. Skippers is known for bungee jumping and rafting, so be sure to check out local guides and tours for the best way to enjoy the canyon’s endless possibilities.
Between Lake Hayes, Lake Wakatipu, Hollyford Track, Lake Wanaka and Routeburn Track, visitors have their fill of camping, hiking, boating, sightseeing, kayaking and glaciers.
Relax after a day on the water and out on the trails with a glass of wine at one of Queenstown’s world-renowned vineyards. Make a day of it, visiting great wineries in a small group setting with Queenstown Wine Trail Tours or New Zealand Wine Tours, or get active with Around the Basin Bike Tours.
Check in with your hotel concierge for insider tips and suggestions, or head out on your own visiting Peregrine Wines, Chard Farm Vineyard, Coral Pit Vineyard
and Gibbston Valley Winery — just to name a few. Even if traveling with kids under the legal drinking age, each winery offers incredible views and fun for all ages.
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