New Zealand’s adrenaline-filled adventure capital is a must on any journey to the spectacular South Island. Set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu with the Remarkables mountain range as a dramatic backdrop, Queenstown’s year-round alpine buzz is addictive.
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In winter, there’s world-class skiing and snowboarding, which often lasts into spring. Then it’s time to swap your skis or board for a mountain bike or hiking boots. Come summer, there’s the thrill of jet boat rides and amazing walking trails. While come the autumn, red and gold are the colours of choice to go with the crisp, clear days: a great time to relax and enjoy the region’s fine wines and delicious seasonal cuisine. Queenstown is famously the home of bungee jumping but for those less adrenaline-obsessed, the Ziptrek flying fox eco-journey through the treetops above Queenstown is equally exhilarating.
Axur Villas New Zealand
With adventure comes indulgence, and indulge you really must in a room that pays homage to this captivating, awe-inspiring setting. It would be hard to imagine a more perfect view than the one from the nine free-standing villas at Azur. Perched high on a hillside, just five minutes along the lake’s edge from Queenstown’s centre.
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Set in over three acres of native bush, Azur boasts uninterrupted views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding Remarkables mountains. Floor-to-ceiling windows take full advantage of the breathtaking scenery, ensuring your view is as remarkable indoors as it is outside. The main lodge houses the open kitchen and guest lounge where afternoon tea, pre-dinner drinks and canapés are served. Breakfast is when and where you choose: in the lodge or admiring the view from your sundeck. In the evenings, venture out into the vibrancy that is Queenstown’s legendary nightlife (Azur’s staff will drive you to one of the many superb restaurants or will arrange for a meal to be delivered to your villa).
At one end of your villa’s generous 75 square metres, a sumptuous king-size bed soaks up the view, while at the other the open-plan living area including a plasma TV. And just to complete this blissful scene, the free-standing bath is perfectly positioned beside the picture window – where better to lie back and absorb the panorama.
Most people would think that adventure and luxury holidays are two totally different beasts, but at the Azur you will find that they can most definitely be combined for a fantastic holiday.