Queenstown.

Framed by the dramatic peaks of the Southern Alps and the deep blue waters of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown has earned a global reputation as the world's adventure capital. It is the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping and a premier hub for jet boating, skydiving, and winter sports at Coronet Peak and the Remarkables. Yet beyond the adrenaline-fueled pursuits, the alpine resort town offers a sophisticated, slower-paced appeal. Visitors can ride the Skyline Gondola up Bob’s Peak for panoramic basin views, explore the historic gold-mining streets of nearby Arrowtown, or spend an afternoon sampling world-class Pinot Noir in the Gibbston Valley wine region. With its blend of luxury lakeside lodges, high-end dining, and raw natural beauty, Queenstown functions just as well for a relaxed culinary getaway as it does for an action-packed expedition.