Here's our "most relaxing things to do in Queenstown"

Queenstown is not just New Zealand's "Adventure Capital". It's also a place where you can soothe your soul, recharge your batteries, and just chill, taking in some stunning scenery, clear alpine air, and an almost endless variety of things to see and do. So if your coming here for that special escape, you've probably asked yourself "what are the most relaxing things to do in Queenstown".

Our tips for the most relaxing things to do in Queenstown

It's difficult to narrow the list down to just a few activities, but here we go.

Here, in no particular order, are our "most relaxing things to do in Queenstown". We hope you enjoy our suggestions.

1. Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the historic TSS Earnslaw

The clear still waters of Lake Wakatipu have been home to the historic TSS ("twin screw steamer") Earnslaw since 1912. Believed to be the only remaining coal powered passenger vessel in the Southern Hemisphere, a journey on the TSS Earnslaw is one of the most relaxing ways to enjoy Queenstown. The Remarkables tower some 2,000 metres above the shoreline, and in the cooler months are capped with snow, making for some unforgettable photo opportunities.

The TSS Earnslaw offers a variety of cruises including cruise only, cruise and delicious BBQ lunch or dinner at Walter Peak farm, or a cruise and  Walter Peak farm tour (the kids love this one).

The TSS Earnslaw is easily accessible from Queenstown wharf in the centre of town.

2. Have a drink (or several) on Perky's Floating Bar

This one will probably surprise some of you, but we always make time to vist Perky's Floating Bar.

Marketed as New Zealand's only floating bar, Perky's is centrally located at the wharf in downtown Queenstown. The boat is permanently moored, and it's an enchanting spot to spend an afternoon or evening with family or friends. The views, like most spots in Queenstown, are incredible.

There's a choice of inside or outdoor seating (undercover and heated in the cooler months), and a great range of coctails, local beer and wines, and spirits.

One of the unique things about Perky's is that they encourage you to bring your food onboard with you. With such a wide choice of food outlets close by, it's sometimes a case of what will we try tonight? Fish and Chips are a delicious choice.

It's the perfect place to meet new friends, take in the views, and chill. We love it.

3. Relax amongst the vines on a winery tour

Queenstown's fast growing reputation as a leading producer of Pinot Noir is a great thing for visitors, just like you.

There's more than 70 wineries within a 20 minute drive of town, and dozens more within an hour's drive, so a Queenstown winery tour is an easily accessible way to pass the day.

Fine dining, cheese platters, and woodfired pizzas are a few of the dining options available, and whichever you choose, you will be surrounded by some of the most majestic scenery anywhere in the world.

Of course we always recommend leaving the car at home and taking advantage of tours that include a pick up/drop off service.

Here's a few of the most popular tours:

4. Enjoy amazing views at the Skyline complex

This is high on our list of the most relaxing things to do in Queenstown.

Accessed from 53 Brecon Street in the centre of town, the Skyline complex offers so much to delight visitors of all ages, and it's one of those "must do" Queenstown activities.

The gondola ride takes you from the Brecon Street to the top of Bob's Peak, around 450 metres above town. The views here are simply jaw dropping, and we've spent many an hour just relaxing on the observation decks, having a snack at the cafe or a meal at Stratosfare Restaurant (be sure to book a window front table for the best views, particularly around sunset).

The Skyline complex also houses a gift shop, the addictive luge ride, and some wonderful star gazing tours at night. Several other businesses operate from the Skyline complex such as AJ Hackett (bungy), Ziptrek Ecotours, and G-Force Paragliding.

From the town centre it's about a ten minute walk to the ticket office, although it's up quite a steep hill, so we always park in the car park. Unfortunately it's not free.

You can find out more about the Skyline here.

5. Wander through our local markets

If your after some local arts and crafts, or perhaps want to sample some local produce, our markets are just the place.

Queenstown has two different markets, the Queenstown Markets, held every Saturday in the town centre near Steamer Wharf (and on Fridays in the warmer months), and the Remarkables Market, at 23 Hawthorne Drive Frankton (out towards the airport), held on Saturdays during the warmer months from September to April.

Filled with stalls featuring local creations, live music, and wonderful food, our markets are a fantastic way to pass a few hours. Who knows, you may even find that special keepsake to remind you of Queenstown.

6. Feel the serenity at Onsen Hot Pools

Around 10 minutes from town at Arthur's Point, the Onsen Hot Pools are the perfect remedy for those aches and pains after a hard day exploring.

Perched above the Shotover River, the location is awe-inspiring, and the views from the hot pools add to the serenity of this special spot.

In addition to the 14 hot tubs, there's a selection of wellness treatments including massages, scrubs and facials. Packages are available that include a drink and snack, and you can also book a shuttle as part of your package.

Highly recommended.

You can learn more on their website here.

7. Follow the lake to Glenorchy

Glenorchy is a relaxed village perched on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, around one hours drive from Queenstown. The drive there is a highlight, with the lake and mountains your constant companions. Fortunately there are various spots along the way to pull off the road for some special photo opportunities.

At Glenorchy, take the time to visit the famous red shed and wharf. These must some of New Zealand's most photographed attractions. If you walk out onto the wharf, see if you can spot the huge eels and trout in the clear waters.

There are various short walks in the area, and the Department of Conservation's website has lots of information available.

A visit to Mrs Woolley's store is also recommended. Filled with local arts, crafts and goods, they also have some VERY delicious food offerings.

Famous for it's ties with the Lord of the Rings, the area never fails to impress, and there are specialist LOTR tours available (we've included a few below for you to have a look at).

The Dart River Adventures jetboat tours are an absolute "must do". Heading deep into the back country, the feelings of solitude and wonder are something we will never forget.

You can see a range of available tours below.

8. See the sights on a guided Segway tour

What a great way to see the sights! Guided Segway tours are one or two hours in duration, and take you along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through the pretty Queenstown Gardens.

The guides are very knowledgeable and take the time to make sure that you are comfortable with the operation of your Segway. After a while you find yourself zipping along like a pro. A lot of fun.

There's lots of photo opportunities and this is a really relaxing way to explore central Queenstown.

Check out the tour here.

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