Classic Luxury in Queenstown
Queenstown is the Southern Hemisphere’s premier four-season lake and alpine resort destination, surrounded by majestic mountains and nestled on the shores of crystal clear Lake Wakatipu. For discerning travelers, the saying goes that ‘Eichardt’s will always mean Queenstown and Queenstown will always mean Eichardt’s’. The most awarded private hotel in the country. Eichardt’s rich history began in the mid-1850’s when Queenstown found itself amidst a global gold rush.
Queenstown Strikes Gold
Eichardt’s was born as a result of the rich vein of gold, which drew many prospectors, opportunists and downright optimists from around the globe to the shores of Lake Wakatipu. The quest for pastoral land brought William Gilbert Rees to these shores in 1859 when he built a homestead on the lakefront and erected a woolshed on the site now occupied by Eichardt’s Hotel. When gold was discovered in the nearby Shotover River, Rees found himself at the center of a gold rush – his homestead declared an official goldfield and the main business area developed around the station. The entrepreneurial Rees quickly turned to the hotel keeping business; the woolshed was given a wooden façade and turned into the very beginning of what Eichardt’s is today.
A Virtuoso Property
There would be few luxury hotels in the world that could rival the spectacular setting of Eichardt’s. The understated elegance of the hotel’s interior opens up to reveal the breathtaking panorama of the surrounding mountain ranges. The crisp mountain air and alpine surroundings stir the appetite for both adventure and fine cuisine. Fortuitously situated in the very heart of Queenstown, guests have unlimited access to an international destination for outdoor enthusiasts who seek once in a lifetime experiences within easy reach of sophisticated comforts.
Three Lake View Suites feature glorious views over Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown Bay. Appointed with a super-king bed with platinum linen and a gorgeous Opossum fur throw, Eichardt’s signature turn-down service includes handmade chocolates that arrive within the comfort of your suite every evening. The lounge area features a large fireplace and stylish furnishings along with a writing desk, large dressing room, generous bath and double vanity as well as heated mirrors and floors to take the chill out of cool Queenstown nights.
Located just a few steps from the hotel, four Lakefront Apartments comprise two-bedroom suites offering flexible and luxurious accommodation, each with stunning lake and mountain views. The interior design was masterminded by world-renowned New Zealander Virginia Fisher. Perfect for larger parties, families, professionals and longer staying guests, the split-level suites are interconnected and can be opened to become a large single accommodation space. The Eichardt’s Residence is located just a short walk from the hotel and is set over three levels with glorious views over Queenstown Bay over to Queenstown Gardens and the Remarkables mountain range. Hosting three large bedrooms each with split king beds, The Residence is designed with space and luxurious comfort in mind and is ideal for small groups, colleagues, and families with configurations tailored to meet your needs. Decorated in the style of Eichardt’s, the property boasts a gorgeous European kitchen with Nespresso machine and everything you can imagine to create culinary delights, or if you wish to relax – ask the concierge to organize a chef to cook a private dinner or cater for a function. Located on the top floor, the master suite is complemented by a gas fireplace and floor to ceiling windows, which open out onto a private balcony with superb views. Large balconies also extend from the lower floor suite and main living area. Entertainment in The Residence is state-of-the-art with two 3D LED televisions and an LCD television in each bedroom. There is also SKY digital throughout the property.
Queenstown Icon
Awarded ‘Top 10 Bar in the World with a View’ by the Times of London, UK, Eichardt’s renowned bar, with its comfortable sofas, cozy fireplace and gracious service, provides a welcoming and stylish environment for sampling mouth-watering creations and timeless cocktails. Eichardt’s Bar is a Queenstown icon and locals’ favorite since 1867, offering a genuine atmosphere, history and ambience unlike anywhere else in the world. A welcoming environment for comfortable interaction between guests of the hotel and some of Queenstown’s most colorful characters, cocktails are created by top New Zealand bartenders who incorporate years of experience and passion into every drink. Eichardt’s attentive bar team is always ready to serve with a welcoming smile, good humor and an utterly professional, knowledgeable manner.
Eichardt’s signature lunch dishes, tapas, and breakfast menus feature fresh and organic produce sourced from the very best local growers. Eichardt’s chefs have built a loyal following for consistent, delicious and ever inspiring dishes. Sit next to the crackling fireplace and enjoy New Zealand Bluff oysters, Salmon & Dill Terrine wrapped in nori seaweed with crostini, Slow Roast Pork Belly with apple and quince compote and Olive Oil Pan Fried Gourmet Potatoes with capers, chili and chives.
No Two Days Are Ever the Same
A stroll away from Eichardt’s, an array of world-class restaurants and unique shopping experiences awaits guests fully sated from days spent exploring, skiing, hiking in unsurpassed world-heritage parks, golfing on internationally acclaimed courses, jet boating, cruising the lake or fly fishing. November marks the dawning of spring, where skiing slowly fades away to blooming flowers and longer days to explore. With an average of 2,000 hours of sunshine a year, very little air pollution and mild evenings, New Zealand’s spring sees buds, blossoms, and other new growth bursts including new born lambs who frolic in the fields just before dusk. The lake and mountain landscape make Queenstown suited to all kinds of adventure, so be sure to book the hotel’s Landrover Discovery to explore Queenstown and Central Otago. Let one of their drivers take you on a journey through the many vineyards in the region. The concierge and guest services team are always on hand to ensure you are able to make the most from your time in Queenstown whether it be the best table at one of the area’s many fabulous restaurants through to a breath taking helicopter experience of a lifetime.
