Queenstown

Queenstown is New Zealand's adventure capital, cradled between the shores of Lake Wakatipu and the jagged peaks of the Remarkables. The setting alone is worth the journey, and it provides the backdrop for an astonishing range of activities. This is the birthplace of the commercial bungee jump, and jet boating, skydiving, and paragliding are all on the menu for thrill-seekers.

There is plenty here for those who prefer to keep their feet closer to the ground. Scenic hikes and lakeside trails, the vineyards of the Central Otago wine region, and the historic gold-rush village of Arrowtown fill relaxed days, while the fjords of Milford Sound lie within reach of a long day trip. After the adventure, a compact and buzzing town centre offers plenty of places to refuel.

Seasons are reversed from the Northern Hemisphere. Winter, from June to August, transforms the region into a ski destination, while the long days of summer, from December to February, are prime for hiking, biking, and time on the water.