Blanket Bay is a luxury vacation getaway located at the north end of Lake Wakatipu, 35 minutes from the popular adventure destination of Queenstown, New Zealand. This luxury lodge gets our vote for one of the best adventure vacation spots in the world.
Why Go
Go for a picture perfect setting and a huge selection of outdoor activities.
During the New Zealand winter (June, July and August), the luxury resort can arrange heli-skiing designed to suit any level of expertise. Fly-fishing enthusiasts can take a helicopter to otherwise inaccessible nearby rivers and streams. Whatever activity you choose, the comfortable Blanket Bay lodge is a great spot to return to at the end of the day. Relax your sore muscles in the steam room or get a massage at the spa. Finally, finish off the perfect day with a tasty dinner and a bottle of New Zealand's finest wine.
Hotel Rooms & Food
All of the resort rooms are comfortable and offer spectacular views. The five lakeside rooms have a balcony or terrace overlooking the lake and the mountains. The three 700 square foot luxury suites feature large private balconies, fireplaces, walk-in closets and luxurious bathrooms with steam showers. There are also four chalet suites located near the main lodge.
Meals are served in two dining rooms with a stone fireplace and lake views. For a more intimate dining experience, dine in the secluded wine room on your adventure vacation. Blanket Bay offers a la carte menu that changes daily and incorporates organic New Zealand ingredients. The wine list features local New Zealand wines, including award winning Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays, Sauvignon Blancs and Rieslings.
Location - Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown, located on the other end of Lake Wakatipu, has also been called the adventure capital of the world. This makes Blanket Bay an ideal starting point for all of the activities the area has to offer.
Things to Do Nearby
Outdoor adventures include hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, canoeing, rafting and scenic helicopter flights. Scenic day hikes include the Rees Valley or the Hollyford track. Longer hikes can be arranged into the Fiordland National Park. In the winter, flexible heli-skiing arrangements by Blanket Bay can accommodate skiers and snowboarders of all ability levels.
Lake fishing is available year-round, while the river fishing season runs from November through May. Blanket Bay resident guides can tailor a fishing adventure to the guest's level of expertise as well as provide fishing equipment. Guests can also go heli-fishing and get transported to otherwise inaccessible wilderness rivers and streams.
Best Time to Go & Getting There
Best time to go depends on your interests. Summer months in New Zealand (December to February) offer the widest selection of outdoor activities. River fishing season is November through May. Heli-skiing is available during winter months on the Southern Hemisphere (June, July and August).
Approximate flight time from Sydney, Australia to Queenstown is 3 hrs 20 minutes. Blanket Bay is 50 minutes by car from Queenstown. Guests can arrange a chauffeur driven car or a helicopter pickup at the airport.
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The Facts
Rates start at NZ$775 per person. The rate includes accommodations, use of sports equipment and facilities, breakfast, pre-dinner cocktails, dinner and after-dinner house ports, cognacs and liqueurs.
