Scenic Suites Queenstown – Hotel Review

Perched at the very foot of Queenstown Hill, overlooking the town centre, Scenic Suites are an ideal option for families. Two adjacent wings of rooms jut out towards the lake, ensuring most offer at least a glimpse of the turquoise waters of Lake Wakatipu or the pine-lined slopes to the west of the town. The rooms have plenty of space to unwind – the one-bedroom suites more so thanks to a separate living and dining area – or to store bulky ski gear. Travellers with young children will appreciate the large bathrooms, full kitchen and washing facilities that make staying in a desirable option. The on-site restaurant is compact, offering a menu of bistro favourites that can also be ordered directly to your room, and the lobby bar offers brew and pinots throughout the day and evening.

The location 

Scenic Suites is centrally located on the main road into town, around a five-minute walk from the lakefront. The airport is a 10-minute drive.

The rooms

The two room types, superior double and one-bedroom suites, are paired behind a secure door and can be booked separately or together. The former features two double beds, an ensuite, kitchenette and balcony, while the latter has a full kitchen (including stovetop and dishwasher) as well as washing machine and dryer, and a separate living and dining area. When booked together the two spaces form apartment-style accommodation suitable for families (including a large bathroom with bathtub). Book one of the 10 simple but pleasantly furnished lakeview rooms (two of which have been recently refurbished; there are plans to overhaul the entire hotel in the next year) in which a vista of the turquoise lake and the gondola tracking up the hill is reason enough to stay in.

Food and drink 

The Hillside Brasserie adjacent to the lobby is open for breakfast and dinner, serving a simple but satisfying array of dishes. Breakfast is buffet style, with continental offerings as well as a full range of hot options including hash browns and eggs. Dinner is bistro-style, with favourites including schnitzel, beef burgers and Caesar salads, with a similar but shorter menu available in the Lobby Bar from 11am for lunch and snacks. Room service is also available 24 hours.

For business travellers

Two Mac computers are situated on the mezzanine level, above the lobby, and wi-fi is available throughout the hotel.

The fab factor

The five pillows on the pillow menu are available to purchase, should you want to take a great night’s sleep home.

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