Excitement begins with the olden day steamship the Earnslaw. Not likely- crikey!
It begins at the vertical climb on the Skyline Gondola to the bungee viewing platform that overlooks Queenstown where you get a view of the untamed mountainous region below. Next you can venture by helicopter or Parachute off the precarious cliffs of the Remarkables mountain range that forge south like a Trojan steam ship through the Southern Alps.
On the other hand it can be calm. If you are a little whimpish
, old or just want to do the lazy thing you can continue your travel course on the TSS Earnslaw Steamship to Walter Peak High Country Farm across Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown. She has been ferrying people across the lake since 1912.
The reason I say ‘she ’is because the Earnslaw is affectionately known as the "Lady of the Lake" and surprisingly is a coal fired vessel one of the last in the southern hemisphere as I understand it.
There is a feeling of history as you watch the engines working in the open as she is being stoked up with coal to keep her speed across the lake in front of Queenstown.
When you arrive at Walter Peak High Country Farm you can take a guided tour of the farm and the Colonel's homestead. I hear that the farm has been up for sale so this wondrous place may not be here for long. It may be a destination of choice for the environmental sort.
On the way back just enjoy the country sights. Step out to watch the Paragliders coming down at warp speed from the mountain peaks! This will put even the aged and feeble in the mood to look at what else Queenstown has to offer.
Back to the Skyline Gondola that rises steeply from Queenstown. At the top the views are absolutely stunning. You can try the AJ Hackett Ledge Bungee jump and the Luge ride for a little more excitement.
Whether you are the adrenalin junkie or the cautious you can enjoy the banquet at the Skyline Restaurant in Queenstown. However be warned. Be early so you’ll be more likely to get the best seat in the Restaurant with panoramic views over the mountains. It is well worth it.
Queenstown is an absolute must if you visit this wondrous place in the south island of New Zealand.
