The Spire Hotel

Though you’d never know it from the mass media, there’s a lot more to New Zealand than luxury lodges, adventure sports and Lord of the Rings tours. Queenstown, for example, may be known for its alpine setting, a mecca for skiers and snowboarders, but it’s a cosmopolitan city as well, as amply demonstrated by the urbane Spire hotel.

Here there’s no trace of ski-lodge anti-chic, but rather a dramatic palette of reds, greys and black, and modern designer furnishings by the likes of Eames and Philippe Starck. The ten oversized rooms come with private balconies, deep tubs, heated floors and gas fireplaces, and a pillow menu — yes, it’s that kind of place. Thankfully, it’s also got that kind of service; the youthful staff apparently hasn’t gotten the memo that boutique service is supposed to be sullen and sniffy.

All this does come at a price, but the Spire is the only way to do Queenstown in such high style. It’s not just for upmarket ski bums either; Lake Wakatipu is a popular summertime destination, and the Spire even comes with meeting facilities to cater to those lucky enough to be sent here on business. And with a restaurant by chef Rex Morgan (not to be confused with the American comic-strip doctor of the same name) the Spire is a focal point for Queenstown’s nightlife as well.

How to get there:
The Spire Hotel is approximately a 15 minute drive from Queenstown International Airport.