While Queenstown is famous for its adrenaline-pumping activities and bustling town centre, there is an entirely different, quieter side to this alpine paradise. If you are looking to escape the crowds, here are some of the best hidden gems in Queenstown that mostly only locals know about.
![[ES] 2hr Scenic Milford Sound Flight with Landing - 201](https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-720x480/0b/f7/14/2c.jpg)
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Moke Lake: A Mirror in the Mountains
Just a 20-minute drive from the town centre, Moke Lake is completely hidden from the main highway. The drive itself is an adventure, taking you up a winding, partially unsealed road. Once you arrive, you're greeted by a stunning, horse-shoe shaped lake completely surrounded by mountains.
It is the perfect spot for:
- A peaceful morning paddleboard or kayak session.
- The 2-3 hour loop walk that offers spectacular reflections on a calm day.
- Stargazing on a clear night, far from the light pollution of town.
Bob's Cove Track
Many visitors drive right past Bob's Cove on their way to Glenorchy, but taking the time to stop here is highly rewarding. This short, easy walk takes you through a beautiful canopy of native bush (red beech trees) down to a historic lime kiln and a serene, turquoise cove on Lake Wakatipu. The short climb up to Picnic Point provides a spectacular, crowd-free view of the lake.
Intimate Dining at Sherwood
Tucked away in Goldfield Heights, between Queenstown and Frankton, Sherwood is a boutique hotel with one of the most remarkable restaurants in the region. Their menu is heavily focused on sustainability, with many ingredients sourced directly from their own on-site organic kitchen garden. The relaxed, earthy vibe is a stark contrast to the high-energy restaurants in the town centre.
The Secret Sauna
For ultimate relaxation, book a session at Odin's Sauna or one of the private cedar hot tubs dotted around the region. While the Onsen Hot Pools are famous (and often booked out months in advance), smaller, off-grid sauna experiences offer a more intimate, Scandinavian-style relaxation right on the edge of the lake.
![[ES] AuthenticAs Star Gazing -Nightscape Portrait Photography Tour](https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-720x480/07/9f/d0/f4.jpg)
Skip the Main Ski Fields: Try Ski Touring
If you are visiting in winter and want to avoid the lift lines, consider trying your hand at ski touring or splitboarding. Hiring a guide to take you into the backcountry of the Remarkables or Pisa Range offers untouched powder and absolute silence. It is physically demanding but deeply rewarding.
Final Thoughts
Queenstown's biggest attractions are popular for a reason, but balancing your itinerary with a few of these hidden gems will give you a much more rounded, peaceful experience of the Southern Alps.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a 4WD to get to Moke Lake?
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No, a standard 2WD vehicle can make the trip, but the last section of the road is unsealed gravel. Take it slow, especially in winter when it can be icy.
Is Bob's Cove track suitable for children?
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Yes, it is a very easy, relatively flat track (with one short climb to Picnic Point) that is perfect for families.
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