Oaks Shores

The main highlight here is the location, as the hotel occupies a scenic setting overlooking Lake Wakatipu. The property takes advantage of the gorgeous views via lots of large windows studding its contemporary buildings. Interiors are also modern, with classic decor in a masculine style. Think: black leather armchairs in the lobby, stacked firewood accents, exposed stone, cowhide barstools, and earthy hues, all illuminated by walls of windows that reveal stunning vistas. Due to its spacious apartments that are equipped with full modern kitchens and large living rooms, the hotel attracts mainly families and groups. The beautiful surroundings draw nature lovers and those seeking respite in the outdoors, and there are plenty of nearby hiking and biking trails, skiing, and adventure sports that draw travelers year-round.

The hotel is situated on the shore of Lake Wakatipu, about a four-minute drive to Queenstown's center (the hotel offers a free shuttle bus service). There are a couple of other hotels in the area, while restaurants, bars, shops, and galleries can be found in town. The area is known for adventure sports, including bungee jumping off the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge (23-minute drive) and plenty of skiing options, including Coronet Peak (24-minute drive), the Remarkables (40-minute drive), Cardrona (one-hour drive), and Treble Cone (one- and a half-hour drive). There are lots of walking and hiking trails in the area, including one trail right by the hotel that goes around the lakeshore. The area is also known for its wineries, and nearby vineyards include Amisfield Winery, Gibbston Valley, and Peregrine, all within an approximate 20- to 25-minute drive. The airport is about a 14-minute drive from the hotel, or 18 minutes via bus. 

The hotel offers guest rooms, as well as one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments and four-bedroom penthouses. All feature pleasant decor in coffee and cream hues, with chocolate-colored padded headboards paired with beige and brown accent pillows and throws topping white bed linens. Framed prints add a nice touch to the walls. Hotel rooms offer seating around round tables, plus electric kettles, mini-fridges, toasters, and dishware and utensils. Apartments have full kitchens with stoves, ovens, microwaves, toasters, refrigerators, dishwashers, tea/coffee facilities, and cooking-ware, as well as spacious living rooms with sofas. The real highlights are the views -- though not all units overlook the lake. All rooms feature large windows that fill the spaces with natural light. Other standard amenities include 50-inch flat-screen TVs, underfloor heating, and free Wi-Fi -- but it's limited to 30 minutes per day. Many units also have gas fireplaces, private balconies or large terraces, and laundry machines. Sleek, cream-tiled bathrooms have shower/tub combos or walk-in showers. Toiletries and hairdryers are provided.

The on-site Shores Restaurant and bar serves breakfast and dinner in an elegant space with gorgeous views over the lake and mountains, plus it offers a kids' menu. Meals can be booked as part of a package, but do cost extra. The fitness room is small and equipped with only a handful of machines, and there's a sauna on-site. Wi-Fi garners lots of complaints from guests, as free internet is limited to 30 minutes per day and guests report slow speeds. Additional time can be purchased, but is pricey. Other amenities include an outdoor barbecue area, laundry services, and on-site parking.