Lowther Holidays from NZ$666

This is what you might call an eco-retro motel. We enjoyed the motel vibe and had a great view of the mountains. We also took advantage of the sauna (no charge for those staying at the motel but you need to reserve). The breakfast was also delicious and the restaurant was excellent for dinner. We also appreciated the kitchenette in the room. This motel is just far enough from the city center of Queenstown to be away from the hustle and bustle. I will note that a wedding the night we arrived, with the reception held in the outdoor space adjoining the restaurant (and pretty much across from our room) meant we listened to the wedding singer all evening, but it ended about 9:45. Staff were very helpful when we needed to find a creative parking spot (due to the wedding).

The Spire is a lovely hotel right in the middle of the action in Queenstown. Our experience here really is a story in two parts. First, though, I must say that everyone working at the Spire was incredible and accommodating. They did their best to anticipate and address all of our needs, and were incredibly thoughtful and welcoming the entire stay. Our first two nights were spent in a Spire Suite, which was an upgrade offered to use because we were concerned about the sound in the Laneway Suite we had booked. The Spire Suite was just lush. Gorgeous room, and a little haven we hardly wanted to leave. Unfortunately the Spire Suite wasn’t available for our second two nights, so we opted to pay (a good chunk) for the Deluxe Apartment rather than take a Laneway Suite. This is where the experience changed. Despite the Apartment being (I believe) priced quite a bit higher than a Suite, it wasn’t nearly as nice of an experience. Yes, you have a full kitchen, but you don’t get the space of the Spire Suite. It had one tiny closet and no drawers or shelves to unpack clothing. The bathroom is also a significant downgrade, with a single sink and no tub. There’s no power sockets on one side of the bed (without removing the heater from the wall). The one upside was the partial view of the lake and mountains. But the most challenging part is that the Deluxe Apartment faced the very strip club and bar we were trying to avoid in the first place. I have to imagine that someone from the hotel

Another visit at Rendezvous staff member on check in could have been a bit more welcoming. Meal in restaurant was disappointing, but the staff were very accommodating in resolving issue. Room and facilities excellent as usual, bed very comfortable.

The location is great and the views are excellent BUT this location needs to tell people that there is no elevator. Carrying 2 50lb bags up five floors was not the high point of our trip. Also, internet was interrupted several times a day. We had a clean and comfortable bed but our room was small. Had to put one bag one the kitchen counter and the other across the end table as there was not enough room on the floor.

Great location and well equipment 1 bedroom apartment with laundry. Enjoyable stay.