Tucked at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, about a 45-minute drive from Queenstown, Glenorchy feels like stepping into a postcard. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear water, it’s a peaceful little town that’s all about raw, untouched beauty. The drive itself — winding through the mountains — is one of the most scenic routes in New Zealand. Once there, you can stroll along the lakefront, take a jet boat ride on the Dart River, or hike one of the nearby trails like the Routeburn Track.

Travel Tip: Start early — the road gets busy later in the day, and morning light makes the views along Lake Wakatipu even more breathtaking.