The Remarkables Ski Area
A stunning ski resort in Queenstown offering diverse terrain, breathtaking views, and excellent learning opportunities for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best snow conditions
The Remarkables Ski Area
Best Time
Best snow conditions
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning ski resort in Queenstown offering diverse terrain, breathtaking views, and excellent learning opportunities for all ages.
"Spectacular views and great instructors make The Remarkables a must-visit for skiers and families."
🚗 Drive Smart or Bus It
Snow chains or 4WD needed for the drive, or take the bus for an easier journey. :car:
👨🏫 Top-Notch Instructors
Highly recommended instructors like Luis Miguel and Max for patient, engaging lessons. :teacher:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Alta
On-mountain
A stunning glacial lake accessible via a short, steep hike from the ski area. Perfect for photos!
Varied Ski Slopes
Throughout the resort
From beginner-friendly areas to challenging chutes like 'Escalator', there's terrain for all skill levels.
Family Fun Zone
Left-hand side of the resort
A dedicated area for kids and families, ensuring everyone can enjoy the snow, even non-skiers.
Spectacular Mountain Views
Various viewpoints
Breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and Queenstown.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Mountain Road
Book Lessons in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Smart or Bus It
Snow chains or 4WD needed for the drive, or take the bus for an easier journey. :car:
👨🏫 Top-Notch Instructors
Highly recommended instructors like Luis Miguel and Max for patient, engaging lessons. :teacher:
💰 Fair Food Prices
Food on the mountain is reasonably priced, with hot water available on-site. :moneywithwings:
🥶 Dress Warmly Indoors
While there's outdoor space, it gets very cold. Indoor dining is more comfortable. :snowflake:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Smart or Bus It
Snow chains or 4WD needed for the drive, or take the bus for an easier journey. :car:
👨🏫 Top-Notch Instructors
Highly recommended instructors like Luis Miguel and Max for patient, engaging lessons. :teacher:
💰 Fair Food Prices
Food on the mountain is reasonably priced, with hot water available on-site. :moneywithwings:
🥶 Dress Warmly Indoors
While there's outdoor space, it gets very cold. Indoor dining is more comfortable. :snowflake:
📸 Hike to Lake Alta
A rewarding 30-50 min hike to a beautiful glacial lake with stunning photo ops.
🏂 Beginner Friendly
Great learner areas and instructors make it ideal for first-time skiers and snowboarders.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Remarkables for its beautiful slopes, varied terrain, and excellent instructors who make learning enjoyable. The family-friendly atmosphere and stunning mountain views are major draws. While the drive can be challenging in winter, the bus service and on-site amenities, including reasonably priced food, enhance the overall experience.
"wonderful place to visit in Queenstown. However, the road can be quite challenging during the winter season compared to Coronet Peak, with sudden changes in weather. It is recommended to use snow chains or a 4WD vehicle; alternatively, you can take the bus service from the car park.
Even if you are not a skier, there is a dedicated area for kids and families on the left-hand side, which makes it enjoyable for everyone. Food prices are reasonably fair, and hot water is available on site. There is ample space outside, but it is more comfortable to stay indoors while having a meal, as it can get very cold."
asanka gunarathna
"Beautiful slopes with great variety, also some amazing food at reasonable slopes prices.
Our instructor (Luis Miguel) was absolutely amazing and did great with patience and explaining how to do things in an engaging and understandable way. I can say my skiing improved greatly after being with him. Highly recommend him to teach lessons."
Charlotte Bell
"What a lovely place to ski! Very efficient shuttle system and zero hassle. Big ups to Max (our instructor) who was very passionate about skiing and very skilled at teaching adults, including explaining the Newtonian mechanics of how it all worked! Was able to go from zero to be able to do some green runs after a 3 hour lesson."
Firmin Li
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive your own vehicle, but snow chains or a 4WD are highly recommended during winter due to challenging road conditions. Alternatively, a convenient bus service operates from the Queenstown car park, offering a hassle-free option.
Yes, there is a fee to drive up the mountain, typically around $15 NZD.
The road can be quite challenging, especially in winter, with sudden weather changes. It's a scenic drive, but requires caution.
Renting a car is an option, but ensure it's equipped for snow conditions (snow chains or 4WD). Many visitors opt for the bus service for simplicity.
The drive from Queenstown to The Remarkables Ski Area typically takes about 45 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lift pass prices vary depending on the season and any package deals. It's best to check the official Remarkables website for current pricing and options. Some visitors purchase season passes.
While not always mandatory, booking lift tickets and lessons in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended to secure your spot and potentially get better rates.
The Remarkables often offers various packages and deals, including family passes or group discounts. Check their website for the latest promotions.
Opening hours typically vary by season and day. It's advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Yes, you can rent ski and snowboard equipment directly at the resort. Many visitors also choose to rent in Queenstown before heading up the mountain.
🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience
The Remarkables offers a diverse range of terrain, including beginner-friendly areas, groomed runs, and challenging chutes like 'Escalator' for advanced skiers and snowboarders.
Absolutely! The resort has dedicated learner areas and excellent instructors who are praised for their patience and effectiveness with first-time skiers and snowboarders.
Yes, there's a dedicated kids' and family area on the left-hand side of the resort, making it enjoyable for everyone, even those who don't ski.
The views are spectacular! You'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic mountain landscapes and vistas of Queenstown.
Yes, there are cafes and an on-mountain bar. Food prices are considered reasonably fair, and hot water is available on-site.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire mountain offers stunning backdrops. Lake Alta provides a unique glacial lake setting, and various viewpoints along the slopes offer panoramic mountain vistas.
Yes, the scenic drive up and the accessible areas around the base lodge offer fantastic photo opportunities of the mountains and snow.
Many visitors find the drive and the views alone to be worth the trip, even if they don't ski. The landscape is truly remarkable.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful lighting conditions, with golden hour casting a warm glow on the snow-covered peaks.
The area around Lake Alta is a popular spot for its unique glacial lake scenery. Also, look for elevated points on the slopes for expansive mountain panoramas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏂 Beginners & First-Timers
The instructors are highly praised for their patience and ability to teach effectively, helping you progress from zero to confident on green runs. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The scenic drive up provides constant photo opportunities, and the mountain itself is a stunning subject. Don't miss the hike to Lake Alta, a beautiful glacial lake that offers unique and dramatic shots. Look for elevated points on the slopes for panoramic mountain vistas that capture the grandeur of the Southern Alps. Early mornings and late afternoons can provide magical lighting for your shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Learning to Ski or Snowboard
For those completely new to the sport, the resort's infrastructure is designed to be welcoming. The 'learner area' provides a safe and gentle introduction to sliding on snow. Even young children have been reported to have a great time with accommodating instructors like Kaay.
Beyond formal lessons, simply observing experienced skiers and snowboarders can be inspiring. The resort's layout allows for easy access to different runs, so you can gradually challenge yourself as your skills develop. Remember to dress warmly and in layers, as you'll be spending a lot of time outdoors.
The Scenic Drive and Lake Alta
A highlight accessible to many, regardless of skiing ability, is Lake Alta. This stunning glacial lake is located right on the ski area and is reachable via a relatively short but steep hike. The trek typically takes between 30 to 50 minutes, and the reward is a breathtaking natural wonder.
The lake's serene beauty, nestled amidst the Remarkables mountain range, makes it a prime spot for photography and a moment of quiet appreciation for the natural landscape. When planning your visit to Lake Alta, factor in the hike time and wear appropriate footwear. The views from the lake are spectacular and offer a different perspective of the mountain environment compared to the ski slopes. It's a must-do for anyone visiting The Remarkables, providing a memorable experience beyond just skiing.
On-Mountain Amenities and Dining
While there is ample outdoor space to take in the views, it can get very cold, especially during winter. Many visitors find it more comfortable to enjoy their meals indoors, away from the biting wind. The base lodge provides a warm and sheltered environment for dining and taking breaks between runs.
Beyond dining, the resort offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a dedicated kids' area, making it a great destination for families. The efficient shuttle system and overall hassle-free experience are frequently mentioned by visitors, contributing to a positive overall impression of the resort's facilities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit