I’m almost loathe to write this because I want Astride’s River Gorge Apartment all to myself the next time I come to Queenstown! My husband and I are in NZ for our 25th wedding anniversary and Astride and Frank’s beautiful studio overlooking the gorge has been the perfect stay. I don’t say this lightly, having stayed at enough Airbnbs across the world to not leave reviews at most.
From the moment we showed up early on our check in day and had Frank welcome us and help us with our bags to the apartment, it was a magical three nights. The apartment is spacious and thoughtfully furnished: dining table outdoors, dining table indoors (romantic candles included), a brilliantly firm king size bed, a kitchenette with a microwave-convection oven, stove, a huge bathroom and furistic shower cubicle, towel warmers and my favorite electrical appliance: a washing machine! A new smart flatscreen TV offering Netflix (just sign in with your own account) was the piece de resistance (for the hubby who was thrilled to continue watching Lost In Space season 2 while I did the washing).
Though attached to Astride and Frank’s main home, the apartment affords great privacy, with its own entrance. And they are very respectful of our space. I did welcome the sight of their beautiful grandchildren in the garden though!
The gorge is where the Shotover jet boat tours happens, which was fine by us as it was fun to watch. But if you’re napping in the afternoon it might get a little noisy.
This spot is perfectly located about 5km from the town centre. If you’re 52 like the both of us, you would appreciate a little more peace and quiet - the heart of Queenstown is very crowded and noisy!
On top of all that, Astride and Frank have an info pack inside the apartment with great recommendations for dining - first time we have taken ALL suggestions (Canyon Food and Brew, Finz Seafood Restaurant, even Patagonia desserts - I recommend the Strawberries and Cream Ice cream!) and Frank also gave us great tips on treks to check out near us, including the magical though very secluded Moke Lake.
The only drawback might be that if you don’t drive it would be harder to get to Astride’s place though there is a bus stop down the road.
So, all in, we give Astride and Frank’s place a rating of 12/10!
We’ll be back, hopefully during a warmer summer!