Queenstown, located in the heart of the South Island of New Zealand, has a rich history when it comes to hotels. From humble beginnings to the luxurious resorts of today, the evolution of hotels in Queenstown has been an interesting one.
The first hotels in Queenstown were simple, wooden structures built to accommodate the influx of gold miners in the 1800s. These early hotels were basic and functional, with little emphasis on luxury or comfort. They served as a place for the miners to rest their heads after a long day of prospecting for gold.
As tourism began to grow in Queenstown, the demand for more comfortable accommodations increased. In the early 1900s, larger, brick-and-mortar hotels began to spring up, offering amenities such as private bathrooms and electricity. These hotels were still relatively simple, but they provided a significant upgrade from the original wooden structures.
In the 1950s and 60s, Queenstown saw a boom in tourism as international travel became more accessible. This led to the construction of larger, more luxurious hotels. These hotels featured amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, and even golf courses. They were designed to attract the more affluent tourist and were a significant step up from the earlier hotels.
The 1980s and 90s saw the rise of the resort hotel in Queenstown, although they did not feature ski slopes. These hotels were designed to be self-contained destinations and featured a wide range of amenities such as spas, restaurants, and other activities to provide guests with everything they needed for a complete vacation experience without ever having to leave the property.
One of the most notable hotels in Queenstown is Eichardt’s Private Hotel. It was the first hotel in Queenstown, built in 1866 as a simple accommodation for the gold miners. It was purchased in 1884 by a local businessman, Mr Eichardt, it has slowly evolved into a luxurious hotel and still bears his name. The hotel has undergone several renovations over the years, and now it’s considered one of the most luxurious hotels in Queenstown. It’s a great example of how the hotels in Queenstown have evolved over time to meet the changing demands and expectations of travelers.
Today, Queenstown is home to a wide range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Many of the hotels have been renovated or rebuilt to keep up with the changing times and the evolving expectations of guests. They now offer amenities such as fitness centers, business centers, and high-speed internet.
In conclusion, the history of hotels in Queenstown is one that has evolved over time in response to changing demands and expectations. From basic accommodation for gold miners to luxurious resorts, hotels in Queenstown have come a long way, and they continue to evolve to meet the needs of today’s travelers.