On the lower slopes of the Ben Lomond mountain, visit Fernhill, a scenic and serene neighborhood just outside central Queenstown. Various cycling and walking trails meander up and down the green hills, providing stunning views of Sunshine Bay. Spend a few hours wandering around the various parks and coastal trails.

Let your kids frolic in the play area of the Fernhill Reserve and set up a picnic on its grassy slope overlooking the bay. Hike along the Sunshine Bay Track and take in the spectacular views of the mountains across the water. You’ll reach Gilly’s Point, a popular viewing platform.

At the southwestern end of the trail is Sunshine Bay Beach. Bring your family to sunbathe on the tiny pebbles and cool off in the shallow water of Lake Wakatipu. Stay at one of the many lodges and resorts with excellent views in the area.

Continue west for the Mt. Crichton Loop Track and pass Twelve Mile Creek. Meander between the red beech trees and snap photos of the vistas of Lake Dispute and Lake Wakatipu. Back toward the city center, view the impressive undulating topography of Fernhill from the Queenstown Gardens and Queenstown Bay Beach across the bay.

In the northern part of the district, take the 3-mile (5-kilometer) Fernhill Road up to Ben Lomond Hill.

Fernhill occupies the southwestern outskirts of Queenstown, in the southwestern part of the South Island of New Zealand. From the center of the city, travel by bus or walk southwest for around 40 minutes to reach this district. On the way, pass intriguing highlights such as Kiwi Birdlife Park, the Real Journeys Visitor Center and the Lookout for Cecil Peak & Double Cone.