Ever imagined soaking in a hot bath on the side of a mountain? Well you can do just that on New Zealand’s South Island at Onsen Hot Pools in Queenstown. These cedarwood hot tubs perched on a hill overlooking the magnificent Shotover Canyon are a world away from reality. Slip into deliciously hot water and feel the stress of the day ease away. You’ll be forgetting the real world in no time.
Whether you’re on a weekend break or travelling the South Island in a campervan, Onsen Hot Pools are worth every penny (and believe me, the irony of using coin operated showers at campsites for weeks and then splurging $75 on what is essentially a large bath is not lost on me…but I have no regrets!). Our visit to Onsen was actually a gift from me to my partner Alex to thank him for teaching me to drive: believe me – learning to drive for the first time in a manual Mazda Bongo on South Island roads is a stressful experience for everyone involved! But the Onsen experience was the perfect antidote!
Tell me where!
The Onsen Hot Pools are situated on Arthur’s Point Road, a short drive north of Queenstown by the Shotover River. You can sometimes spot the jet boats as you soak looking out over the gorge. A free shuttlebus service is available on request. Make sure to arrive 15 minutes before your booked time to check in.
How do I book?
You can either book direct on the Onsen website or try and snag yourself a last minute deal via bookme.nz. We chose the Outdoor Onsen but you can also opt for the Original Onsen which is an indoors but still has epic views (the retractable roof means you still feel like you’re outdoors). They also offer spa treatments for anyone fancying an extra bit of luxury.
What’s included?
The Onsen Hot Pools have luxurious changing rooms with lockers and hairdryers, and you’ll be given towels so no need to bring your own. Plus you’ll get a complimentary drink and snack to enjoy in the pool – I opted for a glass of bubbles!
What time of day should I visit?
The pools are an amazing experience at any time of day. Daytime views are spectacular with a sweeping vista of the Shotover River gorge. However you can also book late slots and soak under the night sky – the stars in New Zealand are incredibly bright! Top tip: book an evening slot and watch the sunset from your hot tub!
Is this just a summer thing?
The Onsen Hot Pools can be enjoyed at any time of year – I’m desperate to go back during winter and have a soak while looking out over snow-covered mountains! The perfect end to a day’s skiing.
Are the pools private?
Yes, you’ll book a 60 minute slot and have the hot tub to yourself during that time for an hour of pure uninterrupted bliss!
Further information can be found on the Onsen website here.
Read my other posts about New Zealand here.
[…] and snag great prices on activities in New Zealand. Examples include jet boating, scenic flights, Onsen Hot Pools and Hobbiton. It’s used by a number of large tour operators to sell last-minute tickets. You […]