There’s something undeniably magical about waking up in a $6000-a-night penthouse with a panoramic view of Queenstown’s alpine landscape. That’s exactly what I experienced during a recent stay at The Carlin, a luxury hotel and residential complex in the heart of New Zealand’s adventure capital.

The Penthouse Experience

The penthouse at The Carlin is a masterpiece of design and comfort. From the moment you step onto the expansive deck, which runs the length of the unit, you’re greeted with a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains. This is no ordinary deck — it’s a space designed for entertaining, with enough room to host 20 guests, though the one-bedroom layout ensures that the party can be intimate.

The technology inside is nothing short of cutting-edge. A heated spa with bubble functions and music playback, remote-controlled fireplace, heat pump, and even a marble fire pit on the deck ensure that comfort is never compromised. Even if you turn off all the heating systems, the apartment still remains warm — a testament to the thoughtful design.

Details That Matter

Even the smallest details reflect the hotel’s commitment to luxury. The massive ensuite features heated tiles and a heated toilet seat with bidet functions. For those who prefer a more traditional touch, there’s also a second powder room. The freestanding bathtub even has a pillow for resting after a day of adventure, while the bedroom offers a plush super king bed and fluffy robes with the iconic teal Carlin emblem.

Dining and Entertainment

Guests are treated to a complimentary cocktail during happy hour and a selection of mouth-watering tapas, including braised lamb shoulder croquettes, fresh tuna tartare, and overnight-cooked beef ribs. The residents’ lounge is a highlight, offering a cooked breakfast for those arriving from afar.

More Than Just a Stay

The Carlin’s concierge service is unparalleled. They can arrange everything from a massage on your deck to a pre-arrival grocery shop or bespoke tours. Other amenities include a gym, electric bikes, clothing and equipment storage, and laundry services.

Exploring Queenstown

Queenstown is a year-round destination, and even if you’re not a skier, the area offers countless adventures. A short walk from The Carlin leads to the city’s vibrant bars and restaurants, including the historic Eichardt’s Bar and the recently revived Madam Woo. For skiing enthusiasts, Coronet Peak and Cardrona are within easy reach, offering world-class slopes and stunning mountain views.

What Makes This Different?

The Carlin’s unique approach to hospitality is through its fractional ownership model. Unlike traditional timeshares, this model allows buyers to own a piece of the property as an investment, giving them access to rental income and the ability to trade their weeks for stays at other properties around the world — from Marrakesh to Bali.

Getting There

Queenstown is accessible by air with four airlines offering flights to and from the region. The Carlin provides airport transfers, making it easy for guests to arrive and begin their luxury experience.

For more information, visit thecarlinhotel.com.

This article was sponsored by The Carlin.