Hop on Hop off Wine Tour Queenstown Ultimate Luxury

A Complete Look at the Hop on Hop off Wine Tour Queenstown Ultimate Luxury

If you’re headed to Queenstown and want a taste of the region’s finest wines, craft beers, and mountain scenery—all in one well-organized day—this Ultimate Luxury Hop on Hop off Wine Tour might be just what you need. For $156.53 per person, this 7-hour journey takes you from Queenstown’s town center through a series of carefully curated stops, covering iconic wineries, historic breweries, and picturesque mountain passes. With a flexible itinerary, comfortable transportation, and options for personalized experiences, it’s a solid choice for those who want to explore with ease and a touch of style.

What we really like about this tour is its balance of guided expertise and personal choice. You’ll get a knowledgeable guide who makes sure you hit all the highlights, but the real appeal is the chance to choose your own adventure—whether that’s relaxing at a historic hotel, sampling spirits at a distillery, or enjoying a cheese platter amid beautiful gardens. Plus, the scenic routes along Crown Range and visits to Queenstown’s charming towns add a layer of authentic New Zealand charm that’s hard to beat.

One potential drawback? The extensive list of stops means the schedule can be a little tight, especially if you want to linger at each place. If you prefer a leisurely pace or want to spend hours at one vineyard, this might feel rushed. Still, for most travelers, the value of seeing multiple highlights in one day outweighs the quick stops.

This tour suits wine lovers, curious explorers, and anyone wanting a comprehensive taste of Queenstown’s food, drink, and scenery—without the hassle of planning each stop themselves. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate guided experiences with some flexibility, and don’t mind a busy day of sightseeing.

Key Points

• Flexible options at Gibbston Valley allow you to choose between wine, spirits, or a relaxing hotel visit.
• Scenic driving over Crown Range provides stunning photo opportunities and mountain vistas.
• Variety of stops from wineries and breweries to historic pubs and art-filled cellar doors.
• Convenient pickup from any Queenstown hotel simplifies logistics.
• Value for money considering the number of stops, tastings, and scenic drives packed into 7 hours.
• Weather-dependent nature of the experience means it could be canceled or altered in bad weather.

Exploring the Queenstown Ultimate Luxury Hop on Hop off Wine Tour in Detail

Starting Point and Overall Experience

The day begins at 10:00am with pickup from your Queenstown accommodation—an aspect we appreciated for its convenience. The tour operates on a mobile ticket system, and most travelers find the process straightforward, especially if your hotel is in the town center. The ride itself is comfortable, with a well-organized itinerary that promises to showcase Queenstown’s best wine regions, scenic mountain passes, and local attractions.

The pricing—about $156.53 per person—may seem high at first glance, but when you consider the extensive list of stops, tastings, and the guided nature of the tour, it offers good value. It’s more than just a bus ride; it’s a curated experience designed for those who want to sample the region without the stress of driving or the expense of multiple separate tours.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour hits 25 stops, starting from Queenstown, moving through local highlights, and ending back in town. Here’s what makes each part unique:

Queenstown and Surroundings

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, a real plus for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of public transport or figuring out where to meet. Early on, you’ll pass by landmarks like the AJ Hackett Bungy Centre, home of the world’s first bungy jump—a fun photo op and a taste of Queenstown’s adventurous spirit.

Wineries and Breweries

The heart of the tour is the series of vineyard visits—from Mt Rosa Wines to Brennan Wines, Kinross Winery, and the Rockburn Cellar Door. These venues are known for their friendly atmospheres and high-quality wines, especially Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. We loved the relaxed, fun tasting environments, often in beautifully renovated sheds or historic buildings, which added to the authentic feel.

In addition, the Canyon Brewing and Searchlight Brewery stops showcase Queenstown’s craft beer scene, with some of the best local brews in a scenic riverside setting. For those interested in spirits, the GT Tasting Room offers a curated gin experience, bringing a new flavor to the region’s drink scene.

Scenic and Cultural Highlights

Midday, you’ll visit Gibbston Valley—a must-see for wine lovers—where the winery’s massive wine cave produces some of New Zealand’s most celebrated wines. The Gibbston Tavern adds historic charm, with a lively atmosphere perfect for a casual lunch or a glass of wine.

For those opting for the “ultimate” experience, the choice at Gibbston includes visiting Nockies Palette for a wine and art fusion, or heading up the Crown Range to see breathtaking mountain views en route to Cardrona Hotel or Cardrona Distillery—each with their unique appeal. The distillery offers a complimentary G&T and a guided tasting, while the hotel’s rustic charm provides a cozy spot for a refreshing drink.

Unique Experiences and Hidden Gems

The tour’s stops at Amisfield Restaurant and Cellar Door and Mora Wines & Artisan Kitchen give you a taste of Queenstown’s gastronomic side. Inside and alfresco dining options make these stops perfect for those wanting to combine wine tasting with a meal.

The charming Arrowtown, a former gold-mining town, offers a break from the vineyard visits to explore local shops, the Chinese Settlement, and the Lakes District Museum—an authentic glimpse into the region’s history.

The End of the Day

The tour wraps up with stops at Gantley’s Tavern, Strike Bowl, and local breweries like Canyon Food & Brew and Searchlight Brewery, offering a casual conclusion to an active day. You’ll be back in Queenstown between 4:45pm and 5:30pm, ideal for dinner plans or relaxing after your busy day.

What Travelers Can Expect

Expect a full day of guided tastings, scenic drives, and lively stops, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and learn about local wines, spirits, and beers. Most reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides—who are quick to share insights and keep the group engaged—as a highlight of the experience.

The scenic drives over Crown Range are breathtaking, especially if good weather allows for clear mountain views. The stops at historic pubs and art-filled wineries add an authentic regional flavor that feels far from commercialized.

While the schedule is packed, most travelers found the experience well worth the price, especially when considering the variety of tastings and scenic opportunities. However, some noted that spending more time at fewer stops would be preferable for those who want to savor each experience longer.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for wine and craft beer enthusiasts who want a comprehensive look at Queenstown’s drink and scenic offerings without the hassle of organizing each stop. It’s suitable for those comfortable with a busy schedule and eager to explore a wide variety of stops in one day.

Couples, friends, or small groups looking for a guided experience that combines scenery, culture, and local produce will find this tour hits the mark. It’s also perfect for visitors who prefer not to drive but still want to experience the region’s highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes guided tastings at multiple wineries, breweries, and distilleries, scenic drives, and some food options like cheese platters or pub meals. Pickup from your hotel is also provided.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, beginning around 10:00am and ending in the late afternoon, typically between 4:45pm and 5:30pm.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but since tastings include alcohol, it’s best suited for those of legal drinking age. Non-drinkers can often enjoy the scenic stops and food options.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, once you leave Gibbston Valley, you can choose between three options: visiting Nockies Palette, heading to Cardrona Hotel or Distillery, or enjoying a relaxed visit to the hotel with drinks.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, most reviews mention comfortable buses with enough space for a group, making the long drives pleasant.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 24 days ahead, which is recommended to secure a spot especially during peak season.

Are meals included?
Not specifically; some stops offer food and tapas, but meal options are often at your own expense, or you can enjoy a meal at select stops like Mora Wines or Amisfield.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID for tastings, comfortable shoes, a camera, and an appetite—there’s lots to try and see!

Is it worth the price?
Considering the extensive stops, tastings, scenic drives, and guided commentary, most find the cost justified, especially for those wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free experience.

To sum it up, the Hop on Hop off Wine Tour Queenstown Ultimate Luxury offers a well-organized, diverse, and scenic way to explore Queenstown’s wine and drink scene. With options to tailor your experience, comfortable transportation, and plenty of authentic stops, it’s a smart choice for those who want a taste of everything the region has to offer—without the stress of planning each visit. It’s especially suited for curious travelers eager to learn, taste, and see in style.