The broad flanks and snow-capped peaks of The Remarkables are doubled in the glassy surface of Lake Hayes—and again in the glass front of this sharply designed Queenstown retreat. Built into the slope down to the water and covered in windows, the villa opens new panoramas on each of its 3 levels. Get close to the scenery on the walking trail around the lake, or drive to golf and skiing.

Alfresco sitting and dining areas give you the luxury of having a morning coffee or an evening glass of New Zealand wine within earshot of the lake lapping at the shore. If you’ve come for a ski holiday, end the day with a session in the outdoor hot tub instead, then cozy up to the fireplace to keep toes toasty.

The heart of this vacation rental is an open-concept great room with a wall of windows that runs parallel to the lake and mountains, inviting the outdoors in. Wood-paneled ceilings and an ochre sectional bring natural texture and color into the decor, and on the practical side, there’s plenty of seating at the dining table for 8 and a breakfast bar in the fully equipped kitchen.

A stay at this villa makes it easy to go for a walk around the lake, try the cafes in the charming town center of Allentown, a former mining hub, and tee off at nearby golf courses. It’s also within day-trip distance of Queenstown and skiing at Coronet Peak and The Remarkables.

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