Mercure Queenstown Resort

That late-night bar food was SO good. We only needed a room because our flight got cancelled, and booking was really easy. The front desk ladies were incredibly kind. The next morning, after we slept through the buffet, the receptionist still let us have breakfast, then helped us use the pool and sauna/shower before we went back to the airport.

We all slept SO well, and the staff were friendly and helpful throughout our three nights. We stayed with my husband and kids, and the rooms were clean and comfortable, with a lovely lake view. We chose Mercure for the pool and family-friendly setup. The breakfast buffet was alright, though the kids' table was literally empty each time we arrived. Our kids aren't fussy and could eat the regular items, but waffles or pancakes only appeared as we were leaving.

The hallways smelled of stale cigarettes, and we could hear everything between rooms because the sound insulation seemed nonexistent. Staff were lovely, but the room was a real letdown. We paid extra for a lake view, which was technically there, though a steel balustrade and about 5m of tall grass across the window sill area spoiled it. There was no privacy either. We realized people could walk straight past our window shortly after we'd had a private moment.

The view from the window was amazing, with the big lake in sight, though not every room has that view. I also really liked the bed, and the toilet was twice as good, sparkling and gleaming. The TV was big and let you screen mirror from your device. I'd recommend this place if you have children.