Queenstown, New Zealand – a destination that had always been on my radar, but after experiencing it firsthand, I can confidently say it should be on everyone’s bucket list. My week-long ski tour, organized by Expedia Vacations, turned out to be one of the most incredible adventures of my life. Every day brought new surprises: from meeting amazing people who shared the same passion for the slopes to carving through some of the best, freshest snow imaginable, all under cold, clear skies that made the entire experience feel magical.

Among the many memorable moments, Cardrona Alpine Resort quickly became my absolute favorite. Nestled between Queenstown and Wanaka in the heart of the Southern Alps, Cardrona is more than just a ski resort—it’s an alpine playground. With 465 hectares of skiable terrain and a thrilling vertical rise of 600 meters from a base elevation of 1,670 meters, the resort caters to all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Whether you’re a beginner navigating 20% dedicated gentle slopes, an intermediate carving through 25% progressive trails, or an advanced rider challenging the steep 30% expert terrain, Cardrona has it all.

The resort’s wide, open basins and expansive facilities were designed with everyone in mind. I was blown away by its world-class freestyle offerings—boasting some of the Southern Hemisphere’s most extensive terrain parks and halfpipe facilities, including New Zealand’s only 22ft Olympic Superpipe. Every run felt like a new adventure, with panoramic views stretching from Lake Wanaka to Queenstown and a snowboarding experience that was as exhilarating as it was visually stunning.

But it wasn’t just about the adrenaline rush. Cardrona exudes a family-friendly vibe, with dedicated kids’ centres, a fantastic ski and snowboard school, and eight unique on-mountain dining venues where you could refuel with everything from hot meals to a quick cup of coffee. And adding to its charm is a quirky local tradition—the Cardrona Bra Fence—a fun and authentic touch that reminds you that here, you’re not just a guest; you’re part of the Cardrona whānau.

From the early morning views of snow-draped peaks to the lively après-ski sessions where stories of the day’s runs were shared over mulled wine, every moment in Queenstown was unforgettable. Cardrona Alpine Resort wasn’t just another stop along the way—it was the highlight of my ski tour, a must-do experience that has forever earned a top spot on my bucket list.

If you’re planning your own winter adventure, trust me—Cardrona is an experience you simply cannot miss.