Escape the City and Enjoy Life in Wānaka
City life has its perks — but sometimes the traffic, noise, and endless to-do lists can feel overwhelming. When you need to hit pause, there’s no better place to recharge than Wānaka, New Zealand’s ultimate destination for slowing down, reconnecting, and rediscovering the joy of life. Nestled on the edge of Lake Wānaka and framed by the Southern Alps, this alpine town is the perfect escape from the city.
Breathe in the Space
From the moment you arrive in Wānaka, life takes on a calmer rhythm. The wide-open landscapes, crystal-clear lake, and fresh mountain air make it easy to slow down and just be. A stroll along the Wānaka lakefront at sunrise or sunset offers a kind of peace you simply can’t find in the city. It’s the kind of place where you naturally put your phone down, take a deep breath, and remember how good it feels to live in the moment.
Explore at Your Own Pace
Adventure in Wānaka doesn’t mean high pressure or extreme sports — it’s about getting outdoors and enjoying nature in a way that suits you. If you love cycling, General Adventure Company’s e-bike tours are the perfect way to experience the region. With quiet country roads, vineyard stops, and breathtaking views, e-bikes make exploring effortless and fun for all fitness levels. Whether you want a gentle half-day ride or a full-day adventure, an e-bike tour is the perfect blend of activity and relaxation.
If walking is more your style, there are tracks to match every mood — from the famous Roy’s Peak for panoramic views to shorter, scenic trails like Mount Iron. In winter, Cardrona and Treble Cone ski fields are only a short drive away, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding without the city crowds.
Taste the Good Life
Taking a break also means indulging a little. Wānaka’s food and wine scene is small but full of flavour. Spend an afternoon tasting Central Otago wines, visit a local brewery, or enjoy a lakeside meal made with fresh, regional produce. Or simply pack a picnic, take your e-bike out to a quiet spot, and soak up the view — sometimes the simplest pleasures are the most memorable.
Stay Where Relaxation Comes First
Your Wānaka escape deserves more than a hotel room. That’s why Escape to Riverslea, our luxury Airbnb, was designed as the perfect base for both adventure and relaxation. Set in a peaceful location with stunning views of Roy’s Peak and the Pisa Range, it offers everything you need for a restorative getaway. After a day of cycling or skiing, unwind in the hot outdoor bath, relax in the cosy living spaces, or take advantage of our ski and bike facilities, designed with active travellers in mind.
Why Wānaka?
Because it reminds you to slow down, savour life, and reconnect with what matters. From peaceful lakefront mornings to unforgettable e-bike rides, from fine wine to alpine adventures, Wānaka is the kind of place that refreshes your soul. When city life feels too much, Escape to Riverslea and let Wānaka show you how good life can be.