Staggering beauty and heart-pumping thrills await in Queenstown. The alpine resort on Lake Wakatipu began its life as an 1860s gold-mining town, but it now draws droves of outdoor enthusiasts for kayaking, bungee jumping, hiking and skiing. For a more mild-mannered adventure, take a quiet cruise through nearby Milford Sound, part of the Fjordland National Park World Heritage area, or sample South Island pinot noir from one of the region's 75 wineries. No matter the season, you won't want to stay indoors.