Queenstown’s Getting Steamy

Not to say that Queenstown isn’t already great, in fact it was amazing before humans ever set eyes on The Remarkables mountain range and its pristine waters below. But this year marks the opening of Thermae by Aluume Wellness. First announced in 2025 it’s a world-class luxury floating alpine sauna offering discerning travellers the perfect place to unwind, reset and restore after a day on the mountains.

The design of the floating structure draws inspiration from the surrounding landscape, its curved form reflecting the silhouette of The Remarkables mountain range. Drawing the outdoors in, carefully framed view apertures and sculptural forms have been incorporated throughout to emphasise moments of connection with the mountains ensuring it feels grounded in place and deeply connected to its alpine setting.

This is the second location opened by Aluume Wellness who last year opened Bathe by Aluume which is decidedly more inland on Brecon Street, at the base of Bob’s Peak. Thermae on the other hand will be floated out from Queenstown Marina.

At the heart of the experience is a traditional hot and cold contrast circuit, a wellness ritual widely practised for supporting muscle recovery, circulation and mental clarity.

The floating structure will feature three electrically powered saunas – one private sauna accommodating six guests, alongside two communal saunas with capacities of ten and four.

Each sauna experience is paired with immediate cold immersion drawn directly from the alpine waters of Lake Wakatipu. The private sauna includes its own dedicated cold plunge, while communal guests move between the saunas and the lake for a true alpine contrast experience.

A steam room will also be available to all guests, adding another layer to the bathing and recovery circuit.

The venue should be welcoming guests by the time you read this in August.