Highlight • Pub
Cardrona Hotel
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5.0
(1)
The Cardrona Hotel is a truly iconic and historic pub, restaurant, and accommodation nestled in the scenic Cardrona Valley, Central Otago, on New Zealand's South Island. Standing at an elevation of 563 meters, this landmark is one of the country's oldest hotels, established in 1863 during the Central Otago gold rush, and remains a cherished piece of the region's heritage.
Visitors consistently praise the hotel's rustic charm and inviting atmosphere, often highlighting its award-winning restaurant and bar. The cozy interior,…
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4.4
(10)
178
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103km
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1,640m
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Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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(6)
108
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08:11
1,780m
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2.0
(1)
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330m
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 560 m
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Thursday 16 April
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97 %
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Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of accommodation does the Cardrona Hotel offer?
The Cardrona Hotel provides boutique accommodation with 17 en-suite rooms, including double, twin, and family options, as well as a villa. Each room features a private bathroom, tea and coffee making facilities, heating, and satellite TV. Guests often praise the clean, comfortable, and peaceful environment.
Are there any specific amenities for winter sports enthusiasts staying at the hotel?
Yes, the hotel is well-equipped for winter sports enthusiasts. It offers a dedicated ski drying room, which is very convenient after a day on the slopes. Additionally, there's a hot tub available for guests to relax in, and outdoor fires add to the cozy ambiance during colder months.
Is the Cardrona Hotel restaurant suitable for families with children?
Yes, the Cardrona Hotel is considered family-friendly. Its award-winning restaurant offers a hearty, seasonally changing menu that includes pub staples, likely catering to various tastes. The legendary beer garden also provides a beautiful and spacious outdoor area for families to enjoy meals and drinks.
Are there any dog-friendly trails or areas near the Cardrona Hotel?
While the hotel itself is a popular stop, specific information about dog-friendly trails directly adjacent to the hotel is not readily available. However, the wider Cardrona Valley offers numerous outdoor opportunities. It's always best to check local regulations for specific trails regarding dog access, especially within protected areas or private land.
What are some easy walking routes or beginner trails accessible from the Cardrona Hotel?
The Cardrona Valley offers a range of walking routes. For easy walks, you can explore the immediate surroundings of the hotel, which is part of the old core of Cardrona with preserved historic buildings. For more structured beginner routes, look for designated walking tracks within the valley that are typically well-marked and have minimal elevation gain. komoot can help you discover suitable options.
Are there challenging hiking or mountain biking trails in the Cardrona Valley?
Absolutely. The Cardrona Valley is renowned for its diverse outdoor activities, including both challenging hiking and mountain biking trails. The mountainous terrain between Queenstown and Wānaka provides options with significant elevation changes and technical sections, catering to experienced hikers and mountain bikers seeking a more rigorous adventure.
What are the parking options for visitors who want to explore nearby trails after visiting the hotel?
The Cardrona Hotel offers ample free parking on-site for its patrons. If you plan to embark on a trail directly from the hotel, you can likely leave your vehicle there while you explore. For trails further afield, specific trailheads usually have their own parking areas, which may vary in size and availability.
Does the Cardrona Hotel have any unique historical features or stories?
Yes, the Cardrona Hotel is steeped in history. Established in 1863 during the Central Otago gold rush, it's one of New Zealand's oldest hotels. It's also rumored to have a resident ghost named Jimmy, who was a previous owner from 1927 to 1961. The hotel's facade is one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand, and its interior once featured a ceiling decorated with foreign money donated by tourists.
Are there any other historic landmarks or viewpoints near the Cardrona Hotel?
The Cardrona Hotel itself is a significant landmark. It's part of the old core of Cardrona, where other historic buildings like the school, post office, and church have also been preserved, offering a glimpse into the gold rush era. The hotel's location on the scenic Crown Range Road also provides access to numerous viewpoints offering spectacular mountain vistas of the Cardrona Valley.
What kind of food and drink can I expect at the Cardrona Hotel's restaurant and bar?
The hotel boasts an award-winning restaurant and bar known for its hearty, seasonally changing menu. You can expect classic pub staples like venison fillet and southern fried chicken. The bar offers a selection of local craft beers, a good range of wines, and spirits, ensuring there's something for every taste.
Is public transport available to reach the Cardrona Hotel or explore the valley?
The Cardrona Hotel is situated on the scenic Crown Range Road, which is a major route between Queenstown and Wānaka. While specific public transport routes directly to the hotel might be limited, especially for exploring the wider valley, shuttle services or tour buses often pass through or stop at key locations in the region. Renting a car is generally the most flexible option for exploring the Cardrona Valley.