Central Otago
Cromwell
Cromwell Heritage Precinct © Hayden Parsons
‘clipped’ into the rock. Highlights include an 85km-long suspension bridge, stunning lake views and Coffee Afloat: a surprising floating coffee shop.
Giant Fruit Sculpture Because
Alexandra
this region is nicknamed the Fruit Bowl of the South, on the outskirts of Cromwell there is a giant fruit sculpture, comprising an apple, pear, nectarine and apricot.
Suncrest Orchard Try Central Otago’s famously juicy fruit. Mrs Jones’ Fruit Stall is open daily from 8.30am until 5.30pm. You can lick on a fresh fruit ice cream in the adjoining English-style garden or pucker up for some pinot port at the orchard’s tasting room.
Clyde
Ranfurly Heritage Precinct In 1992 the construction of Clyde Dam caused mass flooding of Cromwell. Some historic buildings were saved and rebuilt as the Heritage Precinct. Now sitting handsomely on the banks of Lake Dunstan, it’s packed with cafés, art galleries and specialist shops.
Bannockburn Hotel Boasting
Hot Laps Race around the track
one of the best vantage points over the region’s sprawling vines, this hotel boasts an extensive 200-strong wine menu, 60 of which can be ordered by the glass.
in all manner of speedy machines at The Highlands Motorsport Park and while you’re there, take a tinkle. The bathroom has views of the racetrack so there’s no fear of missing any action.
Cromwell
Lake Dunstan Jut above the Clyde dam, this large man-made lake beckons swimmers, water skiers and boaties.
Ophir
The Stoaker Room Talented chefs cook and prepare your food in pinot noir barrels that are made from French oak and have been converted into cooking devices. The result is a barbecue-meets-smoker taste sensation.
Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail
St Bathans
Alexandra
Naseby
Clyde
Ranfurly
Central
Ophir
St Bathans ABOVE: Clyde © Adobe Stock RIGHT: Historical sign, Clyde © Central Otago Tourism
Naseby
This newly opened 55km bike ride connects Cromwell to Clyde by tracing the edges of Cromwell Gorge and straddling its sheer cliffside by means of ingenious bridges
Otago Central Rail Trail Most cyclists start or finish the famous Central Otago Rail Trail from this small, hospitable township.
Clutha River Cruises Enjoy
Otago
See Map Section - pages 57 to 63
Goldfields Mining Centre Gold
a compelling mix of history and scenery while cruising Clutha River to the remotest reaches of Roxburgh Gorge. For livelier trips, jet boat tours are also available, with the 6pm Twilight Heritage Tour a popular option.
Sunderland Street Eyes are drawn to the old mason buildings and neat stone houses on Sunderland Street. Cloaked in summer blooms, or in winter, plumes of smoke billowing from brick chimneys.
Rail Trail
Historic Buildings Authentic down to their very last beam, particularly impressive are the old bank (now a café), Dunstan House Hotel which is over 120 years old and Olivers Restaurant, the latter
mining comes spectacularly back to life with a working stamper battery (once used to crush gold-bearing ore) operating sluice machines, a replica Chinese village and gold panning.
See p44 for more Cromwell Must-Do’s. TOP TIP: From October through to Easter, a lively Sunday market takes place at the Cromwell Heritage Precinct between 9am and 1pm.
being the premises for the Victoria Store Brewery, too.
Clyde Dam New Zealand’s third largest hydroelectric dam. It’s a monstrosity, but in that handsomely-ugly manner that most dams are. Worth a look to appreciate its scale and ingenuity. Eade Gallery Take an exquisite piece of the South Island home. This beautiful, polished gallery showcases local artwork, sculpture pieces and irresistible jewellery. Nom Nom Gelato Delicious artisan ice cream made in-house. Flavours such as Bubbley Lubbley and Apricot Chip and Vanilla should get your tongue intrigued. Open from August to May. Monte Christo Raspberry Café A fun, fresh and fabulous experience for the entire family, discover lush gardens, a maze, mini-golf, PYO raspberries, fresh ice cream and fruity desserts.
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