Cardrona: A Ski-Lover's All-year-round Winter Paradise
A range of ski-resorts upon pristine while slopes are what attracts tourists to Cardrona, New Zealand, a locality in the Cardrona Valley in the region of Otago. Back in the late 1800's, the town was the center of the region's gold mining industry. It is most accessible from the Queenstown Airport (ZQN), 24 miles away.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit and book Cardrona hotels is from early December to early March. The busiest months for tourism are March, July, and June. Travelers are unlikely to visit in November. Visit in October to catch the Cardrona Folk Music Festival.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Skiing enthusiasts will love Cardrona Alpine Resort in Cardrona, New Zealand, which offers beginner, intermediate, advanced, and expert slopes. A unique tradition left by female visitors is leaving an old bra on the Cardrona Bra Fence before they depart. Visit the Coronet Peak Ski Area for mountain biking, skiing, and sightseeing activities. Learn about the town's gold rush past at the Lakes District Museum and the heritage of Chinese miners at the Historic Arrowtown Chinese Settlement. Go for scenic walks through Roys Peak Lookout, Roaring Meg Lookout by the river, and Arrow Junction Lookout Point. Go for wine tasting at Amisfield Bistro & Cellar Door or Wet Jacket Wines. The Waiorau Homestead offers country-style accommodation with free Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool and a hot tub. The Cardrona Hotel offers luxury accommodations and activities such as archery and clay pigeon shooting. The hotel also offers an outdoor patio with a fireplace, BBQ and guest lounge.