An adventurer’s playground, Cardrona is spectacular. Winter visitors can explore the 345-hectare alpine resort, whilst mountain bikers, hikers and horse riders can navigate both the mountains and the impressive Cardrona Valley during the summer. With accommodation options ranging from cosy B&Bs to a heritage icon, our pick of the best places to stay in Cardrona has something for everyone.

Just 40 minutes’ drive from Queenstown, Cardrona is easily accessible for fun family or group trips — and a few days here are a wonderful addition to a trip to the Wānaka, Queenstown and Central Otago region. Ski and snowboarding lessons can easily be arranged, and there’s a tremendous choice of runs to experience. Cardrona Parks has the most extensive park and pipe facilities in the Southern Hemisphere. Gondola rides to the top of the mountain, on the other hand, yield stunning views, whilst snow tubing is fantastic fun for travellers of all ages!

Come summer, you can follow trails through gold rush towns in the Cardrona Valley, zoom down mountain trails in Cardrona Bike Park — including the legendary Cardrona Peak to Pub descent — or go mountain carting. Tours of Cardrona Distillery or walks in the Pisa Conservation Area are brilliant. Follow big days of discovery with cosy evenings of stargazing at one of the best places to stay in Cardrona.

The Best Places to Stay in Cardrona

For a Charming B&B

• Waiorau Homestead has three individually decorated rooms and one studio, forming an intimate, owner-run B&B. The 10-acre garden and the swimming pool will be a sure-fire hit with the kids! Savour three-course table d'hôte dinners — available on request. Brilliant for active families or couples.

For a Heritage Icon

• Cardrona Hotel was established in 1863, and is one of the few remaining buildings from the region's gold rush era. Book a simple, cosy room clad in grey and blue hues, and feast in the award-winning restaurant, or soak up the sunshine in the beer garden. Relaxed yet iconic.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Queenstown Airport, 40 minutes by bus or car from Cardrona.
• New Zealand is famously wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the winter months (May to August) for skiing and snowboarding, or come in the summer for cycling, horse riding, mountain biking and more.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Queenstown.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the South Island.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.