7 Reasons To Stop In Cardrona This Summer

Nestled between Queenstown and Wānaka, the Cardrona Valley is full of hidden (and not-so-hidden) gems that can quickly fill a day or three. We've compiled our top picks for things to do on the mountain and in the valley this summer.

1. Feeling adventurous? Go Mountain Carting!

Stuff.co.nz called it "the coolest thing to do in New Zealand." We might be a bit biased, but we totally agree! Cardrona is the only place in the country where you can go mountain carting, and it's a whole lot of fun—whether you're racing your mates or cruising the trails and admiring the views.

2. Have a drink at the iconic Cardrona Hotel:

It's been around since the Central Otago Gold Rush, and you can still get a bloody good drop. Founded in 1863, the Cardrona Hotel is home to a lot of interesting history. You can sit outside in the gorgeous garden area and enjoy the sunshine, great food, and some of the region's best brews, spirits and wines. The Cardrona Hotel sits conveniently at the bottom of the Cardrona Peak to Pub mountain bike trail – the perfect spot to refresh after 1100m of bike descent!

3. Take in the sights from the Cardrona summit:

Looking for that perfect Instagram shot with the Southern Alps as your backdrop? Head up the McDougall’s Chondola at Cardrona and take a short walk to the summit – the view will take your breath away! Keep walking on the Captain's Loop for more incredible views, or take a downhill stroll through the alpine daisies back to the Cardrona Base area on the Skyline Trail. If you use our uphill walking trails, you can even bring your dog with you!

4. Try a tipple at the Cardrona Distillery:

They're right across the road from us, and they're doing some pretty exciting things. If you're a spirits lover, you've got to take a tour and tasting at the Cardrona Distillery this summer! The team will take you through the distillery's processes, and you'll finish the tour with a tasting of some of their unique artisan spirits – our favourites are The Source Gin and the Rose Rabbit Orange Liqueur...

5. Learn the basics of downhill mountain biking:

New to mountain biking? We've got you covered! The Cardrona Bike Park team can get you rolling comfortably with everything you could possibly need. Lift passes, full-suspension bike rental, safety gear and a lesson with some amazing bike instructors.

6. Take a photo at the Cardrona Bra Fence:

You can't really say you've "done" Cardrona without a visit to the Cardrona Bra Fence. It's next door to the Cardrona Distillery, and it provides a bit of a giggle while raising funds for the New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation. Leave a bra, a donation, or both, and make sure you get a photo!

7. Explore the valley on a horse or quad bike:

If you'd rather explore the valley on a less traditional mode of transportation, embrace your inner Hobbit and go horse riding with The Cardrona or Backcountry Saddle Expeditions. The Cardrona also offers quad-biking tours if you prefer to travel with a little more grunt and a little less gallop!

We can't wait to see you in the valley and on the mountain for another incredible summer of exploring all the things to do in Cardrona. Let us know if you've tried any of these before if we've missed anything important, and what your favourite Cardrona summer activity is!