Roxburgh

Roxburgh is a sleepy Central Otago town that bursts into life during summer, when the Roxburgh Gorge fills with kayakers and the roadside stalls overflow with local stone fruit. Set along the Clutha River, this is a place to slow down, taste the region's famed apricots and cherries, and soak up the gold-rush history that lingers in its quiet streets.

Highlights & What to See

• Roxburgh Gorge – Paddle or hike through this dramatic schist gorge, part of the Clutha Gold Trail; the calm turquoise water mirrors sheer rock walls.
• Clutha Gold Trail – Cycle or walk this 73-km riverside trail from Roxburgh to Lawrence, passing old gold diggings and historic bridges.
• Roxburgh Stone Fruit – In summer, roadside stalls sell juicy apricots, peaches, nectarines and cherries straight from the orchard; don't miss the famous Jimmy's Pies.
• Roxburgh Dam & Lake Roxburgh – A scenic spot for picnics, fishing and jet-boating; the dam's hydro station offers a glimpse into the region's power generation.
• Goldfields Mining Centre – A hands-on historic site where you can try gold panning and explore tunnels and stamper batteries.
• Roxburgh Museum – Housed in a former bank, it tells the story of the town's gold-mining and fruit-growing heritage.

Suggested Time to Spend

Roxburgh is a perfect half-day stop or an overnight pause if you're cycling the Clutha Gold Trail. Arrive mid-morning to explore the museum and gorge, enjoy a stone-fruit feast for lunch, then take a short walk along the river before moving on. If you're a keen cyclist or kayaker, allow a full day to tackle the trail or paddle the gorge.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Cromwell – The gateway to Central Otago's wine region, with cellar doors and the historic old town.
• Alexandra – A larger town with the striking Clock Tower, the Alexandra Blossom Festival (spring) and more gold-rush history.
• Millers Flat – A tiny settlement with a historic suspension bridge and great fishing spots along the Clutha.
• Lawrence – The end of the Clutha Gold Trail, known for its well-preserved gold-rush streetscape and the Gabriel's Gully diggings.

Please check official sources for current details.