Cardrona

Cardrona is a tiny historic gold-mining settlement nestled in a high valley between Wanaka and Queenstown, New Zealand. Despite its size, it packs in character: a restored 19th-century hotel, a famous bra fence, and one of the country's best ski fields. The drive over the Crown Range road is an adventure in itself, with sweeping alpine views and hairpin bends.

Highlights & What to See

• Cardrona Hotel – One of New Zealand's most photographed pubs, this historic hotel serves hearty meals and cold beers in a rustic, gold-rush-era setting. Stop for a photo out front.
• Cardrona Bra Fence – An eccentric roadside attraction where visitors have hung thousands of bras since 1999. It's quirky, colourful, and a classic photo op.
• Cardrona Alpine Resort – A top-notch ski field in winter (June–October) with excellent terrain for all levels, and a mountain bike park in summer. The scenic chairlift rides are worth it year-round.
• Crown Range Road – The highest sealed road in New Zealand, offering breathtaking views of the Southern Alps. Drive it for the thrill and the panoramas.
• Snow Farm – New Zealand's only cross-country ski area, perfect for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing in winter.

Suggested Time to Spend

Cardrona is best as a half-day stop or a full day if you're skiing or biking. Most visitors combine it with a scenic drive over the Crown Range (allow 30 minutes for the pass itself). Skiers should plan a full day at the resort; summer visitors can enjoy a meal at the hotel, snap a photo at the bra fence, and then continue to Wanaka or Queenstown.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wanaka – Just 20 minutes north, this lakeside town offers the famous Wanaka Tree, hiking trails, and vibrant cafés.
• Arrowtown – A charming historic gold-rush town 30 minutes south, with preserved cottages, a Chinese settlement, and autumn colours.
• Queenstown – The adventure capital, 45 minutes south, with bungy jumping, jet boats, and the Skyline Gondola.
• Glenorchy – A stunning lakeside village at the head of Lake Wakatipu, about an hour's drive from Cardrona via Queenstown.

Please check official sources for current details.