Cardrona Hotel

Perched on the rugged Crown Range Road between Queenstown and Wanaka, the Cardrona Hotel is New Zealand’s oldest surviving hotel, oozing historic charm and alpine character. This iconic 1863 gold-rush pub is a must-stop for its roaring fire, hearty meals, and photogenic verandah draped in hop vines – a true slice of Kiwi heritage in the dramatic Southern Alps.

Highlights & What to See

• Step back in time – soak up the rustic interior with original stone walls, wooden floors, and vintage memorabilia from the gold-mining era.
• Enjoy a classic pub meal – tuck into a steak and ale pie or the famous lamb shank by the fire, paired with a local craft beer.
• Photo op on the verandah – the hotel’s iconic facade, often draped in hops, is one of New Zealand’s most photographed buildings.
• Try the Cardrona Distillery – just down the road, sample award-winning single malt whisky and gin at the distillery’s tasting room.
• Explore the Cardrona Valley – drive the scenic Crown Range Road for breathtaking views, or visit the nearby Cardrona Alpine Resort for skiing in winter.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for at least one to two hours to soak up the atmosphere, enjoy a meal or a drink, and snap photos. If you’re a whisky enthusiast, add another hour for the distillery tour. The hotel is a perfect lunch or afternoon tea stop on a day trip between Queenstown and Wanaka.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wanaka – 35 minutes north, with its lakefront, hiking trails, and the famous #ThatWanakaTree.
• Queenstown – 45 minutes south, the adventure capital for bungee jumping, jet boating, and skydiving.
• Arrowtown – a charming gold-rush village with boutique shops and the Chinese settlement.
• Glenorchy – gateway to the Routeburn Track and filming location for Lord of the Rings.
• Haast Pass – a scenic drive through rainforest and waterfalls toward the West Coast.

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