Sarah WallockCromwell offers delicious wine, stunning vistas and small-town charm that is the perfect getaway from the rush of Auckland or the buzz of touristy Queenstown. Head to Cromwell to get off the beaten-track.
I was given the opportunity to first visit Cromwell back in 2020 after Covid. The valley is a unique area of New Zealand because there’s a lake, mountains and rolling vineyards. Central Otago includes a variety of interesting underrated places. I’ll take you through some of the must-dos of the area. Here I’ll provide some insights into where to stay, play and what to drink in Cromwell.
It is the ideal weekend getaway from Queenstown or Wanaka (under an hour from either place). Cromwell provides both nature, comfort and it’s not too in the middle of nowhere, like some of the other regional farm towns.
Not only has Cromwell already made the map due to its newly constructed Lake Dunstan Bike Trail, but it is forecasted to be a central figure in New Zealand’s tourism in the coming years. Especially if the regional airport development project comes through in Tarras.
Stay: Vineyard Cottage, Bannockburn
Owen’s place in Bannockburn is the perfect escape from it all. I’ve had the pleasure of staying here many times as it’s one of my best friends, Nicole’s, father’s house. His family has lived in the area since he was a kid and he can tell you everything you need to know about Cromwell, New Zealand, and more.
A dreamy Bannockburn winter sunset
Located on Felton Road, a country road lined with breathtaking vineyards, it is truly idyllic. The bright pink sunsets and sunrises can’t be missed. The ensuite is comfortable, has incredible shower pressure and a lovely bath tub. It’s a short walk from the local pub, part of the Bannockburn Hotel, and directly across from the DOC Sluicings walk, going through an old gold-miners site.
Bike: Lake Dunstan Trail
The new Lake Dunstan Trail is a magnificent engineering feat which connects the towns of Clyde to Cromwell.
The trail offers cyclists and walkers an easy 55km ride (Grade 1-2) through unique and fascinating landscapes so characteristic of Central Otago as it journeys along Lake Dunstan, the Kawarau River and the mighty Clutha River Mata-au.
Central Otago Website
We completed 42 km from Cromwell to Clyde on ebikes thanks to the team at SheBikesHeBikes and it took roughly 3 hours. The views of the lake to the left were absolutely incredible. The views of the towering cliffs to the right were unbelievable. The whole trail made me feel so small and insignificant the way the natural landscapes in New Zealand sometimes do. Grab your bike, spend the day laughing and smiling in the sun, and do it all over again the next day. I would full-heartedly recommend cycling the Lake Dunstan Trail.
Drink: Coffee Afloat
Image credit Coffee Afloat Instagram 
As much as an old granola bar will keep you going on the trail, what if you had your choice between warm coffee, fudgey brownies or a classic kiwi scone after a 20 km bike ride? Did I mention you’re on a remote cliffside on the edge of a lake with no shops in either direction for at least an hour? I know I couldn’t resist… It’s the perfect invention. Thanks to the team at Coffee Afloat, all of our mid-trail needs were met.
I think I’ve found the closest thing to heaven in New Zealand. I’m in the middle of the mountains, surrounded by soaring cliffs riding the country’s newest cycle trail… In my ideal world, I’d love a moment to get off my bike, stretch the muscles and enjoy a hot coffee – but I’m in the middle of nowhere. That’s never going to happen.
Hang on. What’s that?
Brook Sabin, Travel Journalist Stuff NZ
All in all, I couldn’t have been any happier with my experience in Cromwell for the weekend. I can’t wait for my next trip to Cromwell to explore even further. A massive thank you to the Calvert family for their endless love and hospitality.
Full disclosure: All of these experiences relate to my personal connection to Bannockburn and the Calvert family. I was in no way endorsed to express any of these opinions, they are completely my own.
