Day trip from Otago, Otago
Cromwell, Clyde, and Central Otago Wine Region
A scenic drive through the Kawarau Gorge and Gibbston Valley takes you to the heart of Central Otago's gold rush country and wine region. Cromwell (once nearly inundated by Lake Dunstan), the heritage town of Clyde, and the wine village of Bannockburn offer history, wine, and excellent food in beautiful schist rock landscape.
Highlights
- Kawarau Gorge drive and AJ Hackett Bungy Bridge
- Gibbston Valley Winery cave tour and tastings
- Peregrine Wines cellar door (stunning architecture)
- Old Cromwell Town heritage precinct
- Bannockburn wine sub-region (Mt Difficulty, Carrick, Felton Road)
- Historic town of Clyde and Clyde Bakery
- Central Otago stone fruit stalls in season
Tips
- Designate a driver if doing multiple winery tastings
- Felton Road in Bannockburn produces some of Central Otago's most celebrated Pinot Noir—try the cellar door
- Clyde Bakery sells extraordinary fruit pies using local stone fruit
- Return via Crown Range Road for spectacular elevated views if you are comfortable on mountain roads