For a truly indelible accommodation and hospitality experience, the colonial-period character of the Cardrona Hotel cannot fail to impress. Built in 1863, the wooden hotel is located on the majestic Crown Range, just 20 minutes from Wanaka and 40 minutes from Queenstown.
The Crown Range is New Zealand's highest highway, slicingthrough the alpine grandeur of Central Otago and serving up a giddy view of beautiful panoramas. Suddenly, the rustic pioneering charm of the historic hotel appears on the roadside of the Cardrona Valley, beckoning travellers to take a break.
Hosts Peter and Vicki Byrne have imbued the establishment with a hearty family atmosphere - not forgetting the friendly feline touch of Whiskers the cat.
Roaring fires blaze in the lounge and dining room, drawing guests to soak up the heat from the deep-buttoned armchairs, while enjoying the conviviality of the bar. The accommodation suites are a recent addition, beautifully furnished with colonial-style furniture and trimmings, and there's no skimping on comfort. The restaurant serves locally produced gourmet food at reasonable prices, and their hearty morning teas are a popular drawcard for passing travellers.
The history of the hotel is fascinating with a scrapbook of newspaper clippings and photographs on hand to peruse.
One of the most famous former owners was James Patterson, who ran it from 1927 to 1961.
He still has a "presence" in the hotel and one of the suspended skis in the bar swings vigorously - for no apparent reason - from time to time.
A stay at this hotel is a must.
