Cardrona Alpine Resort, Wanaka: Nestled in the beautiful Southern Alps, Cardrona offers a family-friendly snow tubing experience with dedicated tubing lanes and stunning mountain views, perfect for all ages.
Day 1: Arrival in Queenstown and Travel to Wanaka
Arrival in Queenstown: Start your snow tubing adventure by landing in Queenstown. Pick up your rental car and embark on the scenic drive to Wanaka, approximately an hour away. Check into the Edgewater Hotel, offering stunning views of Lake Wanaka.
Evening in Wanaka: Explore Wanaka’s charming town center. Dine at the Bistro Gentil, offering French-inspired cuisine and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for your first night.
Day 2: First Day at Cardrona Alpine Resort
Morning Snow Tubing: After breakfast at your hotel, head to Cardrona Alpine Resort. Rent your equipment on-site and hit the dedicated snow tubing lanes. The resort offers a fun and safe environment for all ages, making it perfect for families and groups.
Lunch at Cardrona: Enjoy a midday break at The Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand’s oldest hotels, for a hearty lunch and some local history.
Afternoon Activities: Spend the afternoon exploring more of Cardrona. Try out beginner skiing or snowboarding lessons, or simply enjoy the winter wonderland scenery.
Dinner in Wanaka: Return to Wanaka for dinner. Relish the culinary delights at Francesca’s Italian Kitchen, known for its authentic Italian dishes.
Day 3: More Tubing and Wanaka Exploration
Return to Cardrona: Head back to Cardrona Alpine Resort for another exhilarating day of snow tubing. Enjoy the thrill of sliding down the well-groomed slopes amidst the breathtaking alpine environment.
Lunch on the Mountain: Grab lunch at the resort, perhaps at The Noodle Bar for a quick and satisfying meal.
Explore Wanaka: In the afternoon, return to Wanaka and visit Puzzling World, a unique attraction with puzzling rooms and mazes, great for families.
Dinner and Relaxation: For dinner, try out the casual yet delicious fare at Big Fig Wanaka, serving slow-cooked, hearty meals. Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll along the lakefront.
Day 4: Leisure in Wanaka and Departure
Morning Leisure: Spend your final morning in Wanaka at your own pace. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, and perhaps take a kayak out on Lake Wanaka or visit Rippon Vineyard for some wine tasting.
Lunch in Wanaka: Have a relaxed lunch at the Kai Whakapai Cafe and Bar, a local favorite with lakeside views.
Departure: After lunch, begin your journey back to Queenstown for your departure. If time allows, make a stop at the historic Arrowtown, a picturesque gold mining town, for a stroll through its quaint streets.
This four-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of winter sports and leisure, centered around the snow tubing experience at Cardrona Alpine Resort. Cardrona provides an ideal setting for snow tubing, with its dedicated lanes and stunning alpine scenery, making it a top destination for families and groups seeking winter fun.
The itinerary also allows for exploration and relaxation in Wanaka, a beautiful lakeside town with a range of dining and entertainment options. From enjoying local cuisine to exploring unique attractions like Puzzling World, the trip offers a well-rounded holiday experience.
Accommodation at the Edgewater Hotel ensures a comfortable stay with breathtaking views, enhancing the overall experience of the trip. The selection of restaurants throughout the itinerary offers a taste of the local flavors, from French-inspired dishes to authentic Italian and casual cafes, ensuring culinary delights after a day in the snow.
