Cardrona Alpine Resort

Cardrona Alpine Resort showing mountains and snow
Cardrona Alpine Resort which includes snow
Cardrona Alpine Resort
Cardrona Alpine Resort
Cardrona Alpine Resort showing snow


Take lessons on the baby slopes, tear up fresh power at a higher elevation or attempt daring stunts in the terrain parks at this popular mountain resort.

When the air is crisp and the snow fresh, Cardona Alpine Resort is a winter sports enthusiast’s dream. On-mountain accommodation will put you close to the action, letting you ski or snowboard right out onto its 850 acres (3.5 square kilometres) of skiable terrain. Test out the nursery slopes, practice flips, spins and slides in the four terrain parks, or tackle the challenging backcountry runs.

Novice skiers can get started on the beginner slopes by the resort centre. This area also incorporates the longest magic-carpet lift in the Southern Hemisphere. Book in for a lesson at the ski school and learn the basics of gliding on the snow. With plenty of green-rated slopes nearby, first-time riders will find they make rapid progress.

Advanced riders will find more demanding terrain around the mountain. Speed down narrow shoots and steep faces or carve your own path on freeride terrain. Four terrain parks offer jumps and jibs of different heights so all abilities of riders can get in on the action. Be sure to check out the Olympic-standard halfpipe. If you don’t fancy performing tricks yourself, stand back and observe as some of the best riders from around the world execute incredible aerial spins.

Cardona Alpine Resort has five different dining options on the mountain, should you want to break for lunch or a snack. Eat pizza on a wide sunny deck with views of the mountain or watch other riders cruising past as you savour hot noodles at a restaurant on the slopes.

The ski season usually runs from mid-June to mid-October. Stay in lodgings on the mountain. Alternatively, ride a bus or drive from nearby Queenstown or Wanaka. Driving from Queenstown will take over an hour, while the car journey from Wanaka takes less than 30 minutes.

Cardona Alpine Resort has several combination package options covering lift passes, equipment rental and lessons. If you’re staying outside the resort, arrange for overnight storage so you can leave your ski gear there.

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Things to do near Cardrona Alpine Resort

At Cardrona Alpine Resort, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including skiing, golfing, and indulging in spa treatments. The Cardrona Adventure Park offers thrilling recreational experiences, making it a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts. Whether you're hitting the slopes or relaxing after a day of exploration, Cardrona promises an unforgettable alpine getaway.

Shopping

While in Cardrona Alpine Resort, you can enjoy local shops. If you're up for a drive, visit Queenstown Mall, located 11.2km away, offering a vibrant mix of businesses and entertainment. Cookie Time and the Creative Queenstown Arts & Crafts Market, also 11.2km away, provide unique gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

At Millbrook Resort Golf Course, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by stunning scenery and fresh alpine air. For a family-friendly experience, head to Alpine Aqualand, where you can relax in the pools and enjoy various water activities. Arrowtown Golf Course offers another chance to tee off amidst beautiful landscapes.

Adventure

The MacDougals Quad Chair, located 62m from Cardrona Alpine Resort, offers thrilling ski experiences amid stunning alpine scenery. For more skiing and sports excitement, head to Snow Farm New Zealand, 4.3km away. Tobins Track, also 4.3km distant, presents a picturesque hiking trail for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nightlife

For a thrilling night, venture to the Skyline Luge, an exhilarating amusement ride just 11.2km from Cardrona. Alternatively, enjoy some competitive fun at Wanaka Paintball or Queenstown Paintball, both offering family-friendly adventure vibes and located nearby at 14 and 9.9km, respectively.

Find the best attractions near Cardrona Alpine Resort

Cardrona Alpine Resort offers an array of attractions such as stunning peaks, symbolic landmarks, and historic villages, perfect for those seeking cultural and outdoor experiences. Explore the breathtaking scenery while indulging in the rich local history. Popular points of interest within a short distance from the resort promise to enhance your visit, making it an ideal destination for any traveller looking to enjoy the beauty of Otago.

  • Arrowtown Chinese Settlement: Discover a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Chinese gold miners in this historic village, featuring well-preserved buildings and informative displays that celebrate the area's rich cultural heritage.
  • St Patrick's Catholic Church & Mary MacKillop's Cottage: Visit this serene site that combines spiritual significance with historical importance. Explore the charming cottage where Australia's first saint lived and admire the beautiful architecture of the church.
  • Kawarau Suspension Bridge: Experience thrilling views from this iconic bridge, renowned for its bungee jumping activities. The bridge offers a perfect blend of adventure and stunning scenery over the Kawarau River.

Best time to go to Cardrona Alpine Resort

The best time to visit Cardrona Alpine Resort can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Cardrona Alpine Resort falls in February, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Cardrona Alpine Resort falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March52.7°F (11.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May43.3°F (6.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June38.1°F (3.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July35.6°F (2.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August37.8°F (3.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September41.5°F (5.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October44.6°F (7.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
November49.1°F (9.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cardrona Alpine Resort

For a budget-friendly trip to Cardrona Alpine Resort, consider visiting during the cheaper months of May to June or October, and book your accommodation around a month in advance. Tuesdays are the most affordable days to stay, while Fridays are pricier. Use Expedia to compare room rates and find last-minute deals, and don’t forget to check for package options that combine flights and activities for additional savings. Exploring free activities in the area can also enhance your experience without straining your wallet.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Cardrona Alpine Resort are May to June and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Cardrona Alpine Resort about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Cardrona Alpine Resort is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Cardrona Alpine Resort is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking at Cardrona Alpine Resort with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.