Start Day 1 in Cromwell with a taste of fresh fruit juices at the Juice Café on your way into town, then head for the Big Picture for a totally unique wine-tasting experience. Visit the historic Old Cromwell Town to sample gourmet foods and enjoy local arts and crafts. On Day 2 explore the old mining relics of Stewart Town and the Bannockburn Sluicings near Bannockburn, then stop at the many wineries to sample the local wines of the region. Head towards Clyde, stopping along the way at the lookout point – see if you can spot the submerged bridge under the waters of Lake Dunstan – and the massive Clyde Dam. In Clyde explore the beautiful historic township and its many stone buildings. Put feet to pedals on Day 3 as you ride the Central Otago Rail Trail on a bicycle day trip and enjoy getting up close to the rugged scenery. Drive on to Alexandra on Day 4, have a lazy lunch at the Courthouse Café, and then take a stroll along the Anniversary Track with views of the mighty Clutha River. On Day 5 drive east along the scenic “Pig Route”, detouring the visit the tiny town of St Bathans with its stunning Blue Lake, try the ancient game of curling at Maniototo Curling International Indoor Rink (www.curling.co.nz), open year round and located in Naseby. Finally head on to Ranfurly to explore the art deco architecture and local history.
