Hotels in Cromwell

Whispers of Tranquility: Unveiling the Hidden Charms of Cromwell Lake

Nestled in the heart of Central Otago, Cromwell, New Zealand, is a captivating getaway that seamlessly blends stunning landscapes with rich history. Surrounded by the shimmering waters of Lake Dunstan and the rugged beauty of the Southern Alps, this charming village invites travelers to explore its outdoor adventures, from biking along scenic trails to boating on the lake. Discover the past at the Cromwell Museum, and savor local flavors at nearby vineyards. With its warm hospitality and breathtaking vistas, Cromwell offers a perfect escape for nature lovers and culture seekers alike. For the best hotel rates in Cromwell and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Cromwell

Some of the best places to stay in Cromwell are Wanaka, Arrowtown and Alexandra. Cromwell, Otago, is an excellent base for exploring nearby Wanaka, Arrowtown, and Alexandra. Wanaka offers stunning lake views and outdoor adventures, Arrowtown charms with its gold rush history, and Alexandra features vibrant local culture and beautiful landscapes. Accommodation options in all three locations range from cozy lodges to modern hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay. For first-time visitors, Wanaka is particularly appealing due to its breathtaking scenery and abundance of activities. Here are some of the best hotels in Cromwell that our travelers love:

1. WanakaOpens in a new window: Wanaka is a stunning destination known for its outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. It's perfect for families and adventure seekers, offering attractions like Rippon Vineyard for wine lovers, the enchanting Wanaka Lavender Farm, and the quirky Puzzling World. For accommodations, consider Lakeshore Springs ApartmentsOpens in a new window, a luxurious lodging option offering adventure sports and amenities for children. Another great choice is Lime Tree LodgeOpens in a new window, a lodge that provides easy access to skiing and other adventure sports. Lastly, Wanaka HavenOpens in a new window caters to business travelers while also providing adventure opportunities, making it a versatile option for visitors.
2. ArrowtownOpens in a new window: Arrowtown is a charming historic gold mining town surrounded by beautiful landscapes, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The area features attractions like the Millbrook Resort Golf Course and the nearby ski fields at The Remarkables and Coronet Peak. Millbrook ResortOpens in a new window is an excellent hotel for those looking for a combination of business and adventure, with various outdoor activities available. Alternatively, Arrowtown Motel ApartmentsOpens in a new window offers a natural experience with wellness amenities and easy access to hiking and biking trails. For a more casual stay, Settlers Cottage MotelOpens in a new window provides an adventurous holiday park experience.
3. AlexandraOpens in a new window: Alexandra is a picturesque town known for its outdoor beauty and recreational opportunities, including the Roxburgh Gorge Trail and Three Miners Wineries. This area is perfect for nature lovers and adventurers. Consider staying at Alexandra Heights MotelOpens in a new window, a pet-friendly motel that welcomes guests traveling with furry companions. For a more luxurious experience, Lake Roxburgh LodgeOpens in a new window offers adventure activities and upscale amenities. Alternatively, Nangari StudioOpens in a new window provides a comfortable stay with various entertainment options and recreational activities nearby, ensuring a delightful visit.

Things to do in Cromwell for first time

Three days in Cromwell, New Zealand, offer a perfect escape into stunning natural landscapes featuring serene lakes, rolling hills, and lush forests. Enjoy activities like waterskiing, fishing, and hiking, or relax by the beach. This charming destination is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Cromwell:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Cromwell by exploring the stunning Lake Dunstan, where you can enjoy activities like kayaking or simply relaxing by the water. Next, make your way to Sheehey Lake, a hidden gem perfect for picnicking or a leisurely walk. Conclude your day at the impressive Clyde Dam, where you can learn about its significance and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at the Goldfields Mining Centre, where you can immerse yourself in the history of gold mining in the region, and even try your hand at gold panning. Afterward, take a scenic drive to the Kawarau Suspension Bridge, an iconic spot for bungee jumping and photography. Wrap up your day at the Crown Range Summit, where panoramic views of the Southern Alps will leave you in awe, making it a perfect spot for sunset.
• Day 3: Begin your day by visiting the Clyde Historical Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the area’s past. From there, head to the Roxburgh Dam, an engineering marvel that provides stunning views and great walking tracks. Finish your trip at Mitchells Cottage, a quaint historical site that showcases early settler life, giving you a glimpse into the region's rich heritage.

5 tips to find a great Cromwell hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those looking to travel on a budget, the best time to visit Cromwell is during May, October, and November, when hotel rates are more affordable. International travelers should aim to book their flights at least one month in advance for better deals. To truly enjoy the area’s great value for money, plan for a stay of at least 2-3 days. This will give you ample time to explore the local attractions, including the beautiful lake, ensuring a fulfilling visit without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you’re looking for last-minute deals on accommodations in Cromwell, visiting the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com is a great starting point. You could find good availability and discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of snagging a bargain, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you’re more likely to stay informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions, helping you save on your stay in Cromwell.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and season. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could increase the chances that you may save on hotel expenses in Cromwell.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Cromwell is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like driving, taking the bus, or cycling to explore the area while likely saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Cromwell and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Cromwell

Here are some famous dishes in Cromwell, Otago, New Zealand:

• Lamb: New Zealand is renowned for its tender, flavorful lamb, often roasted or grilled to perfection. In Cromwell, you'll find local eateries serving lamb dishes that reflect traditional Maori cooking methods, such as hangi, where the meat is slow-cooked in an underground oven, infusing it with unique, smoky flavors.
• Seafood: The coastal regions of New Zealand yield fresh seafood, including green-lipped mussels and snapper. Enjoy a seafood platter in Cromwell, featuring a variety of local catches, often prepared with a touch of local herbs and spices, showcasing the region's maritime heritage.
• Pavlova: This iconic New Zealand dessert is a must-try. Made with a crisp meringue shell and topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream, pavlova is often served at gatherings and celebrations, symbolizing the sweet, communal spirit of Kiwi culture.

Best time to go to Cromwell

Cromwell experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 34.9°F (1.6°C), while February is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 56.7°F (13.7°C). May is usually the wettest month. January, February, and December are the peak travel months in Cromwell, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, May, June, and August tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.