When the days start getting shorter and the snow is settling, it’s time to dust off the skis and snowboards and head to the mountains. Where better to spend a ski holiday than in Cardrona Valley, in the middle of the Southern Alps in the South Island. Cardrona Alpine Resort is one of the top South Island ski fields. Year after year families, beginners, expert athletes and everyone in between wait with bated breath for mid-June-ish to roll around and the slopes at Cardrona to open. Snow conditions to write home about, fantastic runs, beautiful views and a drive to get here that’s a journey on its own. Here’s all you need to know about hitting the slopes at Cardrona Alpine Resort in the Cardrona Valley.
1. The Cardrona Valley
The adventure of getting here, over the crown range and through the valley, is a part of the appeal! The Cardrona Valley connects Queenstown and Wānaka and is a beautifully scenic drive. A stop at the iconic Cardrona Hotel doesn’t go amiss, and the Cardrona Distillery will add a kick to your trip. The Cardrona Alpine Resort is at the top of a 14km unsealed road. Enjoy the views as you drive up the mountain. Cardrona Alpine Resort also offers bus services so you get onto the snow asap, without having to navigate the roads. Shuttles run from the bottom of the Cardrona mountain road too. All in all, this is the ultimate destination for Queenstown and Wānaka skiing and snowboarding.
2. Great Snow Conditions
Being in the heart of the Southern Alps, the snow conditions are stellar at Cardrona. At the base area the elevation is 1670 meters, and there’s 465 hectares of terrain to play with. Aided by snowmaking machines, the snow at this South Island ski field is awesome. The online Cardrona snow report is updated daily so you can access up-to-date information on snow conditions, weather conditions and chair lift status. Plus, there’s a digital and regularly updating screen at the bottom of the mountain road with information on the carpark status and the road conditions. You’re well and truly covered, even if you’re out of phone signal.
3. Beginners, family fun and athletes
Whether you’re a first time shredder or a seasoned skier, Cardrona has some terrain for you. All snow fanatics are welcome here. Cardrona is well-known as a user-friendly mountain, with everything from first-timer packages, kids multi-day programmes for kids 5+, group lessons and private lessons. Cardrona is the ultimate family-friendly ski holiday destination. Break off into separate private or group lessons, and come back together in the afternoon to test your new found skills. There are lunch options to please everyone too. There’s even a ski kindy for under 5’s up the mountain if you’re looking for a place for the little ones to hang out while you hit the slopes. The kids will love you forever.
This is also an alpine resort equipped for snow sports athletes. Their competitive training programme, the High Performance Centre, which includes park, pipe, freeride and race training for all types of competitive skiers and snowboarders.
4. Skiing & Snowboarding
When you’re talking South Island ski fields, Cardrona Alpine Resort is a staple for keen skiers and snowboarders. This winter playground offers a variety of passes to suit your needs. Season passes, one-day or multi-passes are all a go. Plus, season passes and multi-passes give you access to not one but two mountains! Check out the snow at Treble Cone while you’re at it. Keep things simple and rent your gear up the mountain. Or, skip the mountain queues and grab your gear from Après before you head up. Add on lessons if you’re a beginner or looking to level up. Cardrona has an extensive range of terrain and the largest halfpipe in New Zealand!
5. Sightseeing
If you’re less of a skier and more of a spectator, Cardrona Alpine Resort will welcome you with open arms. Soak up the atmosphere from one of the six mountain cafes or restaurants. Play in the snow a little. Check out the McDougall’s Express Chondola so you can get right into the action and explore by foot. The gondola cabins get to the top of the mountain in under four minutes! Once up the top you’ll stumble across the Vista Bar. This is the spot to park up with a glass of champagne and soak up the impressive views, naturally. While you’re up there, check out the Cardrona Swing too for an Instagram-worthy shot! Sightseeing at Cardrona is the ultimate addition to your winter holiday in Queenstown or Wānaka.
This article was created in paid partnership with Real NZ.
