Experiences
Explore Central Otago
Wineries, lakes, trails and mountain towns – all within reach of the villa.
Right next door
Start at the vineyard
Mannahill sits in a sunny, elevated spot above Cromwell, surrounded by orchards and vineyards, with views across Lake Dunstan, the Pisa Range and the Dunstan Mountains.
The Brae Tastings & Taps
The Brae shares our address at 27 McNab Road, offering Central Otago wine tastings, local craft beers, casual food and shared platters in a relaxed cellar door setting. Mannahill is also the home of Mount Michael Wines. Please check The Brae's website for current opening times.
Around Cromwell
Things to do nearby
Central Otago wineries
Central Otago is known for its Pinot Noir, as well as aromatic whites such as Riesling and Pinot Gris. The Cromwell Basin is home to many of the region's vineyards, with cellar doors around Bannockburn, Pisa, Lowburn and Bendigo.
Bannockburn
Just across the Kawarau arm of Lake Dunstan, Bannockburn is one of Central Otago's best-known wine areas. It is also home to the Bannockburn Sluicings, a historic gold-mining landscape with a walking track.
Lake Dunstan
Formed by the Clyde Dam, Lake Dunstan wraps around Cromwell. Its shoreline and calm water are popular for walking, cycling, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and boating in the warmer months.
Cycle trails
The Lake Dunstan Trail links Cromwell with Bannockburn and Clyde, including a section through the Cromwell Gorge. From Clyde, the Otago Central Rail Trail and other Central Otago trails extend the options for longer rides.
Old Cromwell Town
On the lakefront, Old Cromwell Town is a heritage precinct of restored stone buildings saved from the old town before the lake was formed, now home to cafés, galleries and shops.
Orchards and local produce
The Cromwell area is known for its stone fruit. In season, look out for fruit stalls and orchard shops around the district selling cherries, apricots and other local produce.
Queenstown
Drive through the Kawarau Gorge, past the Gibbston Valley wineries and the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge, to Queenstown on Lake Wakatipu – lake cruises, gondola, walks and dining. About 50 minutes’ drive (60 km).
Wānaka
Follow Lake Dunstan north to Wānaka, a lakeside town known for its walks, mountain views and the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park. About 45 minutes’ drive (55 km).
Ski fields
In winter, the ski fields around Wānaka (Cardrona and Treble Cone) and Queenstown (Coronet Peak and The Remarkables) can be reached for day trips, conditions permitting.
Opening times, seasons and conditions change – please check with each operator before you go. Want ideas for your dates? Ask us.
Stay at Mannahill
Plan your stay
Book direct with us and save 10%, or book your dates on Airbnb.