Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Lake Dunstan
Explore the serene beauty of Lake Dunstan, a picturesque destination in Otago, New Zealand, perfect for outdoor adventures and peaceful retreats.
Nestled in the stunning Otago region of New Zealand, Lake Dunstan offers visitors a serene escape into nature with breathtaking views, recreational activities, and a magical ambiance perfect for relaxation and adventure alike. Whether you're biking along the scenic trails or kayaking on the calm waters, this lake is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
A brief summary to Lake Dunstan
- Otago, NZ
Local tips
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard for a unique view of the lake's beauty.
- Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly in the Otago region.
- Check local maps for biking trails that offer scenic routes around the lake.
- Plan a picnic to enjoy by the lakeside, making the most of the serene environment.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Wanaka, start at the Wanaka i-SITE Visitor Information Centre located at 103 Ardmore Street. Head northeast on Ardmore Street towards the lakefront. Continue walking along the lakefront path, enjoying the beautiful views. Follow the path until you reach the Wanaka to Cromwell Cycle Trail, which is well signposted. Turn left onto the cycle trail and continue along the path. This trail will lead you towards Lake Dunstan. The distance is approximately 20 km, so be prepared for a long walk or take breaks at scenic spots along the way.
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Biking
If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bike from one of the local rental shops in Wanaka, such as Wanaka Bike Tours & Rentals. Start at the Wanaka i-SITE Visitor Information Centre and head northeast on Ardmore Street towards the lakefront. Join the Wanaka to Cromwell Cycle Trail, which is a dedicated cycling path. Follow the trail signs towards Lake Dunstan, which is approximately 20 km away. The bike ride should take around 1-1.5 hours, depending on your pace. Enjoy the stunning scenery along the way!
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Public Transport
While there is no direct public transport to Lake Dunstan from Wanaka, you can take a bus service. Check the local bus schedules for the Wanaka to Cromwell service. Start at the Wanaka i-SITE Visitor Information Centre, and walk to the nearest bus stop. Board the bus heading towards Cromwell. Inquire with the driver about stops near Lake Dunstan. Once you reach a suitable drop-off point, you may need to walk a short distance to reach the lake.
Discover more about Lake Dunstan
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Otago Goldfields Heritage Trust
3.2 km
Explore the Otago Goldfields Heritage Trust to uncover the fascinating history of New Zealand's gold mining era amidst stunning landscapes.
Roaring Meg Lookout
11.5 km
Experience breathtaking views at Roaring Meg Lookout, a premier observation deck in Cromwell, New Zealand, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Whatatorere
12.0 km
Explore Whatatorere, a historical landmark on State Highway 6, where New Zealand's rich heritage and stunning landscapes come together.
Snow Farm NZ
18.5 km
Discover the magic of winter at Snow Farm NZ, a premier ski resort in Cardrona Valley, offering unparalleled skiing and snowshoeing experiences.
Vallance Cottage
29.3 km
Explore Vallance Cottage in Alexandra, a historical treasure showcasing early New Zealand architecture amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Silver Fern Gallery
30.8 km
Explore Silver Fern Gallery for unique local artwork and handcrafted gifts that celebrate New Zealand's rich artistic heritage.
Arrowtown Chinese Settlement & Buckingham St
31.7 km
Explore the rich history and cultural heritage of the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement, a captivating glimpse into New Zealand's gold rush past.
Historic Arrowtown Chinese Settlement
31.8 km
Experience the rich history of the Historic Arrowtown Chinese Settlement, where the legacy of 19th-century Chinese miners comes alive amidst stunning Otago scenery.
Crossfire Wanaka
32.8 km
Experience the thrill of shooting in the stunning landscapes of Wānaka at Crossfire Wanaka, New Zealand's premier amusement center.
Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow
32.9 km
Immerse yourself in the thrilling experience of Warbirds Over Wanaka, an international airshow showcasing historic aircraft against stunning landscapes.
The Stoaker Room Wanaka
34.3 km
Experience unique culinary delights at The Stoaker Room in Wanaka, where stunning views and innovative dishes meet for an unforgettable dining experience.
Wanaka Rock Climbing
34.7 km
Discover the exhilarating world of rock climbing in Wanaka, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Wānaka Lavender Farm
35.2 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Wānaka Lavender Farm, where stunning lavender fields meet local flavors and serene landscapes in New Zealand.
Oasis Yurt Lodge
35.3 km
Experience the unique charm of Oasis Yurt Lodge in Wānaka, where nature meets comfort in a stunning retreat setting perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Rhyme X Reason Brewery
35.5 km
Discover the essence of craft brewing at Rhyme X Reason Brewery in Wānaka, offering unique beers and a vibrant atmosphere for all beer lovers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Jackson Orchards
1.7 km
Discover the natural beauty and delicious flavors of Jackson Orchards, a must-visit fruit picking destination in Cromwell, New Zealand.
Misha's Vineyard Tasting Room
1.9 km
Experience the exquisite wines and breathtaking views of Misha's Vineyard Tasting Room in Cromwell, New Zealand, a must-visit for wine enthusiasts.
Cromwell, Central Otago
2.3 km
Explore the historical charm and outdoor adventures in Cromwell, Central Otago, a gem of New Zealand's South Island.
Cromwell Heritage Precinct
3.4 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Cromwell Heritage Precinct, a must-see destination in New Zealand's stunning Central Otago.
Sequoia
3.4 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local artisan treasures at Sequoia in Cromwell, the perfect destination for memorable souvenirs.
The Tent House - Lavender
3.4 km
Discover the serene world of lavender at The Tent House in Cromwell, where nature's fragrance meets unique gifts and unforgettable experiences.
Quartz Reef Point
3.4 km
Discover the rich history of gold mining at Quartz Reef Point, a stunning landmark in Otago with breathtaking views of Lake Dunstan.
The Junction Lookout
3.4 km
Discover the stunning vistas of The Junction Lookout in Cromwell, New Zealand, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
The Bruce Jackson Lookout
3.5 km
Experience the stunning vistas and tranquil beauty of The Bruce Jackson Lookout in Northburn, New Zealand, a true gem for nature lovers and photographers.
Rose Creek Farm - Central Otago
4.4 km
Discover the charm of Rose Creek Farm in Central Otago, where stunning vineyards and warm hospitality create an unforgettable travel experience.
Highlands Motorsport Park
5.6 km
Experience the thrill of racing at Highlands Motorsport Park, a premier destination for motorsport enthusiasts in stunning Cromwell, New Zealand.
Highlands - Experience the Exceptional
5.6 km
Experience high-speed thrills and stunning scenery at Highlands, Cromwell's premier car racing track and tourist attraction.
Cromwell Chafer Beetle Nature Reserve
6.2 km
Explore the serene Cromwell Chafer Beetle Nature Reserve, a haven for wildlife lovers and a sanctuary for New Zealand's unique biodiversity.
Sarita Orchard
6.5 km
Experience the joy of fruit picking at Sarita Orchard in Cromwell, New Zealand, where nature's bounty awaits in a stunning landscape.
Jones Family Fruit Stall
7.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Cromwell at Jones Family Fruit Stall, where seasonal fruits and local produce await your taste buds.
Essential places to dine
The Stoaker Room Cromwell
1.9 km
Discover Cromwell's premier dining experience at The Stoaker Room - where local flavors meet exceptional service.
Pinot Junction
3.4 km
Discover Pinot Junction: A premier café and wine bar in Cromwell showcasing New Zealand's finest wines and delightful culinary creations.
Olivers Restaurant
20.2 km
Experience the finest local cuisine at Olivers Restaurant in Clyde - where fresh ingredients meet exceptional culinary artistry.
Chatto Creek Tavern
26.8 km
Experience authentic New Zealand flavors at Chatto Creek Tavern, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rustic charm.
The Runway Lounge
32.9 km
Discover The Runway Lounge: A charming restaurant at Wānaka Airport offering delicious local cuisine and stunning runway views for every traveler.
Jacobs Grill
34.5 km
Savor the essence of New Zealand at Jacobs Grill – where local flavors meet stunning landscapes in Wānaka.
Après by Cardrona & Treble Cone
34.7 km
Experience exquisite dining and breathtaking views at Après by Cardrona & Treble Cone in Wānaka – your ultimate alpine retreat.
Now Bao
35.5 km
Discover Now Bao in Wānaka - where culinary innovation meets delicious bao in a charming setting.
Bistro Gentil
35.8 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Bistro Gentil in Wānaka, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and local ingredients.
Charlie Brown Crêpes
36.4 km
Discover gourmet crêpes at Charlie Brown Crêpes in Wānaka—where sweet meets savory amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Federal Diner
36.5 km
Experience the best breakfast in Wānaka at Federal Diner – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Burrito Craft
36.5 km
Discover deliciously customizable burritos at Burrito Craft in Wānaka - where fresh ingredients meet vibrant flavors.
Firebird
36.5 km
Discover the ultimate fried chicken experience at Firebird in Wānaka—where flavor meets quality in every bite.
Best Kai Wānaka - Slow Cooked Meats
36.5 km
Discover the best slow-cooked meats in Wānaka at Best Kai Wānaka, where flavor meets convenience in a delightful takeaway experience.
Fudog
36.5 km
Experience culinary artistry at Fudog in Otago - where local flavors meet innovative cuisine for an unforgettable dining journey.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Folklore - Fine Goods
20.2 km
Explore Folklore - Fine Goods, a charming gift shop in Clyde offering unique homewares, jewelry, and local artworks that capture the essence of New Zealand.
the Old Schoolhouse
22.6 km
Discover unique artisan crafts and local treasures at The Old Schoolhouse, a charming gift shop in the scenic Cardrona Valley, New Zealand.
Little Peanuts - Handmade in Arrowtown NZ
30.7 km
Explore Little Peanuts in Arrowtown, NZ for unique handmade children's clothing and toys that make perfect gifts and souvenirs.
ThreadBare Wanaka
35.4 km
Explore the enchanting ThreadBare Wanaka, where vintage treasures and exquisite fabrics await in a charming setting.
The Napery by Pacific Linen - Wanaka
35.5 km
Explore The Napery in Wanaka: Your one-stop shop for yarn, fabrics, vintage clothing, and unique rental services.
Salvation Army Family Store Wānaka
35.5 km
Explore the Salvation Army Family Store Wānaka for unique second-hand treasures while supporting a charitable cause in a welcoming atmosphere.
Mountain Warehouse Wānaka
36.0 km
Discover the ultimate outdoor clothing and equipment at Mountain Warehouse Wānaka, your adventure starts here in the heart of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
The Warehouse Wānaka
36.1 km
Discover all you need at The Warehouse Wānaka, your ultimate shopping destination in the heart of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
The Next Chapter Wanaka
36.4 km
Discover a literary gem in Wānaka with The Next Chapter, a charming bookstore that offers a cozy atmosphere and a curated collection of books.
Organic Wholefoods Wanaka
36.4 km
Explore Organic Wholefoods Wanaka for fresh, local, and sustainable organic products that enrich your travel experience in this beautiful alpine town.
Wilson & Dorset
36.4 km
Explore Wilson & Dorset: A premier destination for exquisite sheepskin and wool products, offering unique home goods in the heart of Wānaka.
The Junction
36.4 km
Explore The Junction in Wānaka for unique gifts, local crafts, and stylish clothing that embody the spirit of New Zealand.
47Frocks
36.5 km
Discover unique fashion pieces at 47Frocks, Wānaka's premier boutique for stylish clothing and accessories.
Fearless Wanaka
36.5 km
Explore Fearless Wanaka, a boutique fashion accessories store offering unique items that celebrate New Zealand's local craftsmanship and style.
Bella of Wanaka
36.5 km
Explore Bella of Wanaka for unique women's fashion and accessories in the heart of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bannockburn Hotel - Wine Country Restaurant
8.4 km
Discover the culinary delights of Bannockburn Hotel, where local flavors and premium wines meet in a stunning wine country setting.
Cardrona Hotel
22.6 km
Discover the historic Cardrona Hotel, a charming retreat in the stunning Cardrona Valley, offering a cozy bar, delicious dining, and comfortable accommodations.
Ground Up Brewing
35.5 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Ground Up Brewing, Wānaka's premier craft brewery, where local ingredients meet exceptional brewing artistry.
Kamino - Coffee Shop & Eatery
36.5 km
Discover Kamino in Wānaka: A delightful coffee shop and eatery serving local flavors and a cozy ambiance perfect for relaxation.
Lake Bar
36.5 km
Experience the charm of Wānaka at Lake Bar, where stunning lake views meet delicious food and refreshing drinks in a relaxed atmosphere.
The Paddle & Pint
36.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of New Zealand at The Paddle & Pint, Wānaka's premier pub and restaurant, offering delightful cuisine and breathtaking views.
Cork Bar
36.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavor at Cork Bar in Wānaka – your perfect retreat for drinks and relaxation.
Woodys Sports Bar
36.6 km
Vibrant sports bar in Wānaka offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a lively atmosphere perfect for sports lovers and casual diners.
Wanaka Bullock Bar
36.7 km
Discover the lively Wanaka Bullock Bar, where great food, craft beverages, and sports unite in a vibrant setting against stunning alpine views.
Wanaka Brew Bar
36.7 km
Discover the best of New Zealand craft beer at Wanaka Brew Bar, where every sip tells a story amidst breathtaking alpine views.
Treehouse Wanaka
37.2 km
Experience the cozy ambiance and unique drink selection at Treehouse Wanaka, your perfect retreat in the heart of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
b.social - Wanaka Taproom & Eatery
37.2 km
Experience the best of Wanaka at b.social, where craft beers and delicious food meet in a vibrant atmosphere.
Aspiring Party Hire - Clear Marquee Hire
40.0 km
Aspiring Party Hire in Wānaka: Your premier choice for marquee and party equipment rentals for unforgettable events amidst stunning landscapes.
1876
43.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of 1876 in Queenstown, where great drinks and delicious food meet local charm in a vibrant sports bar setting.
Pig & Whistle Pub
43.5 km
Discover the heart of Queenstown at Pig & Whistle Pub, where British charm meets local flavor in a lively atmosphere.
