This guided one-way tour from Queenstown to Middlemarch traces the routes once travelled by prospectors and pioneers. Begin in the alpine beauty of Queenstown before following the Kawarau Gorge and Gibbston wine region eastward through breathtaking mountain scenery. Every stop reveals another chapter of Otago’s rich past, from gold rush history to timeless rural landscapes.
Pause in Cromwell beside Lake Dunstan, savour morning tea at the historic Dunstan House in Clyde, and stroll across the graceful Ophir Bridge. The journey continues to the ghost town of St Bathans, where the Blue Lake shimmers against a backdrop of heritage buildings. Arriving in Middlemarch, surrounded by vast high country plains, you’ll find the perfect blend of history, tranquillity, and classic southern charm.
Tour Inclusions
Small group experience (max 15 guests)
Fully guided road journey from Queenstown to Middlemarch
Luxury Mercedes-Benz transport
Morning tea stop at Dunstan House (food available for purchase)
Water and snacks provided
Hotel pickup in Queenstown
Age Information
Adult: 15 years +
Children: 4-14 years
Infants: Under 4 years
Cancellations & Refunds
Outside 24 hours before travel: Full refund**
Within 24 hours before travel: No refund
Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.
Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*
Itinerary
Queenstown Your day begins with a hotel pickup in Queenstown, surrounded by alpine peaks and lake views. As you travel east, pass through the Gibbston wine region and the dramatic Kawarau Gorge, where steep cliffs and gold rush relics tell stories of a bygone era. The blend of adventure and history makes this first leg of the trip truly memorable.
Lake Dunstan & Cromwell Follow the glistening shores of Lake Dunstan to the historic town of Cromwell, once a bustling gold mining hub. Nestled where the Clutha and Kawarau Rivers meet, Cromwell’s old town charm and striking landscapes offer plenty of photo opportunities. It’s a scenic stretch that perfectly captures Central Otago’s rugged beauty.
Dunstan House, Clyde (30 mins) Take a break at Clyde’s elegant Dunstan House, an 1898 treasure that once welcomed weary gold miners. Enjoy morning tea in its inviting café and soak up the antique atmosphere that reflects the town’s golden past. This charming stop offers a taste of Central Otago hospitality at its finest.
Ophir Bridge Pause at the historic Ophir Bridge, a graceful 1880 suspension bridge spanning the Manuherikia River. Set in one of Otago’s oldest settlements, the bridge stands as a proud reminder of 19th-century engineering. Its quiet setting and rustic charm make it a perfect photo stop.
St Bathans Step back in time in St Bathans, an evocative ghost town shaped by the gold rush. The striking Blue Lake, formed by old mining operations, shimmers against the surrounding hills, creating an unforgettable scene. Wander among the preserved buildings and imagine life in this once-thriving settlement.
Middlemarch At the foot of the Rock and Pillar Range lies Middlemarch, a tranquil town brimming with southern warmth. As the gateway to the Otago Central Rail Trail, it offers a peaceful finale surrounded by wide skies and open landscapes. Whether you’re enjoying a coffee in a local café or taking in the high country views, Middlemarch captures the timeless essence of inland Otago.
Transfers and Shuttles
Small Group Tours
Half-Day Tours
