Clyde can be the start or finish of the Otago Central Rail Trail, and while it may be a small, it is a town big on attractions.
It is impossible not to be captivated by Clyde’s main street of 1800s gold rush buildings sympathetically repurposed as accommodation, restaurants and cafes, specialty shops and art galleries. Guided walks and cycle paths go past many lovely gold rush era cottages with long established gardens of rambling roses. In the 1980’s Clyde was thrust from a sleepy hollow into the public eye with the lead up and building of the Clyde Dam, NZ’s third largest hydroelectric dam. For those with a taste for huge scale engineering, follow the public footpath beside the road to the first lookout - 1km from town -- for views of the dam and power station. The dam also provides irrigation water to the area’s thriving orchards and vineyards. A further 500m up the hill, a second lookout provides commanding views over Lake Dunstan, the powerhouse, the Clutha River and Clyde.
Post Masters Accommodation offers 3 double bedrooms, refurbished to retain the quietly elegant and comfortable surroundings of the stone building.
Rates:$95 Queen or Twin, $125 Queen ensuite
Full house discount for groups of six
The stunning stone buildings at historic Olivers began as a general store supplying prospectors during the gold mining boom in the 1860s.
Rates:From $295 to $545 per night inclusive of freshly baked hot breakfast served in our stunning schist walled dining room or al fresco in Olivers private courtyard.
more infoYour Hosts Clare and Tony Welcome you to their one hectare modern Central Otago schist stone-clad Bed and Breakfast, close to Clyde / Alexandra, with easy access to the Rail Trail and a host of other activities - golf, boating, tramping, etc. plus several good local cafes, restaurants and wineries. We offer you relaxing accommodation in peaceful, scenic surroundings. No dogs, thank you.
1 x King bedroom with ensuite $170 per night
1 x Queen bedroom $150 per night
1 x Twin bedroom $140 per night
Heritage accommodation in a quiet private setting on Clyde's main street in close proximity to a choice of cafes, cinema and general store.
Rates:Dunstan House was built in 1898 in a grand statement of opulence as the very first two storied building in Central Otago. Located on the main street of historic Clyde it was, and remains, an iconic local building, instantly recognisable and rich in history.
Rates:A full range of rates is available to ensure all travellers are able to enjoy the comforts of Dunstan House.
Rooms with shared bathroom facilities are available from, $130
Ensuited rooms are available from $230
The Suite, with its own private lounge and ensuite is available from $265
more infoClyde Holiday Park – situated in the heart of sunny Central Otago come to Clyde and enjoy everything our part of New Zealand has to offer
Rates:Pricing starts from $20 per adult
more infoCome for the rooms - stay for the Experience!
Rates:From $175 - 280 (off-peak and peak season rates apply), Extra Adult $30.00, Extra Child from $15.00. Breakfast @$20
more infoThe Dunstan Hotel was built in 1904. A hearty meal or a quiet drink.
35 Sunderland Street. Ph: 03 449 2817
The Dairy is a Clyde institution and is a favorite stopping point for many a passing traveler and locals alike. Takeaways also available.
18 Sunderland Street. Ph: 03 449 2799
Tasty food, great coffee. Inside and outside options for hungry and thirsty cyclists.
31 Sunderland Street. Ph: 03 449 2955
There is a craft brewery (The Victoria Store Brewery), a bakery, deli and cafe.
34 Sunderland Street. Ph: 03 449 2805
Expect a warm welcome in these enchanting historic buildings and enjoy an appetizing snack or a delicious meal.
2 Blyth Street. Ph: 03 449 2488
Supermarket, groceries, beer, wine, foods, discount deals, local stores, lotto.
5 Fraser Street. Ph: 03 449 2718
Located just besides Clyde Cinema.
6 Naylor Street. Ph: 03 449 3089
The township of Clyde was typical of many of the gold mining settlements. A surprising number of original buildings from the gold mining era are still as true as the day they were built. Get the leaflet called 'Walk Around Historic CLYDE' which give you all information of historical buildings in the township. You can get it at the Bank Cafe or Dunstan House.
This historical museum houses a great collection of memorabilia relating to a history from Run Holding to the Dunstan Gold Rush. You will find domestic articles, records, books and photographs. Nearby is the Briar Herb Factory Museum Complex which displays the factory and machinery in its historic form. Open 3pm - 5pm Tuesday - Sunday (Closed May - August)
There are many great shops in Clyde. Worth visiting.
42 seat Cinema. Watch in comfort. Fully licensed with food and wine available.
Check what's on now. www.clydecinema.co.nz
6a Naylor Street. Ph: 03 449 2379
The Clyde Dam is easily viewed from the town. If you fancy a walk, follow the public footpath beside the road to the first lookout which is about 1km from town. This lookout looks over the dam and power station. A further 500m walk up the hill you will find the second lookout which views Lake Dunstan, the powerhouse, the Clutha River and Clyde township.
If you have the time, the Anniversary River Track that begins in Clyde and finishes in Alexandra is a great way to spend some time by bike or foot. It is sign posted 300 meters along Earnscleugh Road. Maps are available from the Alexandra information centre. The Clutha River never fails to impress. The track hugs the banks of the Clutha River most of the way to Clyde. There are many good picnic areas shaded by wilding willow trees.
This journey is on a pontoon craft, which is capable of seating 17 adults comfortably. This cruise explores the Roxburgh Gorge on the Clutha River that will take you back to the European and Chinese gold rush that happened on the banks of the Clutha River. Remains of miners cabins are hidden by Matagouri, Thyme, and spectacular schist rock. These tours give you a historic experience, which takes 75 minutes covering 50 km of the stunning Central Otago scenery. Customers can look forward to a commentary of the history of the area, with some of the focus being on places of interest such as the miner’s huts, rock shelters and of course the legendary Doctors Point Gold Mine. Ph: 022 068 3302
The Dunstan Golf Club. Green Fees $25.00 for 18 holes.
Sunderland Street. Ph:03 449 2729
Clyde Tennis Club is established back in 1877. All-weather surface.
Sunderland Street. Ph: 027 600 3236
Friday night doubles 6.00 pm Sunday Social Doubles 9.00 am / (10.am in Winter)
Wednesday Night Ladies 5.30 pm.
Clyde Bowling Club was established back in 1913. There is an inside rink, which you can play at all times.
Sunderland Street and Whitby Street. Ph: 03 449 2838
Lake Dunstan was formed as a result of the Clyde Dam. Easy access is available to most parts of the lake. For further information.
Each year, in mid-winter, the Clyde Playcentre organsies a market in the Memorial Hall, to raise funds for its activities.
There are many stalls offering such things as food, arts and crafts, books and the like.
We'll take some photos next winder so that you can see what it's all about!
Where: Memorial Hall, just along from the 4 Square store.
When: Mid-winter
Contact: Carole Haig 449 2557
This is the premiere event on Clyde's calendar and attracts thousands of visitors from near and far - some from very far!
Usually, all of the regions wine producers are represented and you can sample and purchase their fine products. There is food too - not just any food - but really special delectables to tempt your palate.
With great music and dozens of stalls there is something for everyone.
Where: In the main street of Clyde
When: Easter Sunday
Organised by: Alexandra Harriers & Walkers Club
Contacts: John Watson 448 5969 / John Thompson 448 7244
When: Mid - August
Entry forms available early July from local sports stores, our website or by contacting Jill Scott 448-9146.
Web site: www.alexandraharriers.orcon.net.nz
The single most important resource when travelling the Central Otago Rail Trail
A beautifully crafted book with amazing photography by Peter Andrews showing Central Otago as it truly is, one of the most rugged, extreme and beautiful locations on the planet. Stunning scenery, amazing and important historical and current information, detailed maps, lists of accommodation, frequently asked questions, where to eat, how far between towns, etc. It’s all in here.
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