Things to do around Lake Hawea

Crafted by glaciers over 10,000 years Lake Hawea is ringed by steep sided mountains with the snow-capped Southern Alps in the distance.

The classic U-shaped valleys formed by rivers of ice that ground their way to Cromwell and beyond before retreating left a legacy for the area’s inhabitants. The snow-fed lakes and rivers of the Upper Clutha are now a huge attraction for visitors to the area.

At 35 km in length, and much of its shoreline uninhabited, Lake Hawea is considered one of the gems. Like many of the southern glaciated waterways, the local schist rock gives it its distinctive blue colour, which at times is comparative to the spectacular waters of the Pacific or Mediterranean Oceans.

The clear, clean water is a magnet for boaties, paddleboarders and kiteboarders with its well-stocked trout population bringing anglers and fly fishers from afar. With Cross Hill sited on forest land on the lakes edge, generations of families and travellers seeking a nature break from the larger commercial resorts enjoy these waters every year.

Just along the lake’s edge from Cross Hill you’ll find the small township of Lake Hawea with its old school charm and friendly locals. With its general store, cafe and pub just up the hill, there is plenty of local amenities should you need them, before retreating back to the cocoon of your geodesic dome.

Extensive walking and cycling trails follow the lake’s edge toward John Creek with a number of picnic spots and viewpoints along the way. The Te Araroa trail, open to hikers and bikers alike, is growing in popularity and follows the Hawea river toward Wanaka. There is also a bowls club, tennis courts, children’s playground and even a small public library open a few days a week.

Established in 1971, The Camp at Lake Hawea is on the lake’s edge set in 15 hectares of natural parklands with extensive plantings and is home to Cross Hill Lodge & Domes.

For Cross Hill guests, it’s a great opportunity to meet others in a casual, village like atmosphere where you never know who you may meet.  The woodland, often compared to North American forests, is a welcoming place to connect with others and explore the lakeside.

The onsite Food Truck provides Good Joe barista coffee and a variety of healthy food options for breakfast. lunch and dinner. Please enquire about opening times and seasonal opening hours.

Our in-house massage service is just the thing after a day out exploring this stunning area. So why not book yourself in for some pampering to loosen those aching muscles after a bike ride down the Clutha track or a climb up Isthmus Peak. The ideal way to end your day and relax the body and mind ready for dinner at The Lodge. A private room has been set aside for massages, providing a private, quiet space to relax and unwind. To book, please do so prior to your stay to secure your preferred time or contact our lodge host on arrival.

Pricing: $175 – hour or $225 – 1.5hr

The Whiskey Room is located at a quiet end of The Lodge and is the perfect place to get some peace and quiet. A place to watch a bit of TV or curl-up and read a book and just have some quiet time to yourself. Sited to make the most of the morning light, when others have chosen to head out for the day, grab a coffee and settle into the lush environment designed to soothe and relax. Alternatively, after dinner why not retire with a glass of whiskey or port to continue the conversations started over dinner with other guests for a perfect end to the day.

If you’re a fan of local produce and paddock-to-plate inspired cuisine, you are definitely in the right place. The family’s Glen Dene station has a long, storied reputation of providing grass fed venison, beef and lamb from its high country and lake side pastures and you’ll experience a three-course degustation experience, made all the more special by exchanging stories with other guests at The Lodge.

No menu required, our chefs serve the best local produce available on the day for both breakfast and dinner. Rest assured, all dietary requirements and tastes can be catered for, just let us know when booking your trip any preferences or allergies you may have. Our lodge hosts will talk you through the night’s menu when you arrive.

We pride ourselves on our hospitality and from time-to-time we invite friends into The Lodge to join our guests for dinner. From chefs to winemakers, fishers and well-known locals, you never know who will join us to share stories, laughter and knowledge.

Our chef and hosts also serve a cooked and continental breakfast daily which you can enjoy at The Lodge while you soak up the forest and mountain surrounds.