G is also for Gin
We love supporting local at The Cottages at Lake Hayes, and are spoilt for choice when it comes to gin distilleries. And next weekend, the New Zealand International Gin Festival is being held in Arrowtown!
New Zealand International Gin Festival is being held this Autumn in our very own favourite little town, Arrowtown.
The New Zealand International Gin Festival will bring gin drinkers and gin distilleries from all over the world together in Arrowtown over the weekend of 24 - 25 March 2023.
We love supporting local at The Cottages at Lake Hayes and are spoilt for choice with many local gin distilleries around us. It's not just about the wineries down here!
Our three favourite local gins are Broken Heart, The Source by Cardrona Distillery and Rifters.
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Broken Heart now also have a gin garden, aptly named the Gin Garden, only 15 minutes from The Cottages, where they can arrange a gin tasting for you. Got to love their tag line “Created in Paradise”.
If you fancy going a little further afield, set off before lunch for a scenic drive over the Crown Mountain range road and in just 30 minutes from The Cottages you will find yourself at the gorgeous iconic old worldly Cardrona Hotel. Grab some lunch and a pulled pint before heading a few minutes further down the road to the Cardrona Distillery. Sign yourself up for a tour of their distillery, and whilst their whisky is ageing its way to being a classic, their The Source gin already is and is personally my favourite.
We also love the story of Rifters, created by two local builders Hamish and Stu, from humble beginnings in their garage to winning multiple awards around the globe. Rifters comes in a beautiful blue bottle that was coloured to match the beautiful lakes and rivers around Arrowtown, including our very own Lake Hayes.
We recommend enjoying a classic G&T or a more exotic gin cocktail at either or both of our two favourite Arrowtown bars - The Balcony at Dorothy Browns, where we highly recommend the Rhubarb Sour before or after a movie, or just down the road at La Rumbla where they make a mean Cardrona The Source Gin and Tonic with a sprig of local thyme rubbed in honey - it’s all about the garnish !
And for something truly special, talk to Nick at Kim Clifford Distillery. Nick has a selection of his own label 1963 gin in a variety of delicious flavours - butterfly pea flower anyone? However, what is truly special is that Nick can create a bespoke gin just for you - imagine your very own designed label with your personally chosen balance of botanicals - as Nick so lovingly describes his process he “puts your personality in bottle” - like a Paris perfumery but to drink not to wear - what a treat or special gift! Pop through the Kawarau gorge and visit him at his distillery in Cromwell - only 30 minutes from The Cottages for a very special day out.
What our guests had to say
Amazing experience!! Amazing place to stay, highly recommend. They have thought of everything with lots of lovely finishing touches, also great beds and linen which we love! our kids loved the hot tub and fire pit. This place was the ideal location too
Perryfamily530
A Wonderful stay We had high expectations of the cottages from word of mouth recommendations and they did not disappoint. Very tastefully furnished, high quality everything throughout and fantastic attention to detail, a very luxurious stay and one we highly recommend.
Benna McC
Great base to explore We had a great stay in the very well designed cottages, that provided privacy and space. The location meant everything was super easy - direct access to the lake and loop track walk, a close drive to the most beautiful parts and restaurants of the Arrowtown and Queenstown...
Rich T
Cant wait to come back and stay again! Well equipped cottages with stunning outlook over looking Lake Hayes. Easy park up to the front door access to each cottage which has two king size bedrooms and spacious en-suites each, along with a full kitchen and lovely dining/sitting area. Perfect for...
Fussy Traveller 2
The cottages are very spacious, beautifully designed, and decorated. They are in a wonderful location overlooking Lake Hayes, close to both Arrowtown and Queenstown. I would recommend the cottages for a long weekend.
Jason
Delightful stay Great stay at the cottages at lake Hayes. Each of the cottages are tastefully done, great big sliding windows capturing the best views. Warm, lots of light, spacious bedrooms with ensuites. Perfect for family visits or friends. So close to Amisfield, Akarua, arrowtown and...
Woods295
Everything was perfect! We stayed here for 4 nights and it was amazing! Beautiful part of the area but still close to Queenstown, Arrowtown and the local wineries. The Lake Hayes walking path is right out the front of the cottages. There is an open fire, underfloor heating, divine throw rugs...
Kerry
These cottages are the best! Spectacular view over the lake & spaciously set up with a great outdoor fire pit for evening drinks. Modern design inside with great window seats and large windows that open up. Awesomely comfy beds! We took 3 cottages for a girls weekend, location near Arrowtown...
Ange
Did NOT want to leave Absolutely loved the cottages! Chilled bubbles in the fridge, chocolate and a handwritten welcome note. Hot tub was amazing, the gardens, clean place and comfortable. Just what we needed. Everything was awesome! Thank you!
CV2DV
Exceptionally beautiful stay. Stunning cottage and location, with very thoughtful and generous hosts. We loved the local art that was showcased too - a vibrant and unique collection.
Michelle