Sunrise views, pristine grooming and many, many espressos is how I will remember Cardrona Ski Resort in New Zealand. It was a rare solo ski excursion at this South Island gem; not a bad location for a contemplative day. As with most Kiwi resorts, snow can be a little touch-and-go, so it was sweet to have some fun, soft snow to play around in when I had my chance at it.
I took a very early ride up the winding access road with a buddy who works with the racing program, affording me sunrise vistas like only the Southern Alps can serve up. Let me tell you: it never gets old. Ripping turns on pristinely groomed runs, I skied my way over to the Captain’s Cafe to grab a coffee and a snack. Full advantage of the perfect bluebird day was taken when I stepped outside past the crowded decks and on to a rock ledge to take in the scenery. It’s one of those jaw dropping views that almost makes the skiing take a back seat… almost. I was especially smitten with my coffee cup. Apparently, the feeling was mutual.
Ski Gypsy Tips:
- This has to be the best resort in New Zealand for children’s lessons. Excellent facilities and instructors are on offer for a fun time for kids of all ages.
- There are some great steeps to be had, but the terrain is far more beginner and intermediate friendly. Thrill seekers should visit Wanaka’s other resort for out-of-this-world chutes: Treble Cone.
- Cardrona, not unlike the Remarkables in Queenstown, has quite the extensive terrain park set-up so bring your twin tips.
- The season is set to run until October 5th, but the best snow conditions are now. From mid-September, expect warmer, spring-like conditions.
I’ll be a woman of few words for this post and suggest checking-out a web based series called “Stagging Around” by John-Jo Ritson at Flashworks Media. A definite snowboard angle is on showcase in these (I know, gasp) and they capture the spirit of Cardies pretty perfectly.
<iframe src=”//player.vimeo.com/video/103036490″ width=”450″ height=”253″ frameborder=”0″ webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen allowfullscreen></iframe> <p><a href=”http://vimeo.com/103036490″>Stagging Around : Ep 4 : Captains Shred</a> from <a href=”http://vimeo.com/flashworksmedia”>John-Jo Ritson</a> on <a href=”https://vimeo.com”>Vimeo</a>.</p>
Winter is coming,
K