Discovering Clyde
Clyde, located near Lake Dunstan in New Zealand's Central Otago region, offers a picturesque setting with its stunning views and rich history. As you approach Clyde on State Highway 8, a side road leads to the Clyde Dam. This spot provides several excellent viewpoints overlooking the dam and the lake, with the gorge's desert hues contrasting beautifully with the lake's blues.
Exploring Clyde's Historic Charm
The small old town of Clyde is steeped in gold mining history, evident in its well-preserved stone buildings in the town centre. It's an ideal stop for those interested in exploring the area's past, with cafes and opportunities for hiking, cycling, and visiting local vineyards. Clyde serves as the starting point for the Otago Rail Trail, a popular multi-day cycling route that traces an old railway line to Middlemarch, and the end point for the Lake Dunstan Trail from Cromwell via Bannockburn..
How to Get There
To reach Clyde, travel along State Highway 8 from Alexandra to the southeast and Cromwell from the northwest. As you near Clyde, take the side road leading to the dam for a scenic detour. From the dam, it's just a couple of minutes to the heart of Clyde.
From Clyde, you can drive across the Clutha River on a historic bridge and explore the fruit-growing region on the west side of the river. Or head south to explore the astonishing Earnscleugh Tailings, left over from dredging the river for gold. A more adventurous option is to drive up the gravel Hawksburn Road for the view.
