5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Cromwell 🎒 [2023]

Where to Find Accommodation in Cromwell for Backpackers

In the heart of Central Otago, most travellers at least pass through Cromwell. However, with some of the best bike trails nearby, jet boat and gold mining tours, vineyard experiences and hikes, there are plenty of reasons to stay a while in Cromwell. With that in mind, here are some backpacker hostels in Cromwell worth considering!

Not only is Cromwell packed with plenty of things to do, but the town is also known as the “Fruit Bowl of the South”, which, for backpackers looking to make some quick money, means there is plenty of fruit orchard and vineyard work to scoop up! Learn more about working in the horticulture industry in our guide, Working a Fruit Picking Job in New Zealand.

1. Cromwell Backpackers

The popular Cromwell Backpackers is the one official backpacker hostels in Cromwell. The hostel features spacious dorms with no bunks, as well as private twin and king rooms. By only having 10 beds available, it never feels too crowded, so the hostel is well worth considering if you manage to book your spot. Other drawcards include free unlimited WiFi, espresso coffee, a TV lounge with streaming services, a fully-equipped kitchen, bike rental and a music room with instruments to jam! Check out where you can go with your bike rental in the 12 Best Bike Trails in Otago.

Check Cromwell Backpackers out:

2. Falcon’s Nest

Trying desperately to market this place as 30-person group accommodation, Falcon’s Nest puts up its individual rooms on platforms like Booking.com and HostelWorld in the meantime. You won’t get dorm rates, however, as each double, quad and six-bed dorm is hired out as a private room. The cheapest option is hiring a six-bed dorm for yourself (or your group). With that, you have access to a very modern facility with a large lounge, well-equipped kitchen, bathrooms and a barbecue area.

Check Falcon’s Nest out:

3. The Chalets Holiday Park

Another accommodation offering backpacker dorms in Cromwell is The Chalets Holiday Park. Choose from powered sites, tent sites, self-contained units, a holiday house, as well as affordable backpacker dorms and single rooms. For backpackers sticking around in Cromwell for work, The Chalets Holiday Park may be able to offer long-term accommodation on request. Plus, you can kick back at the on-site bar.

4. Bannockburn Domain Campground

A super affordable campground just 10 minutes’ drive out of Cromwell is the Bannockburn Domain Camp Ground. If you have your own camping gear or campervan, Bannockburn Domain is worth taking note of. Otherwise, check if they have availability in their basic twin cabins. There are modern shower blocks and a couple of different communal kitchens to choose from. Plus, it’s in the heart of the Cromwell vineyards and fruit orchards so make it a popular choice for those doing fruit picking work.

5. Lesley’s Bed and Breakfast

If all else fails, a private room at Lesley’s Bed and Breakfast won’t set you too far back. Located just off the main road between Cromwell and Queenstown, this homely and affordable stay includes breakfast and a choice of single, twin and queen rooms with shared bathrooms. Other things worth mentioning: hot drinks are supplied in your room, one of the bathrooms is mobility-friendly, and pets are allowed.

Check Lesley’s Bed and Breakfast out:

[CLOSED] Cromwell Holiday Park

Another great budget accommodation option in Cromwell is the Cromwell Holiday Park. With powered sites and tent sites, it’s ideal for campers. Those who would prefer a room have a choice of motel units, as well as standard units for under NZ$80. The holiday park also has a kitchen, laundry, dining, barbecue, shower blocks and more.

More About Cromwell for Backpackers

That’s it for our list of the best backpackers hostels in Cromwell. For more Cromwell tips, take a look at these other handy guides:

And if there’s anything else we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in our Otago – Guide for Backpackers.

Author

Robin C.

This article was reviewed and published by Robin, the co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. He has lived, worked and travelled across 16 different countries before calling New Zealand home. He has now spent over a decade in the New Zealand tourism industry, clocking in more than 600 activities across the country. He is passionate about sharing those experiences and advice on NZ Pocket Guide and its YouTube channel. Robin is also the co-founder of several other South Pacific travel guides.

Contact Robin via our contact page