Where to Stay in Alexandra or Clyde for Backpackers
Quaint and charming towns, New Zealand’s top bike trails, and loads of work opportunities for backpackers, no wonder you fancy staying awhile in Alexandra and Clyde. With so much travelling left to do, saving money on accommodation is a must! With that in mind, we’ve put together this list of backpacker hostels in Alexandra and Clyde!
[Update: There are no longer any hostels with dorm rooms left in Alexandra or Clyde. However, we have provided alternative backpacker accommodations on this list. This list of hostels in Alexandra and Clyde will be updated when more hostels become available].
What to Do in Alexandra and Clyde
Alexandra and Clyde are towns in the Central Otago region located along the stunning Clutha River. Their biggest claim to fame is the bike trails, including the Otago Central Rail Trail. However, with long days of sunny weather and plenty of fruit orchards, they are also a great base for backpackers looking for horticulture work. Just take a look at our Otago – Guide for Backpackers for some things to do while you’re in the area.
1. Criterion Club Hotel (Alexandra)
Affectionately known as “The Middle Pub” by locals, the Criterion Club Hotel might not be a hostel, but its extremely affordable single, double and triple rooms could be worth the extra few bucks for backpackers. While the rooms aren’t winning any style points, at least the hotel offers free WiFi and off-street parking and has a restaurant and pub downstairs. All in all, it’s ideal for a short stay in Alexandra. For more alternative cheap stays like this, take a look at the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Alexandra & Clyde.
Check Criterion Club Hotel out:
- Criterion Club Hotel on Booking.com
- Criterion Club Hotel on Trip.com
- Criterion Club Hotel on Expedia
![6 Best Backpacker Hostels in Alexandra & Clyde [2023]](https://nzpocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/132731186.jpg)
2. Hartley Arms Accommodation (Clyde)
For a “flashpacker” experience, take a look at the Hartley Arms Accommodation in Clyde. Formerly the Hartley Arms Backpackers, this small cottage has replaced its dorm with a twin-share, a private double and a triple room. With only three guest rooms in total, needless to say, it doesn’t get too crowded when making use of the shared kitchen, barbecue and TV lounge. For more stays with kitchen facilities, also take a look at the 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations in Alexandra & Clyde. Plus, see what there is to do in Clyde with the 10 Best Things to Do in Clyde.

3. Alexandra Holiday Park (Alexandra)
For more budget accommodation options in the Alexandra and Clyde area, take a look at the Alexandra Holiday Park. This holiday park is huge with 300+ powered sites, 100+ tent sites, as well as huts and cabins to sleep 1-9 people. Enjoy an attractive setting along the beautiful riverside with plenty of trees for shade. The holiday park also has a kitchen, showers/toilets, laundry and a small lounge. See what you could be getting up to in Alexandra with our 20 Best Things to Do in Alexandra.
4. Alexandra Tourist Park (Alexandra)
The Alexandra Tourist Park is another holiday park option in Alexandra with motel units, flats, cabins and studios for those on a budget. Of course, there are also plenty of tent and powered sites. Facilities include all the essential kitchen, showers, etc. as well as an outdoor swimming pool. Be aware that the Alexandra Tourist Park is closed for the months of May and June.

5. The Commercial Hotel – Backpackers (Roxburgh)
30 minutes south of Alexandra and along popular Central Otago bike trails is Roxburgh. Check out The Commercial Hotel for an affordable place for backpackers, whether you’re riding the trails or working on the local fruit orchards. This 90+ bed backpacker hostel also has kitchen facilities as well as all the expected essentials. Note that The Commercial Hotel is open from October to June, but other times can be arranged by appointment. Discover more hotel-style stays in the 20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Alexandra & Clyde.

[CLOSED] Alexandra Backpackers
If you’re looking for a no-nonsense budget accommodation in Alexandra then check out the Alexandra Backpackers. The hostel has all the essential facilities, such as lounge, kitchen and laundry, as well as bikes available to hire to hit those famous Otago bike trails! Rooms available are dorms, twins and doubles.
[CLOSED] Marj’s Place
A spacious backpacker hostel in Alexandra with lots of facilities, Marj’s Place is well worth considering for your stay in Alexandra. The backpacker accommodation has twin, triple and quadruple share dorms with three kitchens, two lounges, showers, toilets and more set in garden surroundings. There’s homestay accommodation available too. Long-term rates are available for seasonal workers in the area.
More About Alexandra and Clyde for Backpackers
That’s it for our list of the best backpacker hostels in Alexandra and Clyde. For more handy guides to plan your trip to the wine and cycling capital, check out these:
- 5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Cromwell
- 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Alexandra & Clyde
- 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Alexandra & Clyde
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Travel Guide to Alexandra & Clyde on a Budget.

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.