6 Most Romantic Things to Do in Alexandra & Clyde for Couples

1. Cycle One of the Great Rides Together

Chances are, you’re in Alexandra and Clyde to do some cycling. If not, then you should be! From day rides on the Roxburgh Gorge Trail to the multi-day adventure of the Otago Central Rail Trail, Central Otago is home to some of the more premium cycle trails in the country, two of which are classed as New Zealand Great Rides. Local operators like Central Cycle Trail Co. (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor), Bike it Now (on Viator and Tripadvisor), Shebikeshebikes, Trail Journeys and more can get you up and running with cycle hire and shuttle transport to tackle the trails.

The Otago Central Rail Trail is New Zealand’s original “Great Ride” and covers 152km (94 miles) following an old railway route passing mountainous landscapes to dry desert-like scenery. Alternatively, the Clutha Gold Trail is another highlight, 73km (45 miles) following the Clutha River incorporating historical gold mining sites and charming villages. Find out more in the 5 Best Bike Trails in Alexandra & Clyde.

Location: Otago Central Rail Trail – Start from Albert Drive or State Highway 8, Clyde. Roxburgh Gorge – Starts from Southern historic bridge pier, Alexandra.

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2. Visit the Romantic and Historical Towns of Clyde or Ophir

Speaking for charming villages, Central Otago is home to arguably some of the most romantic villages in New Zealand. Clyde is one of them, often referred to as a “living museum” with its schist stone architecture established during the Otago Gold Rush and now harbouring cute cafes for a romantic lunch. Similarly, the town of Ophir is home to the country’s oldest running post office, where you can pick up a complimentary booklet with information on all the noteworthy buildings of the small settlement. Ophir also hosts some of the most romantic accommodation choices in Central Otago.

Location: Ophir – Ida Valley-Omakau Road, approximately 28km (17 miles) from Alexandra.

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3. Stroll Hand-in-Hand Through Jolendale Park

This is New Zealand, so you’re always going to find somewhere amazing to go for a stroll. One of the most endearing options in Alexandra is Jolendale Park, an arboretum with native and exotic trees mixed with rocky outcrops, old mining relics and a reservoir. Nearby, you’ll also find the Kamaka Walkway where it’s common to hear bellbirds singing in spring and summer. You might also want to enjoy a picnic by the picturesque Lanes Dam. Find out more about these attractions in the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Alexandra & Clyde.

Location: Jolendale Park – Peterson Place. Kamaka Walkway – Start halfway along Aronui Road or from Kamaka Crescent. Lanes Dam – 45 Aronui Road.

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4. Bask in the Vineyard Scenery with a Glass in Hand at Alexandra’s Wineries

The balmy Central Otago weather combined with a glass in hand; what could be more romantic? The wineries of Alexandra and Clyde can certainly provide this scene, with many opening their cellar doors in the summer months for tastings and platters. You can either visit them yourselves, using the listings we offer in the 10 Best Wineries in Alexandra or enjoy tastings at multiple wineries with Vine2Wine Uncorked wine tours. Additionally, some of the wineries offer accommodation, should you want to enhance the romance!

Location: See the 10 Best Wineries in Alexandra for winery locations.

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5. Indulge in a Date Night at One of the Boutique Cinemas

While it might seem unimaginative to go to the cinema for a date night, the cinemas in Alexandra and Clyde offer something a little different. Both the Central Cinema in Alexandra and the Clyde Cinema are boutique, so offer an air of charm that you won’t find in large city cinemas. Plus, the Clyde Cinema also has an on-site bistro so you can take a glass of wine or a sweet treat to accompany your movie.

Location: Central Cinema – 21 Centennial Avenue, Alexandra. Clyde Cinema – 6a Naylor Street, Clyde.

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6. Treat Your Loved One to Lunch at a Romantic Cafe

While Alexandra and Clyde offer wineries and a few elegant dining options, such as Olivers Restaurant listed in The Luxury Guide to Alexandra & Clyde and Paulina’s Bar, the cafes are truly where these towns shine. Enjoy the gorgeous gold-rush townscape of Clyde while dining outside The Old Clyde Bank. They serve hearty breakfast and lunch dishes to lighter meals and sweet treats from the cabinet. A gorgeous venue inside and out, The Courthouse Cafe serves well-presented cafe treats among a historic building and gardens with fresh flowers on the table. For more dining recommendations, head to The Foodie Guide to Alexandra & Clyde.

Location: Paulina’s Bar – 6 Naylor Street, Clyde. The Bank Cafe – 31 Sunderland Street. The Courthouse Cafe – 8 Centennial Avenue, Alexandra.

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