Exploring off the Otago Central Rail Trail
While the Otago Central Rail Trail highlights many historic towns and incredible landscapes, there are a couple of hidden gems that deserve a detour!
St Bathans
St Bathan's is a historic gold mining town found on the edges of the Manuherikia Valley. After being a hotspot for gold, and then years and years of continuous and intensive sluicing, the Blue Lake was created. Naturally filled with water over time, this Blue Lake is a popular spot all year around!
Stop here for a drink at the local hotel, a picnic by the lake or a camp at the reserve.
Ophir
After gold was discovered in 1863, the Ophir township was a hive of activity. Lining the main street of Ophir was a post office, a bank, a bakery, a school, a gaol, churches, hotels, cottages and even a drapery.
With its historic character kept today, make sure to detour across the Daniel O'Connell suspension bridge and explore this quaint, authentic town.
