The Valley of the Vines
The Gibbston Valley is a narrow, sheltered river valley carved by the Kawarau River through the schist mountains east of Arrowtown — approximately 15 kilometres from the village, about 25 minutes by road. The valley’s unique microclimate (warm, dry, sun-drenched, with the schist rock walls radiating heat and the river moderating temperature extremes) supports the southernmost vineyards in the world, and the Pinot Noir produced here has earned Central Otago international acclaim.
A Gibbston Valley tour from Arrowtown combines the drive or ride through the Kawarau Gorge (one of Central Otago’s most dramatic landscapes — sheer schist cliffs, the turquoise Kawarau River, and the original bungy bridge visible from the road) with visits to the valley’s cellar doors, the cave wine storage at Gibbston Valley Winery, and often a cheese tasting or a platter lunch at one of the vineyard restaurants.
Beyond the Wine
The Kawarau Gorge is dramatic scenery in its own right — the road from Arrowtown to Gibbston follows the river through a steep-sided schist gorge, passing the Kawarau Bungy Bridge (the original commercial bungy jump site, established by A.J. Hackett in 1988) and the mining-era relics along the river.
The Gibbston Valley Cheesery at Gibbston Valley Winery produces artisan cheese using local Central Otago milk — a wine-and-cheese pairing that is native to the valley rather than imported from elsewhere.
The Gibbston River Trail (part of the Queenstown Trail network) follows the valley floor on a sealed cycling and walking path, providing an alternative to the road for visitors who want to experience the valley on foot or by bike.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from Arrowtown to Gibbston Valley?
By road: approximately 25 minutes via SH6 through the Kawarau Gorge. By bike: approximately 25 kilometres along the Queenstown Trail (2–3 hours including stops). Guided tours include transport from Arrowtown.
Can I visit Gibbston Valley without a tour?
Yes. The cellar doors are open to walk-in visitors during their published hours. If your group has a designated non-drinking driver, self-driving is straightforward. The valley is compact — all the major wineries are within a 5-kilometre stretch of the road.
What is the Gibbston Valley Cave?
Gibbston Valley Winery stores its wine in a cave system carved into the schist rock — the constant, naturally cool temperature (14–15°C) provides ideal ageing conditions. Cave tours are available, including tastings among the barrels.