Top 10% of guest reviews in this areaTop 10% of guest reviews in this area
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 5
Popular amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Air-conditioning
Outdoor space
Rooms & beds
4 bedrooms (sleeps 5)
Bedroom 1
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 2
2 Single Beds
Bedroom 3
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 4
1 Queen Bed
2 bathrooms
Bathroom 1
Toilet · Shower only
Bathroom 2
Toilet · Shower only
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area
About this property
The Crib - a cottage with character
‘The Crib’ is an authentic kiwi crib with two other units on a large 1200 sqm private sheltered property and views out to the Pisa Range.
It is a great place for games, laughter, good company, food, and generally relaxing and unwinding. The large flat section has space for parking, bikes and running around. The mature trees and orchard provide privacy and shade in summer.
The cottage began as two army huts in 1947, and has grown over the years. The original character has been retained and new ceiling insulation and a pellet burner now keep everyone warm in winter. An annex off the deck has a bedroom, heat pump and ensuite facilities. More recently we added a Mount Hutt Pod with another queen bed. These units provide separate spaces for adults and family, great for a quiet read and siesta in summer. The garage serves as a safe storage area for bikes and play equipment.
The Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail and swimming area is less than five minute’s walk. You can walk or cycle around the lakeshore towards Bannockburn and Clyde, or up the lake past Lowburn. There are a lot of great cycle trails being set up around the region. Golfers will find the 9th hole across the road. The indoor swimming pool, gym, supermarket and town centre are 10 - 15 minutes walk in the other direction.
Cromwell is a well-resourced small town situated centrally in a sunny basin between Wanaka, Queenstown and Alexandra. The area has outstanding vineyards, a local farmer’s market in summer, olive producers, and summer fruits. Picking cherries is one of our favourite summer activities. We bottle our own apricots, nectarines and peaches.
We want to keep the place as safe as possible for everyone, guests, visitors, our local manager, and the person who looks after the grounds. Please let us know if you have active Covid while you're staying so that we can keep everyone safe.
Special conditions: Linen and cleaning available by arrangement.
Minimum rental two nights, three nights in winter. This is because we turn the water off between 1 June and 30 September so that the pipes don't freeze when the place is unused.
NOTE: In keeping with the Kiwi bach tradition you are expected to: * Clean the house and do the dishes before you leave * Bring your own linen (towels/sheets and pillow cases/tea towels) There are non perishable staples available, (tea, coffee, herbs and spices, cooking oil etc). Because we don't live locally and want to minimise waste, we don't provide milk on arrival.
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Bring your own linen and towels, unless otherwise arranged,
Don't include children under 2 years in your head count so that they can stay for no charge
Important information
You need to know
Property # 20011463
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Cromwell
Located in Cromwell, this cottage is next to a golf course and on a lake. Lake Dunstan and Bannockburn Sluicings Walks reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Paintball Central and Kiwi Water Park. Discover the area's water adventures with fishing and swimming nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and mountain biking.
Cromwell Old Town Seed & Grain Cafe - 13 min walk
Rainbow Takeaway - 3 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is The Crib - a cottage with character pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at The Crib - a cottage with character?
As of 14 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Crib - a cottage with character on 17 May 2026 start from AU$172, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at The Crib - a cottage with character?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at The Crib - a cottage with character?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at The Crib - a cottage with character?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is The Crib - a cottage with character located?
This family-friendly Cromwell cottage is located on a lake, within a 15-minute walk of Cromwell Golf Course and Old Cromwell Town. Cromwell Shopping Centre and Lake Dunstan are also within 1 mile (2 km).
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
What a great place to stay, lots of room, close to the river for a swim and everything you need for a great family holiday. The host responds quickly and instructions are easy to follow.
No Host Present ,as We Like it ! & available by Phone , & Very Helpful !Plenty of Equipment for Enthusiastic Cooks !A Plentiful Kitchen Garden !& Bicycles as Well , Cromwell is Very Good for Cycling !
michael k.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Dec 2025
Its really nice when people appreciate what our old family crib has to offer, quirks and all!
Great location, such a cosy vibe that just makes you feel like relaxing! Host was so informative and helpful, communication excellent. Such a special spot would definitely stay again
We loved this classic Otago holiday crib. It had everything you needed and was super comfortable. The location was outstanding, close to the hills and river but only a short walk to the town centre. Would highly recommend.
Loved our stay with friends at this gorgeous home. The photos don't do it justice. The owner was extremely helpful and responded quickly to any queries. Fabulous yard and additional, seperate rooms, spacious and private, comfy and beautifully decorated. We will be staying again!
The property was well set up for a family to stay - the owner was in regular contact and we were encouraged to stay warm - important in a Cromwell winter! The pallet fire was great. Lots of sleeping areas that allowed privacy for various family members.
Easy walk to Lake Dunstan and to a play park, and not far from the shops. Really cute bach, with separate spaces for families that want a bit more privacy from each other. It made a relaxing base for our adventures. The host Martin was prompt and clear in his communication - he went out of his way to make sure our stay was a good one. Totally recommend this bach.
Great place to base ourselves, to explore the wider area. Plenty of space with the 2 sleepout areas. Place was clean, warm, with lots of character. All the amenities you need and everything functioning as it should. Lots of books and boardgames as well. Was nice to have bikes available in the shed, but we didn't use them. Easy to find, easy parking and convenient location. Definitely would stay again.
Mike d.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
About the host
Hosted by martor235
The crib has been in the Weston family since the mid 1950s. We hope that the newest fifth generation will have as much pleasure and enjoyment from staying as their forebears
What makes this property unique
A large sheltered private 1220 sqm property with trees and fruit trees, which offer shade and shelter from the prevailing weather. It is organically gardened.
The cottage has grown over the years and has a nostalgic feel with modern conveniences and comforts. There are two other stand-alone buildings for privacy and space.
We're opposite the golf course, close to the lake, play area, BMX track, and cycle trail in the old part of the town