Loop Road, RD 1, St Bathans

Don’t believe in ghosts? You might after a night in ‘Room 1’ at the Vulcan Hotel. While women report a ghostly apparition of a young woman, it’s men who get the close encounter of the ghostly kind. More than a few male guests have been woken by an unworldly cold gripping their necks. Scared? Don’t be. The Vulcan’s spectre is very much a one-room gal.

This ghost story is just part of the unique appeal of what must be Central Otago’s most photographed hotel. Built in 1882 of mud bricks, the Vulcan maintains its character throughout. This is not a façade to a modern do up. This is the real thing. Old-fashioned. Comfortable. Welcoming. Wonderful food with a la cart dining. Jude’s breakfasts will set you up for a day on the Rail Trail.

Mike and Jude Cavanagh also act as St Bathans host for nearby Constable Cottage and Gaol on behalf of owner Angela Middleton ( info@stbathansnz.co.nz, 0800 555 016). This sympathetically restored 19th century building is ideally elevated for sitting out on the verandah taking in the Blue Lake and ‘lunar’ landscape. A deep bath, self-catering kitchen, comfy beds plus mod cons like TV CD player and the opportunity to tell grandchildren about spending a night in gaol make this a Rail Trailer favourite. The house, gaol and a sleep out accommodates 8.

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