Explore five of NZ's most scenic and diverse cycle trails whilst visiting some of the country's most treasured locations on an 8 day guided tour. This unique itinerary has been designed to showcase the very best trails the South Island has to offer. New Zealand has a vast network of cycle trails throughout the country offering a range of diverse landscapes; 23 have been awarded the Great Rides status. The operator has selected the finest sections of the best FIVE trails for this epic 8 day tour.
Beginning in the garden city of Christchurch with a warm-up ride along the spectacular Summit Road following the rim of an extinct volcano, you'll then head to glimmering Lake Tekapo to spend 3 days riding the Alps to Ocean trail near Aoraki/Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. You'll cycle past the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps, turquoise glacier-fed lakes and lush pastures dotted with sheep, as far as Lake Aviemore. You'll then travel into Central Otago to take on the stunning Lake Dunstan Trail which winds through a deep gorge and past world-class Pinot Noir vineyards.
Next up is New Zealand's original 'Great Ride', the Otago Central Rail Trail, followed by the Roxburgh Gorge trail through another remote gorge which includes a scenic jet boat transfer. Your final ride explores the trails of Queenstown within the beautiful Lakes District, taking in the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown and the stunning Arrow River Bridges Trail.
Character-filled towns, comfortable accommodation and friendly welcomes are all part of the package, as is the passion and local knowledge of your guides.
This cycle tour is graded moderate. You will need a good level of fitness and be able to cycle 50-60km each day – as much as 95km on the longest day. The trail surfaces vary from hard packed to loose gravel yet all are purpose built for off-road cycling and are well maintained. The operator recommends training on gravel trails and completing a multi-day ride prior to your trip to get used to being in the saddle for long periods of time. The tour is fully supported and if at any stage you feel like having a rest from cycling you will be able to ride in the support vehicle.