D1 ARRIVAL DAY – BLENHEIM, NZ 

Blenheim welcomes you with sunshine and quench your thirst and delight your taste buds. As the producer of 75% of New Zealand’s wine, it’s the perfect launching point for a bit of indulgence before we venture off into the hinterland. Today our team will assist with your bike assembly, provide an orientation and assist with airport transfers. We will also offer a self-supported shakedown spin this afternoon before our evening dining experience.

O/N Chateau Marlborough Hotel

D2 BLENHEIM - MIDDLEHURST

60.3 mi / 5,995 Ft
97.1 km / 1,827 m
16.4 mi pave 27% / 43.9 grvl 73%
26.5 Km pave / 70.6 km grvl

Today we will take the often-discussed but rarely traveled Acheron Road. It’s 207 km long, the route is nearly all dirt with a gradual climb taking us into the oasis of the Awatere Valley from Blenheim to Middlehurst Station and then further on to Hanmer Springs. We will break it up into two solid days of riding.

Tonight’s very special farm stay at The Quarters at Middlehurst Station is one of New Zealand's few remote High Country stays, and one of its finest. Nestled within sight of Middlehurst's prominent/iconic Mt Lookout, and a short walk from the Awatere Valley’s braided rivers. The Quarters offers a comfortable and stylish getaway retreat on an authentic New Zealand working sheep station.

The Macdonald family and The Quarters’ Private Chef are passionate about providing a special dining experience unique to Middlehurst Station. They serve premium produce, sourced from the farm and local producers, and serve their guests from an open plan kitchen in a luxurious family style setting.

O/N Middlehurst Station

D3 MIDDLEHURST - HANMER SPRINGS

66.3 mi / 4,339 Ft
106.7 km / 1,323 m
0.8 mi pave 1% / 65.5 mi grvl 99%
1.3 Km pave / 105.4 km grvl

Continue our route along the The Molesworth Muster Trail through the second half of the Acheron Road. The last bit of our ride is the descent of Jack's Pass: a steep and sometimes bumpy bit which will make the pools and hot springs in Hanmer Springs all the more enjoyable. Hammer Springs await, a naturally-heated waterpark where you can relax and recover from the day. Keep an eye out today for the ‘local’ traffic jams - (traffic jams here are frequently caused by sheep!).

O/N Cheltenham House or Hanmer Springs Hotel

D4 LAKE TEKAPO - LAKE OHAU LODGE

65 mi / 2,837 Ft
105 km / 865 m
18.4mi pave 28% / 47.1 mi grvl 72%
29.7 Km pave / 75.8 km grvl

Leave Hammer Springs in spectacular fashion: aboard a scenic flight down the spine of New Zealand’s alps. We’ll land at Lake Tekapo known for its azure blue color. This ride is pure glory, traveling along stunning lakes with mountains all around. We will see Mt. Cook (Aoraki to native New Zealanders) across Lake Pukaki and the views reminiscent of Lord of the Rings carry us all the way to Lake Ohau Lodge, where your room will offer a sunrise view out over the lake.

O/N Lake Ohau Lodge

D5 LAKE bENMORE - DANSEY’S PASS

87.5 mi / 5,899 Ft
140.9 km / 1,798 m
36.2 mi pave 41% / 51.4 mi grvl 59%
58.2 Km pave / 82.7 km grvl

Today, we bid farewell to the rugged MacKenzie high-country as we conclude our journey at Dansey's Pass, on the border of the Otago District. Our route commences at Lake Benmore, where we'll traverse a scenic off-road path that winds along the upper reaches of the lake. Continuing alongside Lake Aviemore on a gentle road at lake level, we'll then follow the Waitaki River, alternating between paved roads and off-road cycle paths.

The geological marvels near Otago have sculpted bulbous rock formations resembling elephants and other creatures. Our day culminates at Dansey's Pass Hotel, perched atop a lengthy gravel ascent. Erected in 1862, this lodge has provided cozy accommodations and hearty dining for weary travelers for over 160 years. It epitomizes the essence of remote New Zealand hospitality and warmth.

O/N Dansey’s Pass Hotel

D6 DANSEY’S PASS - DUNEDIN

102 mi / 7,200 Ft
164.8 Km / 2,400 m
39.6 mi pave 39% / 63.7 mi grvl 59%
63.7 Km pave / 101 km grvl

Leavin' the hospitality of Dansey's Pass behind, our ride today starts with easy pedalin' and expansive views. Before long, we hit the Central Otago Railtrail, which was the first long-distance rail trail in New Zealand and inspired the rest of the now expansive network of rail trails. After a short jaunt along the Central Otago Rail Trail, we head east towards the coast over another remote and beautiful gravel road with plenty of climbin' and descendin'. At the end of the day, we arrive in Dunedin.

Dunedin’s street layout is identical to Edinborough, Scotland, but the city planners neglected to take into account the topography. You’ll see what we mean when you arrive. We’ll sneak into Dunedin on the most gentle and quiet route possible: a gravel road through Leith Valley. At the end of this massive day, there is one more 'treat'. Baldwin Street: famously the steepest street in the world. Go for it if you have the guts!

O/N Fable Dunedin

D7 DUNEDIN - REST DAY

We reckon today's the perfect day to take a real break from biking and enjoy a layover in the city of Dunedin. But if your still eager for a spin, you can explore the breathtaking Otago Peninsula today. Nestled on the South Island's southeastern coast, this scenic gem promises an unforgettable journey for our chill ride today. With its rugged coastlines, flourishing wildlife, and charming historic villages, the Otago Peninsula offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural intrigue.

The peninsula's coastline boasts dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and hidden coves. Explore the historic architecture of Portobello, sample local cuisine in quaint cafes, and learn about the region's rich Maori and European heritage.

We recommend taking a walking tour of Dunedin to fully immerse yourself in the city's rich history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty. One must-see is the Dunedin Railway Station, an Edwardian Baroque-style building completed in 1906. Its mosaic floor, made up of nearly 750,000 tiles, and its beautiful stained glass windows make it one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand.

In the heart of the city, the Octagon is a vibrant plaza featuring landmarks such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Dunedin Public Art Gallery, and the historic Regent Theatre.

Another highlight is the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum, which provides a fascinating look into the region’s history. Art enthusiasts will enjoy the Dunedin Street Art Trail, showcasing vibrant murals by local and international artists.

Nature lovers should not miss the Dunedin Botanic Garden, the oldest in New Zealand, established in 1863. It features a wide variety of themed gardens, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.

Dunedin has developed a vibrant and thriving craft beer culture that has gained national and international recognition. Some of the notable breweries in the city include Emerson's Brewery, and the historical Speight's Brewery, one of the country's most iconic and well-loved breweries. Its history dates back to the mid-19th century, and it has played a significant role in New Zealand's brewing tradition. Lets pour a glass and maybe take a tour.

O/N Fable Dunedin

*Dinner on own

D8 BERWICK - LAKE ROXBURGH

80 mi / 4,600 Ft
127 Km / 1,500 m
35.2 mi pave 45% / 43.6 mi grvl 55%
56.7 Km pave / 70.1 km grvl

We kick off our day with a 30-minute drive to dodge the rush hour traffic in Dunedin. We hit the gravel roads pretty much straight away, following the Waipori River upstream. The first leg of the day is definitely the toughest: we climb over 1000 meters in the first 40 kilometers, including a brutal 3-kilometer stretch with an average grade of over 10%! The second part of our day is a lot more chilled as we hop onto the Clutha Gold Trail. This off-road path traces one of the main routes that opened up the historic Otago gold mining area. Nowadays, this region is dotted with several hydroelectric dams. Our stop for the night at Lake Roxburgh Lodge will be a much-needed oasis.

O/N Lake Roxburgh Lodge

D9 LAKE ROXBURGH - cROMWELL

72 mi / 4,800 Ft
115 Km / 1,600 m
21.3 mi pave 27% / 50.4 mi grvl 64%
34.2 Km pave / 81.2 km grvl

Today we’re tackling the not-yet-finished Roxburgh Gorge cycle trail. The standout of this off-road track is a 40-minute jetboat ride that links the two completed sections. We'll load our bikes onto the boat and take a scenic trip through the gorge.

When we reach Alexandra at kilometer 35, we’ve got two choices. The longer ride is split into four sections: the Roxburgh Gorge Trail, Central Otago Rail Trail, a gravel climb and descent over Thomson Pass, and finally, a paved section along Lake Cromwell. The shorter option is a more direct route from Lake Roxburgh to Cromwell via the new Lake Dunstan Cycle Path. This fully off-road cycle path isn’t like the rail trails we’ve done before. It was built specifically for cycling, carved right out of the cliffside. There are wooden causeways over the lake and even a floating coffee bar where we can stop for a cuppa.

Since the 2nd ride is shorter, you may have time at the end of the day to enjoy some wine tasting, which Cromwell and the Central Otago region are famous for.

Particularly known for their Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris, Cromwell boasts several renowned wineries. Some of the top vintners include Mt Difficulty, Akarua, Wooing Tree, Misha’s Vineyard, Peregrine Wines, and Carrick Wines—all offering daily tastings and tours.

O/N Harvest House

D10 cROMWELL - MOSSBURN

86 mi / 6,643 Ft
139 Km / 2,025 m
7.2 mi pave 8% / 79.5 mi grvl 92%
11.5 Km pave / 127.9 km grvl

The trip’s Queen Stage - one of the toughest and best days you'll have on a bike. It's mostly unpaved and packed with adventure. We’ll wrap up the Central Otago Rail Trail before riding along the Clutha River on a newly completed section.

Next, we tackle the Nevis Road, one of the most remote spots in the country. You'll cross over a dozen creeks and pass by abandoned gold mining settlements. As the highest public road in New Zealand, Nevis Road offers jaw-dropping views that are impossible to describe. The descent from Nevis Valley to Garston is stunning, and then it’s a relaxing 50-kilometer ride to Mossburn. Here, you’ll stay at the historic Mossburn Railway Hotel—a classic Kiwi experience with a bar, restaurant, and hotel that feels like stepping back in time.

O/N Mossburn Railway Hotel

D11 MOSSBURN - QUEENSTOWN

64 mi / 2,755 Ft
103 Km / 840 m
0.2 mi pave 0% / 64 mi grvl 100%
3 Km pave / 103 km grvl

Our last day of riding. Head out from the Mossburn Railway Hotel along another gravel path heading North to Mavora Lakes with the by-now familiar New Zealand scenery continuing to stun. The end of our ride today is along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and finishes at Walker Peak Station. Relax with a cup of tea or a cold beer before taking the TSS Earnslaw across the lake to Queenstown, a resort town known for adventure activities. Stay on past the trip end to bungee jump, mountain bike, or jet boat along rivers. 

O/N Millennium Hotel, Queenstown

D12 QUEENSTOWN

Departure day. It’s best to fly from Queenstown Airport (ZQN). We will assist you this morning in your departures and movements.