Alps to Ocean End to End

The Alps to Ocean End to End cycle was simply excellent, I could not fault it. It was so well organised, the guides Rudi and Emma were very attentive and knowledgeable. The cycle route was stunning and well paced, the variety of accommodation was great, particularly at the shearer’s accommodation and the glamping where we had home made food, it made for great camaraderie. Even though we had E bikes one had to be very fit and used to gravel and stony bumpy tracks. The only criticism would be that the tour description should warn people, especially those riding e bikes that it is quite tough as most e bikers would be used to a paved path and the tour could have clients not capable of riding these trails.

The Alps to Ocean End to End trip was fantastic!. Rudy and Emma were excellent guides. The trail itself is quite varied with dirt paths, gravel roads, rocky trails, climbs, ascents, and meadows all with magnificent vistas of the South Island. Some portions are technically challenging but the e-bikes made them possible for us. (we are in our early 70's)

The scenery of NZ is just breath taking. The guides were well versed in the geology of the area and kept the bikes in working order. Times and locations of all meals and meeting points were clear and timely. In addition to the terrific organisation of the trip the guides and the riders all seemed to be having quite a bit of fun.

Apart from blisters on my bum I thought this trip was stunning - our two guides were so inclusive, the tour group was amazing, friendly and helpful. I'm 75 and in the week leading up to the "event" I had doubts about my fitness and skill. I needn't have worried - I had an eBike and challenged myself to ride as much as possible on no power; sometimes the Little, Red Engine chant in my mind gave up -"I think I can, I think I can, I think I can (nearly to the top), I think I ....damn it!" Pressed the eco button. On a couple of long downhill "coasts" some of us challenged each other to see what speeds we reached. My room-mate got to 63kmh, an Aussie woman to 68.3 and I got to 68 - wow!!