This South Island adventure starts at Picton, a picturesque fishing town at the northern tip of the South Island. It is a small town nestling under the bush-clad hills of Queen Charlotte Sound, named by Captain Cook in 1770. Starting with a magical ride around the Marlborough Sounds coastline, to Nelson, an attractive small city famous for its high sunshine hours. Nelson has become a haven for artists, craft breweries and boutique wineries. Climb gradually to Nelson Lakes National Park, and then it's down spectacular Buller Gorge to the wild West Coast. You will stay at Punakaiki, right by the beach and see Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Paparoa National Park. From here you can either return to Christchurch or continue exploring the west.
Enjoy friendly Kiwi hospitality, superb scenery and terrain that will delight cycle enthusiasts - knowing that each evening, there is a comfortable lodge and excellent cuisine awaiting you.
Your tour includes quiet, off the beaten track backroads, coastal terrain, national parks, the Nelson Lakes and wonderful cycling all around. Leaving Picton, you'll experience a spectacular ride through Queen Charlotte Drive, native bush and over Pelorus Bridge. You'll bike on quiet back roads eventually following the Motueka River and cycling Nelson Lakes National Park. The end of the trip will take you to Paparoa National Park and the impressive pancake rocks and blowholes at Punakaiki. A fantastic 7-day adventure exploring the top of the South Island.
The tour offers differing routes each day, depending on your riding ability and energy levels. The support vehicle is always available so you can cycle as much or as little as you wish.