We start with a magical ride around the Marlborough Sounds coastline, to Nelson Lakes National Park, and then it's down spectacular Buller Gorge to the wild West Coast. See Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Paparoa National Park.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Our South Island Adventure starts at Picton, a picturesque fishing town at the northern tip of the South Island. It is a small town (pop.2600) nestling under bush clad hills of Queen Charlotte Sound, named by Captain Cook in 1770. We meet at 1.00 pm at Beachcomber Inn, 27 Waikawa Rd, Picton. Your tour leader will hold a trip orientation meeting after lunch. We will then take a short ride on a quiet country road, to Waikawa Bay and return. (L), (D)
Day 2: We climb out of Picton along a delightful, twisty little road to Mahau Sound and the sleepy town of Havelock, from where the mail boat leaves. There is an attractive bush reserve at Pelorus Bridge. Through Rai Valley and over the climbs of Rai Saddle and Whangamoa Saddle we descend to the cathedral city of Nelson (pop 43,000), New Zealand's sunniest city with its neighboring orchards and sandy beaches. (B), (L), (D)
Day 3: We cycle up the Motueka Valley, a delightful quiet road that passes apple orchards, berry farms and wineries before reaching open sheep country. Through Golden Downs forest we continue to climb to St Arnaud, set in beech forest by beautiful Lake Rotoiti. (B), (L), (D)
Day 4: We take a short walk in the beech forest by the lake before starting the day's ride. From St Arnaud we follow the Buller River downhill through sheep farming country to Murchison. Once a gold mining town, it is best known for the devastating 1929 earthquake. (B), (L), (D)
Day 5: There is the option (at extra cost) to raft down the impressive Buller Gorge to Lyell for lunch, or cycle the road which follows the river. We then continue down hill along side the river, before heading for the sea and Westport. The sparsely populated West Coast is relatively isolated being cut off by the Southern Alps. Before dinner at Cape Foulwind there will be an opportunity to see seals and cheeky black wekas (flightless native birds). (B), (L), (D)
Day 6: At Charleston you may wish to go caving or underwater rafting. The rolling coastal road offers many spectacular views and delightful sandy coves. At Punakaiki we explore the fascinating Pancake Rocks and watch the sea surge through blow holes. (B), (D)
Day 7: The morning is free to spend at your leisure; options include swimming with dolphins and seals, kayaking, walks in Paparoa National Park, or simply relaxing in the beautiful surroundings. In the afternoon we will drive you over Arthur’s Pass to Christchurch where the tour ends. It is here we say farewell, a safe journey home and hope to see you again one day.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price Includes:
- 6 breakfasts
- 7 lunches
- 6 dinners
- Fully supported tour by comfortable mini van with a seat for everyone
- Purpose built trailer to carry bikes
- Knowledgeable friendly local guide
- Accommodation in mostly 3-star resorts, hotels and motels. Some 4-star
- Accommodation. An emphasis on individual, friendly lodges where available
- Dinner most nights
- Cooked breakfasts every day
- Picnic or café lunches some days
- Pedaltours cycling jersey or T-shirt
- Wine with final dinner, and wine and cheese briefings every 2-3 days
- Daily Maps, with profiles, one per cyclist, plus South Island map
Drink bottles, two
Price Excludes:
- Alcohol other than specified
- Flights
- Sightseeing other than specified
Cycle hire is an additional charge.
Note: There is a 10% discount on November trips.
Also see tour packages in:
Australia and Oceania
New Zealand
Bicycle Touring
National Parks
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