The popular Lake Dunstan trail lives up to expectations
Soak up the exceptional views on a bike tour of NZ
Enjoy a tour that encompasses some of the best biking in the region
Bike tour NZ's legendary rail trail
Explore a superb part of the South Island by bike

Lake Dunstan and Otago Central Rail Trail

Duration
5 days
Site savings
$18
From
$1,684 USD

Ride through an array of spectacular southern landscapes on a fully guided and supported trip taking in both the Lake Dunstan Trail and Otago Central Rail Trail. The adventure begins with a warm-up ride alongside the shimmering waters of Lake Dunstan before you have the option to ride through the dramatic Cromwell Gorge on the new Lake Dunstan Trail.

  • Category
    Trail Riding
  • Type
    Fully Guided
  • Duration
    5 days
  • Culture Level
    Familiar
  • Skill Level
    1 - Beginner
  • Activity Level
    2 - Moderate
  • Elevation
    3 - Intermediate
  • Terrain
    Rugged
  • Distance
    118.1 miles
  • Avg. Daily Distance
    23.6 miles
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5.0
Awesome
from 28 reviews
Accommodation
5.0
Bikes
5.0
Communication
5.0
Meals
5.0
Route
5.0
Scenery
5.0
Service
5.0
Value
5.0
Overall Rating:

Mariska / Maggie Mashlan / Rainbow | Huntington Hamilton
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

We had a really good trip with Sean and Fiona. I was unwell and not able to fully engage in the cycling, but it was no trouble with the fully supported trip. I was able to ride in the bus and be dropped off to do short streches of the trail as I felt able. Sean and Fiona took great care and with their friendly and inclusive personalities made the trip that bit more special. Thank you.


Overall Rating:

Hugh Ross-Taylor
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

We had a wonderful trip being very well looked after by our guides Shaun and Fiona. A very happy group with absolutely nothing lacking in our meals and accommodation we would highly recommend [the tour operator] for another trip.


Overall Rating:

Donna Rutherford
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

What a fantastic trip with a wonderful guide and support bus driver and a great company. It was an opportunity to meet people amidst beautiful Autumn scenery, what a setting! I loved the daily rides on such a stunning trail, the stops for photographing, the dinners where we shared our daily experiences and laughter. Everything was well organized and supported and I would recommend travel with [the tour operator] to anyone. In fact, I am already planning my next trip with them!!


Overall Rating:

Julie Mathews
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Awesome trip! The guides were great, really knowledgeable on the history of the different locations we visited. The accommodation was varied and really lovely, especially Dunstan House. We were well fed, with the snacks and the meals that were supplied. The bikes were well maintained and easy to use. I'd do it again tomorrow!


Overall Rating:

Kyoko HIRANO
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

It is a pity that I can't rate more than five stars. This trip was literally the very best cycling tour. My anxiety about cycling such a long distance (in total 220km!) and keeping up with other customers was banished by the great guides, Wayne and Dave. They were really professional guides, mechanics and entertainers!! Beautiful scenery, comfortable accommodation, friendly local people, all in all, this was a great adventure!!!


Overall Rating:

Gerald D
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

A perfect holiday balancing some healthy effort, great company and tons of interesting local destinations. Food and accom suited perfectly. Easy ride with great scenery and destinations so don't hesitate. Take your time and enjoy.


Overall Rating:

Elinor Jean R
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Loved this ride from Queenstown across the southern part of the South Island. The daily cycling distances were totally manageable, the scenery was spectacular and the food and lodgings were great. Our guide, Chantal, was always at the right place at the right time to provide a snack, a warm drink or just an encouraging word.


Overall Rating:

Michelle S
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

This was awesome trip, we had the most extreme weather conditions but our guides worked behind the scenes re-organizing and rescheduling so we could still had a week of adventure. Have been wanting to ride the Rail Trail for years but working out the logistics was in the too hard basket so when I saw a guided and fully organized trip advertised I was sold.


Overall Rating:

Reg and Louise S
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Value for money was excellent. The bikes, accommodation, food for the guides were excellent. Nothing was a problem and we weren't rushed at any stage.


Overall Rating:

Laurie and Kate Smith
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Everything on the trip was great. Nothing was too much trouble for the guides. Accommodation and food excellent. Guides managed the tour well and then we had excellent knowledge to share with the riders. Good value for money. The highlight of the trip was seeing snow on the mountains and the train trip.


Overall Rating:

The Stapletons
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Excellent trip. Very well organized and ran very smoothly. Fantastic food, amazing guides and great cycling! Bring warm clothes & prepare for any weather!


Overall Rating:

Kym Y
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

I loved being outside and doing something energetic for my holiday. I'm already thinking of what's next! Don't be afraid to request an e-bike.


Overall Rating:

Sam and Carmel P
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Wonderful, with plenty of variety/options along the way. The guides made it comfortable for us to enjoy and attention to detail was 2nd to none. Recommend that the ladies bikes have drink holders attached to the frame.


Overall Rating:

Healther and Andrew C
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Ange and Lisa were excellent and very friendly, helpful and caring. The scheduling was well-timed and never felt under pressure. The accommodation and meals were much better than expected. The experience was everything we hoped for and more. We were very lucky with the perfect weather. Awesome trip!


Overall Rating:

Sue B
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Overall terrific experience that may have converted me to regular cycling holidays. Loved the scenery, the satisfaction of being physically fatigued at the end of the day. Happy down to earth guides and friendly hosts at B&Bs. Bike (e-bike) comfortable. If not a regular rider, do some spin classes or borrow a bike for some trial runs beforehand.


Overall Rating:

Anna Z
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

This was my first bike riding trip, and I wasn't sure what to expect. I found [the tour operator] to be a very professional and well organized group. As well as offering individual consideration to all riders, the guides knowledge of the area was amazing. Nothing was too much trouble and Sue and Hayleigh went above and beyond to ensure our group had the best possible experience. I would certainly recommend this trip for other bike riders.


Overall Rating:

Sue V
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Everything was wonderful. The guides were endlessly patient, often repeating instructions to those who missed out (or were talking). The trip was so scenic. Loved the accommodation and food choices -so unique, specific to NZ and great value.


Overall Rating:

Stan
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Great activity for escaping the northern winter. The route is interesting and not at all steep. Guides are engaged and really try hard to help the clients have a great trip. A+. [The tour operator] has accurate write up. The weather is the big variable So come prepared for wet or dry, cold or hot, and what you don't need for the day goes in the support vehicle.


Overall Rating:

Sherry
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Friendly, efficient hardworking guides led us on journey through amazing land. Comfortable accommodations, delicious meals. Wish we had more time to spend in Dunedin and Oamaru. Hotel hosts were great, restaurants too. Oversized desserts at Clyde were delish but way too much, felt bad leaving so much. Vegetables much appreciated! Hard to find salads. Ryan very personable, Ange too, and good management of our limited time when it felt a bit rushed. Pack light. Stop and enjoy the sights and people. Don't rush.


Overall Rating:

Glen
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Well organized with interesting cycle options on day one and five. Felt early on that we could do more distance but by the end was pleased that the pace was very good across the five days. Guides were clearly very experienced and gave clear instructions. The accommodation was of a high standard and I particularly enjoyed the Dunston Guest House in Clyde. Evening meals very good and breakfast more than adequate. I appreciated the eggs on day three. It is a great journey to do and the fully guided option was the way to go with lots of side trips to things off the trail. A fantastic experience. My only suggestion for improvement would be provision of chilled water in the hotter months.


Overall Rating:

Angelle Snyder
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Wonderful trip overall. The guides were simply the best!


Overall Rating:

Gina
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Our guides were excellent! I loved the cycling but also greatly enjoyed the additional side trips as well. I wouldn't change a thing about this trip.


Overall Rating:

Julie
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Great guides, beautiful scenery, great cycling!


Overall Rating:

Marilyn
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

This trip was well planned and well paced. Beautiful scenery, good food and great guides. The optional ride this first afternoon (Clyde to Alexandra along the river) was a great recommendation- not to be missed. Some of the Rail Trail was a bit rougher than I expected- loose gravel - but that is the nature of Rail Trails.The guides met all my needs and then some. Instructions and information was always clear and helpful. The itinerary met the needs of our group. The distances and details seemed appropriate. We were looking for a supported trip and the website information indicated this trip met our criteria. We wanted Trails not roads with cars. We had a particularly hot week. I would have packed a wash cloth or wipes. Ride before you come so your butt is ready.


Overall Rating:

Jane M
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Had a fantastic week and would highly recommend this to anyone- even with bad knees the guides supported me through.


Overall Rating:

Tara Pinochi
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

Simply the best cycling holiday i've ever done. Thank you guys!


Overall Rating:

Faye Lovell
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

This has everything - great cycling (fantastic bikes), wonderful scenery, history, great food, great comfort, fun


Overall Rating:

Tania Paris
(Review obtained from Tour Operator)

The people, the snacks. Everything was perfect.