There’s a rare, magical quality to Fiordland. This remote corner of the South Island serves up scenery like no other place on earth: a dramatic, silent grandeur untainted by modern day life. Experience its splendour for yourself on our 5-day Milford Sound guided cycle tour. Here’s what awaits…

Day 1: Queenstown. Up to 46km
A relaxing day of riding to ease you into the saddle and explore the stunning scenery that surrounds Queenstown. We take a drive out to Glenorchy, considered the wildest side of the Wakatipu, and then pedal our way back to Queenstown, drinking in the lake and mountain vistas.

Day 2: Queenstown to Fiordland. 35-90kms
After a hearty breakfast, we set out along the narrow lakeside road to Kingston, home to the mighty Kingston Flyer steam train. After lunch, we drive to Lake Manapouri and walk a section of the Kepler Track. By late afternoon we’re back on the bikes for a meander through the spectacular Eglinton Valley and a chance to view the “Avenue of the Disappearing Mountain” – an optical illusion that causes the approaching mountain to get smaller rather than larger.

Day 3: Te Anau To Milford Sound. 37kms.
Your opportunity to ride one of the most scenic roads in the world. We’ll take our time, stopping to sample some of the short walks along the way, soak up the dramatic scenery and admire the ingenuity and toil of the men who built this road back in 1929, armed only with picks, shovels and sheer determination. We’ll coast through the Homer Tunnel before enjoying a 16km exhilarating descent to Milford Sound, where our floating night’s accommodation awaits. That’s right, tonight you’re sleeping on a boat! There’s time for a cruise of the Sound, a kayak and maybe even a dip, before we settle into calm, silent waters for the night.

Day 4: Milford Sound to Te Anau. 24-89kms
Set your alarm clock to experience dawn rising over the Sound – it’s truly breathtaking. After breakfast it’s back to dry land and a trek up Key Summit for a different perspective of this incredible landscape. Then it’s pedal to the metal for a late afternoon ride through the beautiful Eglinton Valley to Te Anau. Your evening is free to explore the town – you might fancy a night at the movies to see Ata Whenua – Shadowland, a film showcasing Fiordland’s extreme beauty.

Day 5: Te Anau To Queenstown. 36-58kms.
First stop of the day are the lovely Mavora Lakes, where closing scenes of Lord of the Rings were filmed. Then it’s on to the Vonn Valley for lunch. We’re signing off with a flourish – a farm style afternoon tea at Walter Peak Station before a steam-powered trip back to Queenstown aboard the TSS Earnslaw. She’s been puttering across the lake since 1912, originally carrying sheep, wool and food, today as a popular tourist attraction complete with piano and sing-song. What a fitting way to farewell your tour!

Take this tour
The Milford Sound tour is available from November through to April. Head here for exact dates. Tour costs $2275.00 NZD per person, which includes:

• Four nights of 3-star, twin share accommodation.
• Four breakfasts, three lunches and two dinners. (We leave you free to sample local cafes/restaurants on certain days).
• Support vehicle to whisk you up the steep bits.
• Luggage transfer for lightweight touring.
• Knowledgeable, friendly tour guide.
• High quality bike hire.
• Overnight accommodation on the Milford Sound.
• Cruise on the TSS Earnslaw
• DOC fees

Grade: 2. Moderate.

To book, Fire us an email simply send us an email.

Image: Ben Wiseley