You’ve decided 2017 is the year you tackle your first cycle tour. Now you’ve just got to decide which one. To give you a hand, here are five, guided bike tours that are suitable for newbie riders. These are all easy or moderate tours, meaning they offer flatter terrain and lower daily distances – perfect for finding your touring legs.
The Otago Rail Trail
Mainly flat, off-road riding that passes through old goldmining towns, river gorges, tunnels and viaducts. There are options for three-day and five-day tours.
Alps 2 Ocean Trail
Drink in the stunning beauty of the Mackenzie Country, bathe in the Lake Tekapo hot pools, get up close with majestic Mt Cook, and wander the Victorian Quarter in Oamaru. Five day and six day tours are available.
5 Day Wellington Harbour to Greytown Cycle Tour
A mixture of trail and on-road riding, that combines the Rimutaka Cycle Trail, the wild beauty of the Wairarapa coastline and the vineyards of Martinborough.
5 Day West Coast Wilderness Trail
Well-formed surfaces, easy terrain and scenery that includes glorious mountain, river, lake and forest vistas. You’ll visit the historic goldmining town of Ross, experience the many delights of Hokitika and pay a visit to a local carver of Pounamu (greenstone).
9 Day Twin Trails Christchurch to Queenstown
Alps to Ocean plus Otago Rail Trail. This is a journey rich in cultural heritage, epic vistas and tantalising extras. Includes a rest day in Oamaru, and ends in adventure-filled Queenstown.
Got questions? We’ve got answers:
What happens if I need to take a break from the bike during the day?
On guided tours, your support vehicle will never be far away. Just let your tour guide know you’d like a breather and it’ll be summoned to your side.
What will the weather be like?
All our guided tours run through the summer and autumn months, which offer the most settled weather. Yes, it can still rain (so bring warm and waterproof clothing) but generally you’ll enjoy clear, sunny days and warm to hot temperatures.
How much training do I need to do beforehand?
We definitely recommend getting some bike time in before you undertake a tour – you’ll feel more confident and it’ll make the riding more enjoyable. Ideally, you want to be riding three times a week in the run-up to your tour, and to be able to comfortably ride the average daily distance. The earlier you start training the better, since you’ll be giving your body more time to adapt to the saddle and get stronger. Try to avoid cramming in lots of sessions right before you leave – you might end up injuring yourself.
Is food included?
Most of your meals are included in the price of your tour. These vary between shared, family-style dinners at the end of the day, big lunches at scenic spots along the route, and opportunities to dine independently and discover local cafes and restaurants. Check the individual tour for exact meal details.
Got a question not answered here? Send us an email and we’ll help you out.
Have a great week,
Steve
Image: Stunning scenery on the Alps 2 Ocean trail.
