6 Day West Coast & Glaciers Cycle Tour
$2,380*
PER PERSON
Description
The wild West Coast of New Zealand is not to be missed! Explore the spectacular scenery by bike, bus, train and on foot as we journey from Queenstown to Christchurch. We cycle alongside spectacular alpine lakes before an exhilarating swoop down Haast Pass takes us to the crashing seas of the Tasman Ocean, with its lush rain forest edged roads. This can only be described as cycling at its best.Inclusions
- All breakfasts (excluding day 1), 6 lunches, and 3 evening meals
- A great guide and transport
- A Trek 7300 or 7500 bike with helmet and small pannier bags
- Accommodation as detailed based on a twin share basis with private bathroom facilities
- All activities as detailed, including the TranzAlpine Express and hike to the base of Fox Glacier
- Access and Concession fees paid to the Department of Conservation NZ Goods and Service Tax (GST)
Other Information
- 6 days
Grade: Moderate level
Activities: 6 day cycle
Accommodation: 5 nights motel/hotel accommodation
- Please click on Prices and Dates tab
Queenstown to Wanaka - Wanaka to Haast - Haast to Fox Glacier - Fox Glacier to Franz Josef Glacier - Franz Josef Glacierto Hokitika - Hokitika to Christchurch
Queenstown to Wanaka
Out from Queenstown we coach through to the old gold-mining town of Arrowtown, where we unload our bikes and cycle a short loop as a familiarisation ride. Strong riders can carry on biking towards the Crown Range, the rest of us head back to Arrowtown for morning tea. From here we travel by bus and bike over the Crown Range, with a lunch stop at the historic Cardrona Hotel. We continue cycling down the Cardrona Valley into the picturesque alpine village of Wanaka. Late afternoon you have the option of cycling on an easy local trail, the Fishermans Track which follows the banks of the Clutha River or enjoying some time in vibrant Wanaka. (L, D)
Riding distance: 45-78kms/28-49miles
Wanaka to Haast
An early cycle takes us to Lake Hawea. We drive to the top of the Haast Pass and enter the famous West Coast forests. We cycle down through the ‘Gates of Haast’ on sealed roads to the flats of the Landsborough River for lunch. Our route continues down the Haast River with its rainforest clad mountain slopes and numerous waterfalls until the days spectacular journey ends on the coast at Haast. An evening walk on the beach provides a chance to watch the sun set into the Tasman Ocean. (B, L, D)
Riding distance: 48-105kms/30-65miles
Haast to Fox Glacier
This morning we cycle peaceful forest roads to Bruce Bay and then onto Fox Glacier. The rest of the day is available for sightseeing in the township as well as providing the chance to take a scenic helicopter flight which is highly recommended. Maybe you would rather a trip to nearby Lake Matheson famous for its reflection views of the Southern Alps, or enjoy any of the local walks in the area. (B, L)
Riding distance: 49-115kms/31-71miles
Fox Glacier to Franz Josef Glacier
This morning we walk to the base of the mighty Fox Glacier. For those who want to challenge themselves an optional guided walk will take you onto the face of the glacier as it grinds down through the rainforest. The afternoon sees us cycling another West Coast challenge, the road between Fox and Franz Josef Glacier. (B, L)
Riding distance: 25kms/15.5miles
Franz Josef Glacierto Hokitika
With some spectacular views as a backdrop, we cycle through the podocarp forests to hidden Lake Ianthe. Throughout the day we will cycle and explore the numerous lakes, valleys and gold mines, as we continue up the coast to the rainforests of Lakes Kaniere and Mahinapua and the quiet roads and tracks that surround them. (B, L, D)
Riding distance: 63-93kms/39-58miles
Hokitika to Christchurch
From Hokitika township we travel by bus and bike on quiet inland roads through native forests to Lake Brunner. There are stunning lakeside views and swims before more scenic quiet roads take us back the West Coast highway. Here we stop to enjoy our final meal together at the recently restored historic Jackson’s Tavern. If you can drag yourself away from the ambience in the pub, there is the option to cycle some more through sweeping rural landscapes and beneath rugged mountain peaks to Arthurs Pass. Here we board the TranzAlpine Express train for a leisurely scenic trip back into Christchurch where our coach will meet and deliver you to your accommodation. (B, L)
Riding distance: 56kms/35miles
Tour Prices 2019/2020 |
|---|
| NZ$2,380 |
| Single Supplement ( extra ) NZ$655 |
Departure Dates 2019/2020 |
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| Nov 9th Queenstown A |
| Dec 8th Queenstown A |
| Jan 8th Queenstown A |
| Feb 5th Queenstown A |
| Mar 4th Queenstown A |
| Apr 2nd Queenstown A |
A: Available G: Guaranteed Departure C: Closed
