Best Of The Great Taste Trail Four Day Ride

The Great Taste Trail is a terrific way to tour the attractions of the Top of the South Island.
Its incredible range of scenery is a fabulous feast for the eyes: urban and arty Nelson, the tidal ebb and flow of the Waimea Estuary and rolling farmland and vineyards. Along the way you can take time to discover all manner of attractions – from art galleries and boutique shopping, to fruit stalls, cafes, craft beer pubs and winery restaurants.

• Includes three nights luxury ensuite accommodation plus breakfast - based on twin/double share.
• Includes daily luggage transfers between accommodation.
• Includes all of your transportation on the trail plus airport pick-up and drop-off if required.
• Standard or E-Bike hire available.
   

Day One: Kohatu to Nelson (46.5km). Today starts with a shuttle transfer from Nelson to Kohatu, where the local cafe can fortify you before the start of your ride! The route is virtually all downhill today and there are cafes sited at regular intervals along the way. The first highlight is Spooners Tunnel: at 1,352 metres long, this tunnel is the oldest disused rail tunnel in the Southern Hemisphere. The tunnel is pitch black and is a constant 10deg so take your jumper and a torch. Emerging on the northern side, the rest of today’s ride is through an expansive, lush valley full of history, you will also be spoilt for choice for wineries along this section. You will finish back in Nelson and a well deserved rest at your accommodation.

Day Two: Nelson to Mapua (22km). As town gives way to countryside you join the coastal path and experience the coastal boardwalks of the Waimea Estuary and fertile farmland there, which is home to a range of internationally significant bird species including the White Heron, and cross the spectacular Waimea Swing Bridge. Rabbit Island is a great place for a break, a swim or a picnic, before catching the ferry to the Mapua Wharf where you can enjoy the buzzing atmosphere of galleries, studios, restaurants, cafes, shops, and the boutique Golden Bear Brewery. 

Day Three: Mapua to Kaiteriteri (43.5km). After breakfast it is on your bike again through Ruby Bay and a steady climb up to a spectacular 360 degree view of Tasman Bay and the ranges beyond. As you make your way around the amazing coastal trail of Motueka, you can enjoy the variety of bird species and gorgeous scenery. From the outskirts of Motueka, Kaiteriteri is approximately 12km’s away.  The short bike ride into Kaiteriteri takes in boardwalks and bridges through the farmland and orchards of Riwaka before entering stunning native beech forest, then on to your final nights' accommodation in Kaiteriteri.

Day Four: Kaiteriteri. Today is a free day where you can either explore the highly rated biking trails through the local native forest, take boat trip out to the stunning Abel Tasman National Park or just relax by the beautiful beach at this relaxed seaside village. The shuttle will return you to Nelson at your preferred time.

*Please Note - Minimum of 2 participants if booking online. Price based on 2 people sharing a double or twin room. Solo travellers please contact us directly to book or to find out more information.