Alps to Ocean Classic

Following an early start, our adventure begins with the drive across the picturesque Canterbury Plains. After refreshments in the country town of Geraldine, we’ll continue through rolling farmland to reach Burke’s Pass the gateway to Mackenzie Country, and Lake Tekapo soon appears as a bright blue jewel. We'll have lunch and after a briefing and group photos we'll set off cycling around the lakeside to see the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, continuing to the start of the Alps to Ocean ride. We follow alongside the vivid hydro canals to reach a high terrace overlooking Lake Pukaki and the surrounding mountains. The trail then dips down to meet the lakeshore, offering incredible views of Aoraki/Mt Cook. Here we load up and have a short drive to Twizel, where we will spend the next 2 nights. Tonight we have our first group dinner where we can learn more about the week's cycling ahead. Cycling Distance: Tekapo to Twizel - up to 34km Accommodation : The Alps, Twizel

Meals:  L,D

After breakfast, we head back to the Lake Pukaki and hop back on our bikes to ride the lakeside track before heading across expansive tussockland back to our accommodation in Twizel. After a quick clothing change, we will venture north to Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, around an hour's drive. This afternoon is dedicated to immersing ourselves in the stunning alpine landscape of New Zealand's highest peaks. After a picnic lunch, options include the longer out and back Hooker Valley walk, which takes us over impressive swing bridges and beneath towering summits, including the majestic Aoraki/Mt Cook, to a serene glacial lake. The walk to the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint, with vistas of NZ's longest glacier and the Tasman Lake, is a shorter option, allowing time to also visit the impressive Department of Conservation Visitors' Centre. In less favourable weather conditions, we will have the opportunity to explore the visitors center and the Edmund Hilary Museum which features a planetarium. In the late afternoon we return to Twizel for our second night's stay. Cycling Distance: approx 19km Hiking Distances: Hooker Valley Walk - upto 10km/3hrs (mostly flat) Tasman Glacier Viewpoint : - 3km/45 mins (includes 300 steps) Accommodation : The Alps, Twizel

Meals:  B,L,D

The stunning scenery keeps coming as we ride alongside the Pukaki and Ohau canals with a vast mountainous backdrop, then Lake Ohau where we stop for lunch. Confident riders can continue on the trail to Tarnbrae Saddle (900m), the highpoint of the A2O. The vast Mackenzie Country views are just reward for the climb. Alternatively, riders can transfer to the historic woolshed at Quailburn for a much easier ride down to Omarama – our stop for the night. Translating from Maori as ‘place of light’, Omarama is known for its extraordinarily clear skies, offering incredible star gazing opportunities at night. They are best appreciated at the local hot pools where you can book a private open air tub to soak in fresh mountain water (own expense). Cycling Distance: 38km (Twizel–Lake Ohau); 44km Lake Ohau–Omarama via Tarnbrae Saddle or 26km (Quailburn–Omarama (short option) Accommodation : Sierra Motel, Omarama

Meals:  B,L,D

Today’s ride takes us down the Waitaki Valley, known for its hydro lakes and dams. First, we follow the trail along the shores of Lake Benmore to Sailors Cutting. From there, we join the lakeshore to traverse around the shoreline of rocky outcrops, little beaches and even tree covered islands. The trail then drops us down from above the Benmore Dam to rejoin the quiet lakeside road. There is an easier option for less confident riders who would prefer to avoid this more technical section. Regrouped, it’s a fun downhill cycle towards Aviemore Dam, where we’ll enjoy a picnic by the lake. We’ll arrive at Kurow with plenty of time to explore the town’s surrounds. Highlights include beautifully restored St Albans Church and wine-tasting at local vineyards. We’ll stay overnight in Kurow in an elegant lodge serving dinner showcasing local produce. Cycling Distance: 67km Accommodation : Waitaki Braids Lodge, Kurow

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning the cycle trail takes us along the banks of the Waitaki River, past vineyards and a Maori rock art site to reach the small town of Duntroon. From there, we head inland into rolling country and wander around the unique Elephant Rocks, huge formations strewn across a field. Picking up the old railway line, we’ll ride through Raki's tunnel before rolling downhill to the settlement of Windsor. The historic Burnside Homestead is a fitting place for our final night together and a well-deserved night’s sleep after dinner at the local Enfield pub. Cycling Distance: 28km (Kurow–Duntroon) & 40km (Duntroon–Burnside Homestead) Accommodation : Burnside Homestead

Meals:  B,L,D

We get to enjoy one more ride on the A2O before we begin our road trip back to Christchurch. Setting off from our accommodation, we keep on rolling through picturesque rural countryside. We pass Oamaru Stone quarry, where stone has been extracted since the nineteenth century. We’ll see its influence on local architecture once we reach Oamaru. After riding through the town’s delightful municipal gardens, we’ll reach the Victorian Precinct and harbourside park where the A2O finish-line sign offers the perfect photo-op. If time allows, explore the shops and galleries or visit the mind-boggling Steampunk HQ museum. After a late lunch, we’ll begin our journey north across the Canterbury Plains, arriving in central Christchurch early evening. Cycling Distance: 19km (Burnside–Oamaru)

Meals:  B