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Cycling the Lake Dunstan Trail - Cycle Kawarau Gorge, Dunstan and Otago Rail Trails, New Zealand
Cycling the Lake Dunstan Trail  | Ross Mackay
Cycle over the grand Poolburn Viaduct - Cycle Kawarau Gorge, Dunstan and Otago Rail Trails, New Zealand
Cycle over the grand Poolburn Viaduct  | Lachlan Gardiner
Riders cycling the Queenstown Trails throughout the South Island - Cycle Kawarau Gorge, Dunstan and Otago Rail Trails, New Zealand
Riders cycling the Queenstown Trails throughout the South Island  | Geoff Marks
Sunny day on Lake Dunstan - Cycle Kawarau Gorge, Dunstan and Otago Rail Trails, New Zealand
Sunny day on Lake Dunstan  | Will Nelson
Taking in the serenity riding through Central Otago - Cycle Kawarau Gorge, Dunstan and Otago Rail Trails, New Zealand
Taking in the serenity riding through Central Otago  | Cam Stables
Discover historic tunnels along the trail - Cycle Kawarau Gorge, Dunstan and Otago Rail Trails, New Zealand
Discover historic tunnels along the trail  | Lachlan Gardiner
Dunstan House accommodation in Clyde - Cycle Kawarau Gorge, Dunstan and Otago Rail Trails, New Zealand
Dunstan House accommodation in Clyde  | Lachlan Gardiner
Dunstan House | Accommodation - Cycle Kawarau Gorge, Dunstan and Otago Rail Trails, New Zealand
Dunstan House | Accommodation  | Lachlan Gardiner

Cycle Kawarau Gorge, Dunstan and Otago Rail Trails

Combine three NZ icons, the Kawarau Gorge, Lake Dunstan and Central Otago Rail Trails, in one remarkable cycle trip

New Zealand
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 2 reviews

5 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: KDO
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 5 Days
Activities
  • 5 day cycle trail
Accommodation
  • 4 nights hotel/motel
Meals
  • 3 Dinners
  • 5 Lunches
  • 4 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
3 / 5

Introductory to Moderate

Carbon Footprint  

26kg of CO2-e PP per day

(104kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Be one of the first to venture into the magnificent Kawarau Gorge on the newest Great Ride
  • Ride the stunning Lake Dunstan trail through the spectacular Cromwell Gorge
  • Journey up Lake Dunstan on The Lake Dunstan Explorer boat & enjoy the beautiful scenery.
  • Enjoy easy riding in epic landscapes with big skies on the Otago Rail Trail
  • Go deep into history through tunnels, over bridges, along railways & riverside paths
  • Admire architectural historic gems in the old gold mining towns of Arrowtown, Clyde and Ophir
  • Savour delicious local wine & food, and stay in great accommodation

Overview

Ride through an array of spectacular southern landscapes on our fully guided and supported trip taking in the Kawarau Gorge, Lake Dunstan and Central Otago Rail Trails.

The adventure begins with a warm up ride on arguably the best of the Queenstown Trails, including the Wharehuanui Trail, the latest addition to the Queenstown Trail network. Our first night is spent in the historic gold-mining town of Arrowtown with our first dinner at Ayrburn, Queenstown's newest food and wine neighborhood.

Day 2's riding starts with the scenic Arrow River and Gibbston Valley trails before we embark on the newest Great Ride on everyone's to do list, the Kawarau Gorge Trail. The trail winds through previously inaccessible segments of the Kawarau Gorge, treating you to scenery that will simply steal your breath away.

Staying in Central Otago's hub town of Alexandra, we're ready for the Central Otago Rail Trail, New Zealand's first and most famous Great Ride. Following the old Otago Central railway line from Clyde to Middlemarch over 2 days, this trail takes in grand landscapes, charming towns, country hospitality and rich history.

And finally, our journey finishes on the iconic Lake Dunstan Trail but not before a warm up ride on our final day along the Alexandra River Trail followed by a boat trip on the Dunstan Explorer taking us to the start of the Dunstan Trail. Initially following the shimmering waters of Lake Dunstan, the trail enters the dramatic Cromwell Gorge following the mighty Clutha/Mata Au river via suspension bridges and boardwalks clinging to the impressive rock walls.

Our expert guides will show you the best trailside highlights such as heritage sites, architectural gems, and vineyards. You’ll also enjoy delicious local food and drink, and friendly welcomes in accommodation full of character.

Itinerary

Expand all | Collapse all

After an early morning briefing in Queenstown and a short transfer, we saddle up for our first ride on arguably the best of the Queenstown Trails. We set off riding on the Wharehuanui Trail, the latest addition to the Trail network. Starting in Arthurs Point, the trail crosses various wetlands and riparian zones and traverses the foothills of Coronet Peak. The trail passes parts of the famous Millbrook golf course before joining up with the Countryside Trail. From here we head south, enjoying quiet countryside as we pass breathtaking architecture, tree-lined avenues and stunning alpine vistas. The trail joins up with the spectacular Shotover River, before arriving at the historic Old Lower Shotover Bridge. Here we join the Twin Rivers Trail following the Shotover and Kawarau Rivers through to our lunch stop near Lake Hayes. After lunch we'll head along the shores of the Lake, which is often very calm, producing incredible reflections of the mountain ranges that surround it, through to Arrowtown, a delightful old gold mining town and our overnight stop. There should be time for a wander through this historic town before enjoying our first group dinner. Cycling distance: 42km/26 miles; +460m/1509ft

Meals: L,D

In the heart of Central Otago’s picturesque landscape the new 32km Kawarau Gorge trail bridges the gap between Queenstown and the existing Central Otago trails. But before we tackle this trail gem, we leave Arrowtown via the delightful Arrow River Bridges Trail, which includes 2 spectacular suspension bridges and journeys through to the historic Kawarau Bridge, where we can witness bungy jumpers and zipliners getting their adrenaline fix. Next is the Gibbston Valley trail, which winds its way high above the Kawarau River through Central Otago's premier wine-growing region, Gibbston the 'Valley of Vines' to the start of the new Kawarau Gorge Trail. The trail meanders around the Nevis Bluff and winds through previously inaccessible segments of the Kawarau Gorge, treating you to scenery that will simply steal your breath away. We’ll experience the sheer majesty of the Kawarau River with the trail winding its way across suspension bridges and navigating the gorge on the opposite side to the state highway, offering a unique perspective of the landscape. Beyond the natural wonders, the area is rich in history with incredible stories of early gold mining days, ingenious power generation projects, tales of rabbit hunting, and the ancient routes traversed by early Maori waiting to be discovered. We finish this remarkable cycle journey in Bannockburn and head over the river to Cromwell where we spend the evening. Dinner at your leisure tonight. Cycle : approx 48km/30miles, +487m/1597ft

Meals: B,L

Today, we spend the first of 2 days on New Zealand's original Great Ride, the Central Otago Rail Trail, which opened in 2000. The 152km trail follows the former Otago Central railway line, which was responsible for opening up Central Otago by helping farmers and orchardists in Central Otago get their stock and produce to market in Dunedin. A short van transfer see us riding from Clyde via the historic railway line, we’ll track across rural plains encircled by dramatic mountain ranges. Beyond the tiny settlement of Chatto Creek, the trail climbs gently before levelling off for easy riding through to the township of Lauder. The next section features the trip’s first tunnels and old railway bridges as we trace the pretty Poolburn Gorge and head into the Idaburn Valley. Time permitting, we’ll stop at Hayes Engineering Works, a delightfully rustic heritage site, and Oturehua’s old-fashioned grocery store. From there it's a gentle climb to the rail trail’s highpoint, then a downhill roll to either Wedderburn or Ranfurly with its striking art deco architecture. Cycle: 76km/48miles, +761m/2516ft

Meals: B,L,D

From Ranfurly, the trail tracks towards Waipiata, then follows the edge of an old lake before entering the picturesque Taieri Gorge with more bridges and tunnels. It’s a flowing downhill run to the historic Hotel Hyde, a picturesque spot for a breather. From here, the final 27km takes in the poignant 1943 Hyde rail disaster memorial, then wends across rolling plains towards the trail’s end at Middlemarch. After a cafe lunch to celebrate completing our 3rd Great Ride, we’ll board the support vehicle for the drive to Alexandra, the hottest, driest and coldest town in New Zealand! Our final group dinner tonight, before tomorrow's Grand Finale ride on the Lake Dunstan Trail. Cycle : 75km/47 miles, +318m/1043ft

Meals: B,L,D

A true Queen stage awaits us today. Riding from our accommodation we cross the mighty Clutha/Mata Au River and join the delightful River Trail which meanders beside the true right bank of the river through to Clyde. Here we hop on the Dunstan Explorer for a stunning boat ride up the lake to a drop off point on the lakeside, where we'll join the famous Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail. Initially following the glistening shores of the lake, it's an easy pedal through to Cromwell’s Old Town, a small historic precinct dating back to the gold rush days of the 1800s. Here the galleries, coffee shops and boutiques give us a short break from the bike. The trail continues along the Kawarau arm of Lake Dunstan to the Bannockburn Bridge offering stunning views across the lake while passing by wineries and olive groves. From Cornish Point some riders will continue into the dramatic Cromwell Gorge, where the track winds around sheer rockfaces and over lake inlets on impressively engineered platforms and bridges rising above the lake to Clyde. For those riders who wish to avoid the more demanding section through the gorge, there will be an option to drive to Clyde and ride in towards the far end of the Gorge. We finish by a lakeside beach, so weather permitting it's a great place to soak sore muscles before a stop for a real fruit ice-cream on the way back to Queenstown in the van. There will be a drop off at the airport and another in the centre of town. Please avoid booking any international flights tonight and any domestic flights departing before 7pm. Cycle : Alexandra to Clyde River Trail : 18km/11miles,+168m/551ft Lake Dunstan Trail - McNulty Inlet to Cornish Point 17km/11miles, +187m/613ft Lake Dunstan Trail - Cornish Point to Clyde Rowing Club (Moderate) – 24km/15miles, 346m/1134ft

Meals: B,L

Ready to start your adventure?

7 scheduled departures between 17 Nov 2026 and 19 Apr 2027.

  • Departs 17 Nov 2026 – ends 21 Nov 2026 (5 days)
  • Departs 6 Dec 2026 – ends 10 Dec 2026 (5 days)
  • Departs 13 Jan 2027 – ends 17 Jan 2027 (5 days)
  • Departs 22 Feb 2027 – ends 26 Feb 2027 (5 days)
  • Departs 7 Mar 2027 – ends 11 Mar 2027 (5 days)
  • Departs 5 Apr 2027 – ends 9 Apr 2027 (5 days)
  • … and 1 more departures.
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • Tasty cafe breakfasts (x4), gourmet picnic and cafe lunches (x5), two course restaurant dinners (x3) catered to all dietary requirements
  • 4 nights comfortable motel/hotel accommodation on a twin share basis
  • Experienced guides who handle all the hard bits and share epic stories (2 guides with groups of 8 or more)
  • Tasty nutritious snacks, drinks and treats
  • Full vehicle support along the trail including trailer for luggage
  • Return transport to Queenstown
  • Pre departure information kit to help you plan and prepare
  • Rider fees paid to the Department of Conservation and Trail Trusts for ongoing maintenance and improvements

Not included

  • International or domestic flights and taxes
  • Arrival and departure transfers
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • All beverages, other than breakfast
  • Bike hire (including helmet)
  • Water bottle (help us save the environment and bring your own bike drink bottle)
  • Personal expenses (eg. phone calls, internet, laundry, shopping etc)
  • Travel insurance
  • Visa (if required)

About your guide

Our guides are one of our biggest assets and we pride ourselves on their level of quality and high standards. Once the trip reaches 8 people, we provide you with two of our expert guides to maximise your enjoyment and overall experience. You’ll know you’re in safe hands as all of our guides are certified in first aid and CPR and many of them are trained bike mechanics. They come from all walks of life but our guides have a common desire to give you the best possible experience, fun and lots of fond memories to take home with you.

Videos

Otago Central Rail Trail Highlights
Otago Central Rail Trail Highlights
Lake Dunstan Trail Highlights
New Zealand Cycling Holidays | Webinar Replay

Reviews (2)

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As an active retiree the rides were very different to what I was riding in Australian.

I have been exposed to very different types of trails, learnt new skills and gained an inner confidence of my ability.

It was wonderful being outdoors enjoying the different environment.

An enjoyable experience.

Lilian H|ACT, Australia
12 Mar 2026
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Great scenic rides

Good guides

Good accommodation

Great food

Anthony P|NSW, Australia
26 Feb 2026

Extra trip info

AccommodationBikesTrail surfacesWill My Trip Run?Why Book With Us
Studio Room at Carrick Lodge | Carrick Lodge

Motels

Often family run, motels range from 3 to 4 stars and provide access to local living thanks to your hosts. The hospitality is generous and their local knowledge is invaluable. Rooms are spacious, warm and comfortable and they have ensuite bathrooms with tea and coffee making facilities. Where possible, we choose locations that add to your experience.

Sinch E-Bike Jaunt EZ 3.5 Auto

Sinch eBikes - Sizes XS, S, M, L, XL*

Designed specifically for Adventure South, our fleet of Sinch e-bikes is built to handle Aotearoa New Zealand’s cycle trails with ease.

These pedal-assist bikes take the effort out of hills and longer rides, thanks to a smooth and reliable Shimano motor system and a comfortable, upright riding position.

For premium comfort and control, they are equipped with:

Large 630Wh battery

Electronic and optional automatic gear shifting

Swept-back handlebars with ergonomic comfort grips

120mm front air suspension

20mm suspension dropper seat post

Hydraulic disc brakes

Adjustable handlebar stem

All sizes apart from XL feature an exceptionally low step-through frame (40cm) and 27.5” x 2.35” tyres.

*The XL bikes feature a step-over frame with 29” x 2.4” tyres for added stability and performance.

Whether you’re riding through the Mackenzie Basin, tracing the path of the Molesworth Muster, or cycling through Otago’s stunning gorges, our e-bikes are designed to help you enjoy every moment of the ride.

Merida Big 9 200

Merida Big Nine 200 (Hardtail Mountain bike NOT AN E-BIKE) - Sizes S, M, L & XL:

Our Merida Big Nine 200 hardtails are built for real-world Aotearoa New Zealand trails — reliable, capable, and comfortable. The lightweight aluminium frame and 29x2.4'' tires roll efficiently over a wide range of terrain, while the air suspension fork smooths out bumps and rough tracks. A modern, big range 1x10 drivetrain keeps shifting simple and intuitive, letting you focus on the ride ahead.

Hydraulic disc brakes give you reliable stopping power, and the rear rack fitted with one of our rack bags (included in hire) is ideal for stashing your layers, lunch or camera. With a relaxed upright riding position, this is a great choice for those who want a traditional, pedal-powered ride without sacrificing comfort.

With cleverly engineered geometry, this is a great choice for those who appreciate an engaging pedal powered ride without sacrificing the slightest bit of comfort.

Whether you’re cruising through the Roxburgh Gorge, flying across the Shotover Bridge, or pedalling beside the wild surf of the Taranaki coast, the Merida Big Nine 200 is a dependable trail mate.

* We have step-through bikes available on request, subject to limited availability. These are Avanti Discovery models.

Merida eONE-FORTY 475 EQ

Merida eONE-FORTY 475 EQ (Full suspension, MTB e-bike) - Sizes S, M, L:

This is the e-bike for riders who want the lot — comfort, control, and a little electric boost when the legs need it. The Merida eONE-FORTY 475 EQ features full suspension, a sporty mountainbike position, 29x2.4'' tires and a powerful Shimano motor that’ll help flatten out hills and keep your day flowing smoothly.

A long-lasting 712 Wh battery means you can ride all day, and extras like integrated lights, mudguards and a rack make it practical too. Whether you’re gliding around the Timber Trail, cruising the West Coast Wilderness, or soaking in the sights of the Alps to Ocean, this bike turns the dial up on comfort and capability.

*Subject to limited availability

Cycling from Lauder to Ranfurly in the Poolburn Gorge | Lachlan Gardiner

Compacted Gravel 99%

Majority of the Otago Central Rail Trail is compacted gravel therefore cyclists need to be confident riding on uneven surfaces. The trail is wide, which means that you can be sociable and ride alongside others. There are some narrow cattle-stop grates, and “chicanes” (s-shaped safety gateways).

Lake Dunstan credit: Geoff Marks | Geoff Marks

Some single track

Parts of the Kawarau Gorge and Lake Dunstan Trails are narrow in places with drop offs and tight corners.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

  • Pioneers in group cycle tours since 1992
  • Stay at the historic Dunstan House in Clyde and quaint Lauder School
  • Our support vehicle is always nearby if you are feeling tired
  • Flexibility to change the itinerary on tour if effected by weather or trail closures

Guaranteeing A Great New Zealand Trip

Pioneering World Firsts
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Quality accommodations
Innovative itineraries
Custom built, reliable transport
Our all inclusive approach

Multi Award Winning Adventures

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