trip
NEW Trip – Kyrgyzstan & the Tian Shan MountainsJoin 19 August 2024 Departure

6 Days$2690USD

Activities
  • 3 days guided cycle
  • 3 days guided walk
Accommodation
  • 3 nights hotel/motel
  • 2 nights private lodge
Meals
  • 4 Dinners
  • 6 Lunches
  • 6 Breakfasts
2
Introductory to Moderate
 
 

Trip highlights


  • Experience the serenity of the Abel Tasman National Park in the winter
  • Ride the Great Taste Cycle Trail along a mix of coastal and rural cycle trails and quiet roads
  • Spend 2 nights at private secluded lodges overlooking the ocean
  • Admire the golden sandy beaches and blue sea as we walk the Abel Tasman track
  • Savor local Tasman produce at wineries, breweries and orchards

Crisp, cloudless days and mountains blanketed in snow make Nelson Tasman the perfect location for an active winter getaway. This unforgettable journey begins cycling the renowned Great Taste Trail, followed by 3 days of walking the iconic Abel Tasman Track. This region is famed for its stunning natural landscapes, with long golden beaches, untouched forests and rugged mountains, it also boasts of being the sunniest part of the country. Winter enhances this experience with cooler temperatures perfect for cycling and fewer crowds, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings.

Starting in Nelson, we cycle along flat or gently rolling trails, passing vineyards, charming villages, and scenic orchards, through a disused railway tunnel and towards the sandy beaches of the Abel Tasman. We then spend 3 days walking beautiful coastal paths between 2 remote waterfront lodges in the park, appreciating serene beaches, native forests, and clear blue water. Our last ride completes the Great Taste Trail, cycling via Mapua and Rabbit Island to our final lunch destination providing a fitting finale to this memorable adventure.

Trip Code: WNNT

Welcome to Nelson, the “sunshine capital” of the South Island of New Zealand, especially in the winter months. We drive to Monaco Point for a briefing and bike fit and set out on our first ride along the Great Taste Trail. We follow the waters edge, through the Waimea Estates vineyard and along the Waimea River, through Brightwater to Wakefield village. We meet the Wai-iti Riverbank, and on through the Domain to Belgrove where we can see a historic railway windmill, one of only two left in New Zealand. The trail then winds its way through bush up to the entrance of the historic Spooners Tunnel, which at 1.4km long, is the longest decommissioned railway tunnel in the Southern Hemisphere. We enjoy a fun descent to Kohatu with views across hop plantations and farmland to Mt Arthur, before arriving in the small settlement of Tapawera. We load up the bikes and then drive to our accommodation in Motueka, where we will spend the next 2 nights. Cycling Distance: Monaco to Tapawera - 61km

Meals:  B,L,D

After breakfast we transfer back to Tapawera to start cycling where we finished yesterday. Today's ride takes us on a new outback section of Great Taste Trail, gently climbing 120m over the Baton Saddle to Woodstock. From the high point we descend into the pretty Baton River Valley after crossing a new purpose built cyclists swing bridge. This part of the cycle trail follows a gravel road open to farm vehicles, tankers and logging trucks and is the most challenging part of the trail, but it is not technical. We visit an interesting museum constructed by resident farmers which makes a great place for coffee while reading about the local history. We then continue down the road along the west bank of the Motueka River to Riwaka, passing through vineyards, kiwifruit orchards and hops farms along the way. We end our ride with a visit to the Riwaka River Estate Winery for a late afternoon tasting. We then load up the bikes and drive on to Motueka. For those who still have some energy, they can cycle 8km from the winery to our accommodation in Motueka. Dinner at your leisure tonight, with plenty of options to choose from. Cycling Distance: Tapawera to Riwaka - 63km

Meals:  B,L

After a relaxed start this morning we are transferred to Kaiteriteri and the gateway of the iconic Abel Tasman track. We meet our Abel Tasman hiking guide and leave behind any luggage not required for this part of the journey. We take a boat ride along the length of the Abel Tasman coastline to Totaranui, relaxing on the viewing decks and enjoying refreshments from the cafe, we'll visit the famous Split Apple Rock and a seal colony enroute. We embark on our first walk in the Abel Tasman, climbing up to a saddle above Skinner Point before descending to Goat Bay. We walk through mature native forest and along secluded beaches to the breathtaking expanse of Awaroa Inlet. If the tide is right we can walk across the bay, at high tide we will take a short boat transfer and shortly after reach our historic lodge for the night. To round out a wonderful day, take some time to enjoy the peaceful environment, with a late afternoon stroll along the vast golden sand or relax in the surrounds of our exclusive lodge. Walking Distance: Totaranui to Awaroa Inlet 9km (2.5 hours)

Meals:  B,L,D

After breakfast overlooking the lodge gardens and ocean we set away for Onetahuti Beach, over the Tonga Saddle to reach an expansive semi circle beach offering stunning views of Tonga Island and the marine reserve. We cross a boardwalk and bridge designed by local iwi and at the site of the Tonga quarry learn about the unusual granite features and historic relics. We relax for a picnic lunch at Bark Bay. There are options to take a boat for part of the walk for those who prefer a shorter day, which your guide will explain the evening before. The afternoon walk winds through verdant gullies of mature beech forest, fern grottos and sunny groves of fragrant manuka framing coastal vistas. We cross an impressive 47m suspension bridge over Falls River before a gentle descent down to our beautiful lodge at Torrent Bay. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax in the stunning environment of the Abel Tasman Park, dinner is served in the evening by our lodge hosts. Walking Distance: Awaroa Inlet to Torrent Bay 20km

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning we sadly leave Torrent Bay and walk our final section of the Abel Tasman walkway southwards to Marahau via Anchorage with views of several beautiful sheltered bays and beaches. There are options to take a boat for some or all of the way. Traversing the high or low tide route through or around the expansive Torrent Bay lagoon, we arrive at the beach at Anchorage in time for a picnic lunch. Our afternoon walk gives panoramic views over the Tasman Bay to Nelson as we amble on forested trails alongside the azure coloured sea. On arriving into Marahau we are transferred to Kaiteriteri to collect our luggage and then on to Motueka for our final night. Walking Distance: Torrent Bay to Marahau (depending on tides) 13-16km

Meals:  B,L,D

Back on our bikes this morning, we set away from Motueka to rejoin the Great Taste Trail. We start with a climb through vineyards to the top of Tasman View Road, aptly named giving panoramic views across the Tasman Bay and Mt Arthur Range. Following an easy descent we ride through more apple orchards and vineyards, passing galleries and artist studios, then along the Ruby Coast into Mapua where we can have coffee in one of the waterfront cafes. We take a short ferry journey to Rabbit Island and ride through the pine forest. Back on the mainland, the trail skirts around the shore of the Waimea Inlet, the largest enclosed estuary in the South Island and home to many wading and sea birds. Bird spotting is best when the tide is out. We finish riding when we reach the Old Factory Corner, a boutique shopping precinct showcasing some fine local food products and producers from around the Nelson, Tasman region. After lunch there is time to have a wander around the interesting stores, before we load up the bikes and drive into Nelson by mid afternoon. Cycling Distance: Motueka to Richmond - 45km

Meals:  B,L


Inclusions

  • Tasty breakfasts (x5), gourmet picnic or café lunches (x6), 2 course restaurant dinners (x4) catered to all dietary requirements
  • 3 nights hotel/motel ensuite accommodation on twin share basis
  • 2 nights at the secluded lodges in the Abel Tasman National Park, ensuite accommodation on twin share basis
  • Experienced guides who handle all the hard bits and share epic stories (2 guides on groups of 8 or more)
  • Full vehicle support along the cycle trail including trailer for luggage
  • Boat transfers in the Abel Tasman National Park while hiking
  • Ferry crossing from Rabbit Island to Mapua
  • Wine tasting at boutique Riwaka winery
  • Tasty nutritious snacks, drinks and treats plus our famous morning and afternoon teas
  • eBike hire with helmet
  • Access and concession fees paid to the Department of Conservation
  • Pre departure information kit to help you plan and prepare

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

About Your Leader

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. On the Abel Tasman hike, we will be joined by an expert guide from Wilsons Abel Tasman who will enhance your experience with their local knowledge. 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.


Accommodation


Bike information


Trail Surface


Departure dates


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Priceper person from

$2690USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Single Supplement - includes Abel Tasman lodgesUSD$700
*Prices listed are per person

Essential Information

Ready to book? Make sure you download and read the detailed Winter Great Taste Trail Bike & Abel Tasman Hike trip notes which contains all the essential information you need to know before booking. Once you’ve booked, we will supply you with a Pre-Departure document which contains a detailed gear list and other important information to help you prepare for your adventure ahead.


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Why travel with us

Award Winning Adventures

Enhancing your journey with authentic experiences, genuine cultural exchange and real exploration are the focal points on all of our adventures. In 2019, we were crowned by our peers as the best in adventure travel at The Travel Awards in Sydney.

Thoughtful Travel

Our vision is to leave the world a better place by following our sustainable active outdoor travel charter. All our adventures are 100% carbon offset and our Regenerative 2030 Project aims to integrate ‘regenerative’ projects into every one of our global operations by 2030.

Ultimate Value

 When you book one of our adventures, you will receive quality services at the best prices with plenty of inclusions. There are no hidden costs, single travellers don’t pay more and you’ll enjoy many ‘extra touches’ that ensure your holiday is excellent value for money.

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