Alps to Ocean Premium

Your Alps to Ocean (A2O) 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 Fairlie where we’ll stop for lunch. The scenic journey over Burke’s Pass is a fitting introduction to the famous Mackenzie Country, where Lake Tekapo soon appears as a bright blue jewel. From here, we'll warm the legs up with a short ride on quiet backroads to Lake Alexandrina, a serene high country lake. Back at Tekapo Village, after checking into the gorgeous high country-inspired musterer lodges there's time to soak away any first-day aches in Tekapo Springs outdoor hot pools or enjoy a round of golf on one of the world’s most beautiful golf courses. After dinner the final treat of the day is a star gazing experience parked up at the back of the farm. Cycling distance: 20km Accommodation : The Cairns, Tekapo

Meals:  L,D

Our second day marks the start of our Alps to Ocean journey with a ride along the hydro canals to reach a high terrace overlooking Lake Pukaki and the surrounding mountains. The A2O then dips down to meet the lakeshore and crosses expansive tussockland to reach Twizel. From here we drive to Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park where there is the chance to visit the excellent national park visitor centre before we embark on a short but memorable walk. We'll then head back to our Lodge accommodation on the edge of Lake Pukaki where, after a delicious evening meal, hammocks await for a guided tour of the Milky Way. Cycling distance: Tekapo to Lake Pukaki: 35km. Lake Pukaki to Twizel: 20km Accommodation : Lakestone Lodge, Lake Pukaki

Meals:  B,L,D

After breakfast we cycle alongside the Pukaki and Ohau canals, then on easy single track around part of the shoreline of Lake Ohau. Our final 10km is on a quiet sealed road which takes us to Lake Ohau Lodge for a delicious lunch and where we stay tonight. This afternoon you are free to enjoy the lodge and surrounding activities. You can just go down to the lake and wander in either direction along the shoreline, or drive further up the valley for a 1hr return walk in beautiful beech forest with some lovely streams. This evening there is time to unwind and soak in the onsite hot tubs overlooking the lake before another delicious dinner. Cycle Distance: Twizel to Lake Ohau - 38km Accommodation : Lake Ohau Lodge

Meals:  B,L,D

After we've refuelled with breakfast, those who would like a challenge can continue on the trail, which starts as a steady climb up to the Tarnbrae Saddle. At 900m this is the highpoint of the whole Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail and your efforts are rewarded with stunning views across the Mackenzie Basin. The rough shingle Tarnbrae track is steep and narrow and is suited to the more confident and fitter riders. Alternatively for those who want a relaxing morning there is the option to transfer by coach and enjoy a final, mostly downhill and flat ride on the trail from the historic wool shed at Quailburn into Omarama, our stop for the night. Omarama is called "Place of Light" in Maori terminology, a reference to its extraordinarily pure and clear sky. This region is also famous for gliding due to some unique air wave systems and feisty thermals. This afternoon enjoy a side trip to the Clay Cliffs, a geological wonder; ‘bad land’ sharp pinnacles and ridges separated by steep and narrow ravines created out of layers of silt and gravel deposited by ancient lakes and rivers around 20 million years ago. Cycle Distance: Lake Ohau to Omarama via Tarnbrae Saddle - 44km Short Option: Quailburn to Omarama - 26km Accommodation : Sierra Motel, Omarama

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning 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 including the option of a wine tasting at a local, boutique winery. We’ll stay overnight in an elegant lodge serving dinner showcasing local produce. Cycle Distance: Omarama - Kurow 67km Accommodation : Waitaki Braids, Kurow

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning the cycle trail takes us along the banks of the Waitaki River, past vineyards and restored wetlands to reach the small town of Duntroon. From there, we head inland into rolling country passing the unique Elephant Rocks, huge limestone formations strewn across a field which are a must-see. Riding through a pretty valley we head upto a ridge with stunning views of the pastoral countryside and then drop down to Raki's Tunnel, a remnant of the old railway line. Following the old railway to the settlement of Windsor we finish at a historic heritage home, a fitting place for our final dinner together and a well-deserved night’s sleep. Cycle distance: 28km (Kurow–Duntroon) & 40km (Duntroon–Windsor) Accommodation : The Old School. Enfield

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. Cycle distance: 18km

Meals:  B,L