Conquer the Trails on an Epic Cycling Weekend
Ready to prove that age is just a number?
Whether you're hiking, biking, or soaking in the wilderness around you, Central Otago is the perfect playground for those who believe the best way to spend a weekend is by pushing their limits and embracing everything nature has to offer… albeit with a glass of pinot as the sun goes down.
From its world-class cycle trails and wineries to its high-country wilderness, Central Otago is anything but retired!
Day One
Ease into your Central Otago break with an afternoon exploring Cromwell Heritage Precinct, just a short ride along the Lake Dunstan Trail from central Cromwell.
Watch the sunset over the Kawarau River and vineyards with a cocktail at Penny Black before some serious carbo-loading at The Stoaker Room to prepare for the next day’s biking mission.
The Cromwell Heritage Precinct is a great place to explore - enjoy the galleries, cafes and even a cocktail bar in a heritage setting on the lakeshore
Day Two
You’ll need a big breakfast this morning in readiness for a bike adventure on some of Central Otago’s finest gravel roads!
The 70km Cairnmuir Circuit will take you from Cromwell to Bannockburn and then Clyde, through iconic high-country landscapes concluding along the epic Lake Dunstan Trail.
Thankfully there are cafes dotted along the route - including the surprise and delight of Coffee and Burger Afloat at its remote spot on the Lake Dunstan Trail.
Choose your favourite local cafe and start the day with a nourishing breakfast before hitting the trails
The Cairnmuir Circuit takes you above Clyde via the Hawksburn Road and Lake Dunstan Trail
With its location directly on the Lake Dunstan Trail, Carrick Winery has created options and space specifically for cyclists
Coffee and Burger Afloat are a surprise and delight where you least expect to find them, do check ahead to ensure they are open
Day Three
A day to relax and recover... or not!
Get your adrenaline pumping with a visit to Highlands Motorsport Park then stretch the legs and work up an appetite on the 45th Parallel Track or take in the fascinating herringbone tailings at Quartz Reef Trailings.
Historic Clyde is a perfect destination for lunch with its selection of cafes and pubs. Then perhaps a trip on the Lake Dunstan Explorer for a different view of the trails you've ridden.
Highlands has an option for everyone to experience the exceptional
The Clyde Dam is one of New Zealand's most significant renewable energy projects, be privileged to take a tour behind the scenes