Planning the days' cycling on the Otago Central Rail Trail | Lachlan Gardiner
Blog home / What's included in a self-guided cycling holiday?
Many travellers understand the term 'guided tour', but the term 'self-guided' is less commonly used unless you're an avid active traveller.
Self-guided cycling is another term for an organised trip where you are not escorted by a guide. Yet, self-guided tours are still completely organised by the company to take away the hassle of researching and planning your itinerary.
In this article, we describe what it’s like to go on a self-guided cycling trip in New Zealand with Trail Journeys. Hopefully, after reading this you’ll be eager to experience a self-guided bike holiday in Central Otago. With Trail Journeys' range of affordable and convenient trips, going on a self-guided cycling tour has never been easier.
Before your trip
Bike supplements
Top-quality bikes and helmets are either included or can be hired on all of our self-guided cycling tours. The specific bicycle description is outlined on the trip page. On certain trips, it is possible to upgrade your bike if you’d like to use a tag-a-long bike or an electric bike. Learn more about electric bikes in our article: the benefits of riding an ebike.
Accommodation Upgrades
On certain tours, there is the option to upgrade to more luxurious accommodation. Ask our team of experts and we'll be able to assist as best as we can.
During your trip
Collect your bike
Whether you meet us at our depot or one of our buses collects you from your accommodation, you'll meet the team at the Trail Journeys Depot in Clyde (at the start of Otago Rail Trail) where a member of the team will ensure the bike is right for you, run through your itinerary, and answer any questions you have before you embark on your journey.
Luggage transfer
Leave everything you don’t need to take on your cycling adventure at your accommodation reception. The included luggage transfer service will transport your bags to your next accommodation.
Trail maps
Time to hit the road! One of the key benefits of self-guided cycling is the freedom to explore at your own pace. We provide you with the appropriate information so you can easily follow the itinerary, this could include maps, route notes, or the Rail Trail passport. We also provide recommendations for sights to visit, places to eat at, and more.
Accommodation
At the end of a glorious day of cycling Central Otago's spectacular landscapes, your itinerary will lead you to your accommodation. The accommodation is handpicked for a variety of reasons: character, comfort, and closeness to local sights. At check-in you’ll find your luggage waiting for you, making it very convenient to rest and recharge for the next days’ pedalling.
Support and Assistance
We provide you with a contact number to call in case of emergencies, we have an on-call support vehicle if you need assistance.
>> View our self-guided trips here
Have you been on a self-guided tour before? What was it like? Let us know in the comment section below.