Alps to Ocean - 4 Day Tekapo to Oamaru Express

We'll meet you at our depot at 16 Chain Hills Highway, Omarama, at 8:30am for your pre-ride briefing and bike fitting. If you're travelling by car, you're welcome to leave your vehicle at our base while you're away on the trail. After your briefing, we’ll shuttle you approximately 1 hour to the trail start in Tekapo, where your ride begins. You’ll follow the turquoise canal paths and peaceful gravel roads, enjoying wide open Mackenzie Country landscapes and panoramic views of the Southern Alps as you make your way towards Lake Pukaki. From there, continue across the vast Pukaki Flats to Twizel, your first overnight stop. Accommodation: Twizel. Want to make the most of your time in the high country? Ask us about adding a pre-tour night in the stunning lakeside resort of Tekapo and soaking up the stars at the Dark Sky Reserve.

Meals:  Nil

Today, you'll cycle along the edge of stunning, turquoise-coloured canals and the southern edge of Lake Ohau along a beautiful trail to Lake Ohau Lodge, which makes a good place for refreshments. From Lake Ohau Lodge, begin a steady climb to the highest point on the Alps to Ocean trail, Tarnbrae Saddle, sitting at 900 metres above sea level. The effort is rewarded with sweeping panoramic views back over Lake Ohau and a final, memorable glimpse of Aoraki/Mt Cook. Today’s destination is Omarama, but if you have energy consider a side trip to the otherworldly Clay Cliffs. This 7km detour (each way) along a gravel road leads to dramatic natural pinnacles and sculpted formations, shaped by wind and water over thousands of years. Just beyond the turnoff, you’ll find Quailburn Farm Store - an ideal refreshment stop with self-serve ice creams and snacks to keep you fuelled for the final stretch. Accommodation: Omarama

Meals:  B

Leaving Omarama, the first 5km leads you to the top of the Chain Hills, where breathtaking views await you. Descend to the shimmering edge of Lake Benmore, where you'll find the perfect campsite at Sailors Cutting. From here, the trail meanders along the lake's shoreline, immersing you in a true wilderness experience. As you zigzag over headlands, prepare to be awestruck by the incredible vistas that unfold at every turn. Cross the impressive Benmore hydro dam and continue riding beside Lakes Aviemore and Waitaki on a scenic stretch of sealed road. The final 16km unfolds along a smooth, flowing trail that leads you into the charming township of Kurow, your next well-earned stop. Accommodation: Kurow

Meals:  B

After breakfast, you will ride through Pasquale Vineyard and alongside the mighty Waitaki River. Take a look at the ancient Maori rock drawings before arriving at the historic town of Duntroon. The Vanished World Museum is located in Duntroon, where you can gather information about the geology of the next stage of your ride ahead. You'll follow the trail through several farms to the unique rock formations called Elephant Rocks. You'll continue riding surrounded by limestone escarpments before riding through to Oamaru, taking in the beautifully manicured Oamaru Public Gardens along the way to the trail finishing point at Oamaru Harbour. Congratulations on your mammoth effort! Celebrate with a beverage at the Scotts Brewery right on the wharf where we will meet you by 2:45 pm for luggage collection and bike return. The shuttle back to Omarama (if booked), departs at 3:00 pm.

Meals:  B