Your adventure starts with a pickup in Queenstown around 8:30am, followed by a short drive to Clyde. That’s where the real fun begins—hopping on bikes for the first stretch of the Otago Rail Trail.

The ride to Alexandra is full of wide-open views through rolling farmland. From there, the trail gently climbs toward Chatto Creek, levelling out near Omakau, with a quick detour to the charming village of Ophir—a hidden gem packed with old-world character and photo-worthy moments.

Today’s highlights include the iconic Muttontown Viaduct, the historic Old Tucker Hill gold diggings, and stunning views of the Dunstan Mountains and Raggedy Range.

MEALS INCLUDED: L D

The morning starts with a short bus ride to the historic gold-mining town of St Bathans, where a stroll around the stunning Blue Lake sets the scene for the day. Then it’s back on the trail and into today’s biking adventure.

The ride winds through two old railway tunnels and over a couple of classic rail bridges, opening up into the beautiful Idaburn Valley. A gentle climb leads to the highest point of the trail—then it’s all downhill into the charming art deco town of Ranfurly.

Along the way, there’s no shortage of highlights: the dramatic Poolburn Gorge Viaduct and tunnels, the wide-open Ida Valley made famous by artist Grahame Sydney, the quirky Idaburn Dam (a local favourite for winter curling), and the fascinating Hayes Engineering Works, where some of New Zealand’s most iconic inventions were born.

MEALS INCLUDED: B L D

The day kicks off with something a bit different—a visit to Naseby for a game of curling at the only dedicated indoor rink in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s a hands-on experience and a real local favourite.

After heading back to Ranfurly, it’s time to jump back on the bikes. The trail rolls out toward Waipiata, skirts the edge of an ancient lakebed, and winds into the stunning Taieri Gorge. There’s a mix of tunnels, bridges, and open spaces before a fast and fun downhill ride into Hyde.

Highlights include trying your hand at curling, cruising across the vast Maniototo Plains, following the winding Taieri River, and crossing the impressive Prices Creek Viaduct.

MEALS INCLUDED: B L D

Setting off from Hyde, the trail heads toward the rural town of Middlemarch—best known for its Easter Singles Ball. Winding through classic Central Otago scenery, there are wide-open views of the Rock and Pillar and Taieri Ranges.

Along the way, pause at the Hyde Railway Disaster memorial and enjoy a smooth descent into the sweeping Strath Taieri Plain.

Before returning to Queenstown, there’s time for one last scenic spin—this time along the beautiful Clutha River—before being dropped off at your accommodation, with plenty of great memories to take with you.

MEALS INCLUDED : B L