Alps 2 Ocean Express Self Guided Cycling Tour

Allow a full day to travel to Twizel from Christchurch or Queenstown, ensuring a relaxed start to your cycling adventure. Take the afternoon to explore this welcoming rural township, known for its scenic canals, local eateries, and nearby alpine views. Enjoy a restful night before hitting the trail in the morning.

Begin the day with a morning shuttle to your chosen starting point—either Aoraki/Mt Cook or Takapō/Tekapo. Cycle through the golden tussock landscapes and alongside shimmering lakes, taking in the vast beauty of the Mackenzie Country.

Choose between two routes: 54km from Takapō/Tekapo or 77km from Aoraki/Mt Cook. Both offer stunning views and a mix of sealed and gravel trails leading back to Twizel, where you’ll spend the night.

Ride along the peaceful, sealed canal roads as you leave Twizel, with the Southern Alps providing a breathtaking backdrop. The trail then follows the shores of Lake Ōhau, winding through native tussock and offering stunning lakeside views.

Enjoy the serenity of this alpine setting before settling in for the night at Lake Ōhau.

Follow the trail up to the Tarnbrae Highpoint, the highest section of the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, where sweeping views of Lake Ōhau and the Mackenzie plains await. From there, enjoy a thrilling descent through the Quailburn before reaching the Waitaki Valley.

For those with extra time, a 7km detour leads to the impressive Clay Cliffs, a striking natural wonder. Alternatively, unwind in the wood-fired hot tubs in Ōmarama, the perfect way to end the day’s ride. Spend the night in this peaceful township.

Cycle through some of the most scenic backcountry roads, passing the shimmering waters of Lake Benmore and Lake Aviemore. The climb to Benmore Dam rewards you with breathtaking views over the Waitaki Valley before a smooth descent toward Kurow.

Enjoy the changing landscapes as you follow the trail through rolling farmland and along quiet country roads. Arrive in Kurow, a charming town known for its vineyards and rich history, where you’ll spend the night.

Cycle alongside the Waitaki River, passing through a picturesque vineyard just beyond Kurow—an ideal spot for a coffee break. The route continues through open countryside before reaching the Māori rock art site, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

From here, the trail winds through wetlands before arriving in Duntroon, a small township with a historic charm. Accommodation may be in Duntroon or Rural Duntroon, which can slightly extend the cycling distance to up to 45km.

The final stretch of the journey takes you through rolling farmlands, past the striking Elephant Rock formations and the historic Rakis Railway Tunnel. As you approach the coast, the landscape shifts, leading you into Ōamaru, where the trail concludes at Friendly Bay on the Pacific Ocean.

Celebrate your achievement with a drink at Scott’s Brewery or take time to explore Ōamaru’s Victorian precinct, known for its charming architecture and vibrant arts scene. Choose to end your journey here or extend your stay with an extra night in town.