5 Day Otago Rail Trail Classic Guided Cycle Tour

After a morning briefing in Queenstown, your journey begins with a scenic ride along the Frankton Trail, hugging the shoreline of Lake Wakatipu. From here, follow the Twin Rivers and Countryside Trails to Arrowtown—an historic gold mining village—for lunch.

In the afternoon, cycle the Arrow River Bridges Trail, crossing two spectacular suspension bridges before finishing at the historic Kawarau Bridge, where you may catch a glimpse of bungy jumpers in action. Load up and enjoy a scenic transfer through the Kawarau Gorge to the charming town of Clyde.

Begin your Rail Trail journey at the original trailhead in Clyde, riding past wide plains and mountain vistas. After a gentle climb beyond Chatto Creek, stop near Omakau for lunch. A quick detour brings you to Ophir’s historic township and the Raggedy Range lookout for sweeping views.

Back on the trail, ride an easy final 9 km to Lauder. In the afternoon, head to St Bathans for a walk around the surreal Blue Lake or a self-guided wander through town. Wrap up the day with dinner and a relaxed evening at the local pub.

Today features the first tunnels and viaducts of the trail, weaving through Poolburn Gorge and into the Idaburn Valley. Stop at Hayes Engineering Works and Oturehua’s old-style grocery store, before climbing to the trail’s highest point and rolling downhill into Ranfurly.

In the afternoon, visit Naseby—a forestry town with charm and character. Try your hand at curling on the Southern Hemisphere’s only indoor rink or relax with a stroll or drink at the local pub.

Cycle through open farmland and the scenic Taieri Gorge, with more bridges, tunnels, and sweeping views. Stop for a break at Hyde, then continue across gentle plains toward Middlemarch, the official end of the trail. After a well-earned café lunch, transfer to Dunedin.

Spend your final night at the stunning Larnach Castle, perched on the Otago Peninsula. Built in 1871, this is New Zealand’s only historic castle. Enjoy a four-course ‘Trust the Chef’ group dinner in the castle’s elegant dining room.

Begin your final ride along the Otago Peninsula, overlooking the harbour and volcanic hills. This peaceful ride ends at Portobello, where you'll change and enjoy a picnic lunch before boarding the Sootychaser for a mini wildlife cruise.

Spot albatross, seals, shags, and more while hearing tales of harbour history and passing Larnach Castle from the water. The tour ends with a drop-off near Dunedin’s historic train station. Evening flights or extended stays in the city are both easy to arrange.