BEST FOR: Reawakening your senses. This trail looks, tastes and sounds good.
NELSON ROUND TRIP 2-4 days
200km
Breathe in the tonic that is crisp, ocean air along the sparkling shores of Kaiteriteri, or watch a master glassblower manipulate great coils of molten glass; admire an army of grape vines falling into formation or sip the end result: a cool drop of snappy chardonnay. This is one hedonistic ride.
A
trail with many options, all 200km of it is dipped in art galleries and boutique shops, fruit stalls, cafés, craft beer and wineries. Absorb the rural, urban, coastal and riverside scenery, with delightful forays into Tasman Bay towns. Those looking for short hops and day rides are just as welcome as those after a full-blown, four-day affair.
GREAT RIDE • TASMAN’S GREAT TASTE TRAIL
TASMAN’S GREAT TASTE Trail
Biking vineyards in autumn © Oliver Weber/www.nelsontasman.nz
TRAIL INFO
2-4 Days 200km
TRAIL GRADES: NELSON TO WAKEFIELD, 34KM GRADE 1 (EASIEST) WAKEFIELD TO TAPAWERA, 31KM GRADE 2 (EASY) TAPAWERA TO RIWAKA, 63KM GRADE 3 (INTERMEDIATE) Includes On-road section
As is common in New Zealand, looking seaward is steeped with reward: from Nelson, it’s not far to the bird-filled Waimea Inlet. As the largest enclosed estuary in the South Island, a wide range of seabirds will enchant. Other highlights include the causeway to Rabbit Island/ Moturoa. Popular for its picnic spots, pine forest and sandy beaches, a pleasant jaunt across the island leads to Ferry Landing. Pop your bike on the boat and enjoy a 200m hop to Māpua, where the cafés and shops are bountiful.
RICHMOND TO KAITERITERI, 64KM GRADE 1-3 (EASIEST, EASY, INTERMEDIATE)
Further along the route, the coastal pathway is licked with a salty breeze, while inland settlements such as Brightwater and Wakefield are pretty much paved with wine. For experiences that will arouse your internal fear detector, crossing the swing bridge over Waimea River, and later, spooky Spooners Tunnel will enthral.
MĀPUA FERRY: The 200m, 7min ferry journey across Māpua Inlet will take you between Rabbit Island and Māpua Wharf and back again. This is the only way to make the crossing; the alternative route is a hilly 15km via busy SH 60 and not recommended. Check the timetable ahead of time as sailings are infrequent.
MOBILE PHONE COVERAGE: Good across the coastal section. Gaps in reception on some of the inland sections south of Wakefield and Motueka. DRINKING WATER: Water bottles can be filled at various settlements; be sure to carry plenty on hot summer days. TYPE OF BIKE: A hybrid bike is suitable unless you plan on tackling the Kaiteriteri MTB park.
GRADE 1 (EASIEST) LEFT: E-biking – Gentle Cycling © Lumiere/www.nelsontasman.nz
GRADE 2 (EASY) GRADE 3 (INTERMEDIATE)
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