Great Taste Ride

We have two wonderful day ride options that will take you through some of the best sections along the trail, all easily accessible from our Cycle Journeys Depot in Nelson.

Our Great Taste Trail day ride options are suitable for all levels of riding, so choose from our options below, or talk to us about hiring a bike to explore for the day.

Tunnel and Rail Trail (54km) 4-5 hours $89pp

• Enroute to Spooners Tunnel our driver will highlight key places of interest. Upon arrival and once inside, information panels provide a fascinating history of what is the longest disused tunnel in New Zealand at 1.35 kms in length – so make sure you have your headlamp turned on! (You can hire them with your booking if you don’t have one of your own).
  The trail then descends enroute back to Nelson through a number of small towns, passing through rural landscapes and alongside distinctive vineyards and hop gardens. Historical monuments provide interesting stopping points as you approach the fertile Waimea Plain via the dedicated trail and its purpose-built suspension bridge.
  From Richmond, you begin your return to the urban environment with local breweries, the Nelson Classic Car Museum, Pic’s Peanut Butter World and local cafes all competing for your attention. Staying on the bike trail, the route slowly rises over the low saddle and descends via the old train line into Nelson city and finally back to our depot which is conveniently located right on the trail.

City to Seaside Māpua (35km) 2-3 hours $99pp

• The ride begins with a slow rise via the old rail line over to Richmond. From here, the trail can deliver you to either Pic’s Peanut Butter World or the Nelson Classic Car Museum – or both! Spend time exploring these unique local offerings before returning to the trail and heading on to Richmond.
  At the Waimea Inlet, the trail weaves around the wetlands and regeneration projects which are restoring this natural landscape. Boardwalks and trails provide the means to skirt the tidal inlet before the spectacular suspension bridge over the Waimea River. The trail then crosses to Rabbit Island and its beautiful sandy beaches before a ferry crossing takes you to the coastal township of Māpua.
  Spend some time in Māpua and enjoy the waterfront restaurants, cafes, galleries and stores before catching our shuttle back to Nelson mid-afternoon.