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Discover three of Central Otago's most spectacular trails on one unforgettable journey. The Gold Rush Gorges combines the dramatic new Kawarau Gorge Trail, the world-famous Lake Dunstan Trail, and the remote beauty of the Roxburgh Gorge Trail into an epic multi-day cycling adventure. This 3-day ride, begins in Gibbston Valley and winds through rugged backcountry landscapes alongside the mighty Kawarau River before arriving in the heart of Bannockburn wine country. From here, join the Lake Dunstan Trail, tracing turquoise waters through the stunning Cromwell Gorge on a route renowned for its engineering marvels, including cantilevered boardwalks and suspension bridges. |
Your adventure continues from Clyde into the remote Roxburgh Gorge, where historic gold mining routes, towering schist cliffs, and a scenic jet boat journey create one of New Zealand's most unique cycling experiences. Along the way, discover historic settlements, world-class wineries, welcoming cafe's and pubs, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the South Island. Rich in gold rush history, packed with unforgettable scenery, and filled with iconic trail moments, Gold Rush Gorges is Central Otago at its very best. |
Ride deep into the Kawarau Gorge, following the river through rugged rock formations and towering canyon walls
Experience the power of the Kawarau River, including the dramatic Nevis Rapids.
Step back in time at the Cromwell Heritage Precinct, with boutique galleries, retail stores, restaurants and cafes.
Pop into one of the many vineyards in Bannockburn to sample the local wines.
See the stonework faces of the Cairnmuir slide, a man-made terrace on the slopes above the lake.
Ride by New Zealand's third-largest hydro-dam, the Clyde Dam.
Jump on a Roxburgh Gorge Boat at Dr.'s Point for a fun, gold-rush history filled jet boat ride to continue on the trail.
Spend time in the town of Roxburgh and sample the local produce from its renowned orchards.
Spend 2 or 3 nights at accommodation in Cromwell, Clyde or Alexandra.
We had an absolute blast! Loved every minute of it. The accomodations were all outstanding, every place had its own charm and uniqueness. Breakfasts were all fab! The meal and Woolshed at Kokonga, curling, a spa under the stars at Inverlair, and complementary espresso coffee at Pitches among the many, many highlights. It was an extremely memorable experience with many laughs along the way, making memories with a fabulous bunch of friends. Thank you so much.
We had the most wonderful time doing the "Rail Trail in a Day"! The Central Cycle Co team were all super friendly, informative and efficient. We even got to ride a little extra at the end of the day, as we chose the rail trail to return to Clyde instead of the river loop and the friendly lady at the shop said, “Well if you are up to some more riding, why not go for just another 3 or 4 kms so that you can see the beauty of the river loop section”. We were so grateful for her generosity as the river truly is spectacular. The whole rail trial offers some spectacular views and ever-changing landscapes. It was also super cool to have the opportunity to go through 2 historic tunnels as well as over many historic bridges. My partner is an engineer, and he was like a kid in a candy store looking at all the old construction and marveling at the historic engineering methods. I on the other hand, I was particularly fond of interacting with the friendly donkeys at Chatto Creek and both of us just repeated the phrase “wow, it’s just so beautiful” multiple times throughout the day. If you are comfortable on a bike and up to a 56-60km bike ride, we cannot recommend this ride highly enough. Even though the trail is long, all of the riding is super easy, as it is relatively flat with no steep climbs. It is an amazing way to take in the scenery while you just cruise along on your awesome e-bike. It was by far one of our favourite activities on our summer trip to the South Island.
What a great experience in Central Otago! Had an awesome day cycling the Dunstan Trail. The company we went with were great. Staff were super friendly and knowledgeable as well professional. Highly recommend not only doing this trail as part of the Central Otago cycling options but this company. We were lucky to have a great sunny day, not too hot.
The trip was excellent and all your arrangements worked seamlessly. You sent us to great accommodation and tasty meals. A highlight for me was the Peters Farm homestay. Enjoyed it so much I am going to bring my wife and stay there for a week. I had a mountain bike which far exceeded my expectations in quality and condition. Gears worked perfectly, it was just the right weight and was a joy to ride. Congratulations on offering such a good experience.
Thanks for everything. We really can’t say enough good things about Central Cycle Trail and the people we have met who work there.
Couldn’t rate these guys highly enough. Within a couple of hours they had organised 3 day itinerary which included bike hire, accommodation, bookings for meals, transportation of our bags each day and transport to where we were starting. It was awesome. The trail is wonderful, beautiful scenery, great places to stay on the way - totally recommend the crows nest in Oturehua!
Just returned from a great holiday cycling the Otago Central Rail Trail. Superbly organised by Central Cycle Trail Co. Can highly recommend the company if you are thinking of doing the trail. We were a party of 6. Grandparents, parents, a 13 and 9 year old. We paced ourselves over 5 days. The scenery was spectacular and the peace and quiet of the trail took you away from the hustle and bustle of life.
We completed the Otago Rail Trail with a group of ten. I couldn’t fault a single thing 😀. The scenery was stunning. The bikes were brilliant. The accommodation served our needs perfectly. The transfers to and from the trail and the daily bag transfers ran like clockwork. Nothing was too much trouble for Central Cycle Trail Co. - they clearly wanted us to love it as much as they do! And we did. Even our kids aged 10 to 15 rated it a 10/10 holiday!! Highly recommend.
We travelled to South Island is October, I’ve always wanted to do some of the rail trail but with a 9 month and 4 year old - I wasn’t sure it was realistic. These guys were great, they gave us an itinerary suitable to us (mostly flat, scenic and lots of spots to stop), the gear was all in good condition (we hired a chariot, bike seat and panniers as well as the bikes), there was no stress and it turned out to be a great day. Thanks guys!