West Coast Escape

The wild West Coast is not to be missed. Explore the spectacular scenery by bike, bus and on foot as we journey from Queenstown to Christchurch, including a glacier walk and scenic train ride finish.This trip is an excellent extension to the Milford Wilderness experience.

Price for 6 day adventure - 2009/2010 : NZ$2,465 . Single Supplement (extra) - NZ$598

Departure Dates - 2009/2010 : Nov 13th , Dec 10th , Jan 8th , Feb 4th , Mar 3rd , Mar 30th

Day 1- Out from Queenstown we cycle the easy lakeside track towards Arrowtown where we explore this beautiful old gold-mining town. We drive to the top of the Crown Range with its spectacular views into the Wakatipu basin. By cycle we descend into the Cardrona valley for lunch at the historic hotel. Cycling onwards beneath the high tussock pastures we reach Wanaka. Afternoon tea and a break before cycling one of our most popular rides. The Fishermans Track follows the banks of the Clutha River before heading back to Wanaka. (L,D)

Day 2- An early cycle takes us to Lake Hawea. We drive to the top of the Haast Pass, and walk some of the scenic short tracks in the area. We cycle down through the 'Gates of Haast' on sealed roads to the flats of the Landsborough River for lunch. We finally reach the headquarters of the World Heritage Park for a video presentation which helps our understanding of the area.( B,L)

Day 3- This morning we cycle peaceful forest roads to Bruce Bay and then bus to the mighty Fox Glacier. Optional helicopter rides are available or a visit to nearby Lake Mathieson. We bus and walk to the Franz Josef Glacier where we we have a guided walk to view the advancing terminal face before travelling on to Hari Hari. (B,L,D)

Day 4- We have time to cycle the road between Fox and Franz Josef Glacier where we can walk toa viewpoint of the advancing terminal face. The rest of the day is available for sightseeing in the township or for taking optional flightseeing tours. (B,L)

Day 5 - With some spectacular views as a backdrop, we cycle through the beech forests to hidden Lake Ianthe. Throughout the day we will cycle and explore the numerous historic sites and gold mines, as we continue up the coast to the rainforests of Lakes Kaniere and Mahinapua and the quiet roads and tracks which surround them. (B,L,D)

Day 6 - From the quiet township we travel by bus and bike inland through the beech forests to Lake Brunner. There are stunning lakeside views before returning to the West Coast highway, where we cycle much of the route of the famous Coast to Coast race. Through sweeping rural landscapes the road slowly gains height into the alps and the rugged mountain peaks. By coach we travel over Arthurs Pass to start again amongst the alpine pastures before the swoop down into the small township and a final lunch. Nearby bush walks fills in the time, until finally we board the Trans Alpine Express for a leisurely scenic trip back into Christchurch. Our coach will meet and deliver you to your accommodation. Accommodation; Own responsibility in Christchurch but it may be booked ahead for you if desired. (B,L)

Included in trip cost
• All breakfasts and lunches
• 3 evening meals
• Guides and transportation
• Accommodation as detailed on a twin share basis
• Guided walk on the Fox Glacier
• Trans Alpine Express from Arthurs Pass to Christchurch
• Cycle and helmet. We use a 24 speed hybrid cycle on the West Coast Escape trip because it provides a more upright cycle position which our clients have found easier on their backs.
• All activities as shown
• Access and Concession fees to the Department of Conservation land
• New Zealand Goods and Service Tax (GST)

Not included
• Accommodation on Day 6
• 3 evening meals
• Personal expenses

Southern Explorer

This trip is the combination of the Beach to Beech, Wine and Whales, the Milford Wildnerness and the West Coast Escape.

Enjoy the spectacular contrast of the South Island as you explore from one end of the island to the other by cycle, with ample rest days en route to make it truly a holiday to remember. From the bush-clad Lewis Pass, the steamy hot pools of Hanmer Springs, the wines of Marlborough and the whales of Kaikoura, these five days are packed with memories before we return to Christchurch.

Explore the 'Garden City' in your first free day before heading south enjoying the hospitality of our gracious farm-stay and the spectacular views while walking beneath Mount Cook. A free day at Glenorchy, just out of the adventure capital Queenstown, provides the opportunity to jet boat, kayak, walk or relax before our interlude onto Milford Sound and back to Queenstown. Two days to savour the regions adventures before onto the spectacular West Coast with its grinding glaciers which are en-route to the sea, sweeping through awesome rainforest.

Enjoy the lodges and walking on the glacier before returning over the alpine Arthurs Pass and a final swoop across the plains on board the Tranz Alpine Express to journeys end in Christchurch.
21 days of cycling and walking across this amazing island of contrasts.

* fully lodged across the wide spectrum of gracious farm stays, lodges, hotels, motels, and even ketches on Milford Sound!
* full day walking options available to stretch a different set of muscles.
* 4 optional rest days or 4 chances to thrill and excite in whatever your choice of excitement!
* enjoy the delightful wine and cusine, from our wineries and restaurants to our delicious lunches.
* friendly and helpful guides with comfortable and supportive backup vehicle close at hand whenever your want them!
* see our country the way New Zealanders would want to show it

Departure Dates 2007 : January 22nd, January 29th, February 10th (reverse), February 17th, February 24th March 8th (reverse), March 15th, March 22nd

Prices : NZ$8,449 . Single Supplement (extra) NZ$2,095

Mountains and Glaciers

This trip is the combination of the Milford Wildnerness and the West Coast Escape.

Spectacular mountains and awesome glaciers! An 18 day trip providing a unique view of glaciers grinding down through west coast rainforest contrasted with the emptiness of the tussocklands of the southern alps rain shadow. Enjoy the expanse of empty roads and swooping descents as this trip cycles from Christchurch through to Queenstown and out to the magnificent fiord of Milford Sound. A unique overnight experience allows us to watch the sun set over the Tasman ocean often to the splash of dolphins.

Back in Queenstown we have two days to relax and enjoy this adventure wonderland before departing again for Haast Pass and onto the mighty west coast with its spectacular glaciers and rainforests. Walking on ice wil be a new experience for many as we tread across the slowly moving surface with our guided party. Finally a climb over Arthurs Pass and the last leg on the Tranz Alpine Express back to Christchurch.

* 18 days of cycling and walking across this amazing island of contrasts.
* fully lodged across the wide spectrum of gracious farmstays, lodges, hotels, motels, and even ketches on Milford Sound!
* 3 optional rest days or an opportunity to thrill and excite in whatever is your choice of adrenaline!
* full day walking options available to stretch a different set of muscles.
* enjoy delightful wine & cuisine, from our wineries and restaurants to our delicious lunches.
* friendly and helpful guides with comfortable and supportive backup vehicles close at hand whenever you want them!

Departure Dates 2007 : January 29th , February 24th, March 22nd

Prices : NZ$6,195 . Single Supplement (extra) NZ$1,539