Lake Dunstan Cycleway With Bike Hire and Shuttle Service

The Lake Dunstan Cycleway is a must-try adventure for avid cyclists and nature enthusiasts alike. Offering a thrilling 3-hour journey through the stunning landscapes of Queenstown, the route boasts breathtaking cliff clip-ons and panoramic vistas of the serene Lake Dunstan and the majestic Southern Alps. With convenient bike rental and shuttle services available, travelers can enjoy a hassle-free experience, complete with packed lunches and refreshments. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a novice looking to explore the great outdoors, this cycleway promises an unforgettable adventure that’ll leave you yearning for more. But the true test lies in embarking on this exhilarating journey and discovering the wonders that await along the way.

Key Points

• The Lake Dunstan Cycleway is a 3-hour cycling route in the Queenstown region of New Zealand, offering stunning views of the lake and mountains.

• The experience includes bike rental (standard or electric), shuttle service to the trailhead, packed lunch, snacks, and bottled water for a hassle-free adventure.

• Moderate fitness level is required as the trail features demanding sections, and it is not wheelchair accessible.

• Booking options are available with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity, and the overall rating is 4.0 out of 5.

• The cycleway features unique cliff clip-ons that challenge experienced cyclists, providing an adrenaline-fueled journey through dramatic landscapes.

Overview of Lake Dunstan Cycleway

Situated in the picturesque Queenstown region of New Zealand, the Lake Dunstan Cycleway is an add-on to the renowned Otago Rail Trail, offering experienced and adventure-seeking cyclists a thrilling journey through stunning lakeside and mountain landscapes.

This approximately 3-hour cycling route features cliff clip-ons, providing cyclists with breathtaking vistas of the serene Lake Dunstan and the majestic Southern Alps in the distance.

Suitable for those with a moderate fitness level, the cycleway challenges riders with its rugged terrain, but rewards them with an unforgettable outdoor adventure amidst the region’s natural beauty.

Whether you’re looking to conquer the trail by standard or electric bike, the Lake Dunstan Cycleway promises an exhilarating experience for seasoned cyclists.

Bike Rental and Shuttle Services

For the Lake Dunstan Cycleway, riders can conveniently rent either standard or electric bikes, with shuttle services available to transport them to the starting point at The Junction Lookout in Cromwell. Riders can be picked up from Clyde, Cromwell, or Wanaka, with the meeting point being The Junction Lookout in Cromwell. The bike rental and shuttle services include lunch, snacks, and bottled water, ensuring a comfortable and well-supported experience.

Bike Rental	Shuttle Services	Included Amenities
Standard or e-bike	Pickup from Clyde, Cromwell, or Wanaka	Bike hire, lunch, snacks, bottled water
Rental available	Meeting point at The Junction Lookout, Cromwell	All-inclusive package
Wide selection of bikes	Convenient transportation to starting point	No need to worry about logistics

Included Amenities

The bike rental and shuttle services for the Lake Dunstan Cycleway come with a range of included amenities to ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable experience for riders.

Cyclists can choose between standard or electric bike rentals, both of which are provided as part of the package. Shuttle services are available to pick up riders from Clyde, Cromwell, or Wanaka, with the meeting point being at the Junction Lookout in Cromwell.

During the cycling adventure, riders will also receive a packed lunch, snacks, and bottled water to keep them fueled and hydrated.

With these thoughtful inclusions, cyclists can focus on soaking in the stunning lake and mountain views along the Cycleway without worrying about the logistical details.

Health and Fitness Requirements

The Lake Dunstan Cycleway isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires riders to be free of any serious medical conditions like heart problems.

Participants need a moderate level of physical fitness to tackle the trail’s challenges, with a maximum group size of 11 travelers.

The trail features several demanding sections, including:

• Navigating narrow, cliff-side paths with breathtaking views

• Dealing with steep inclines and technical terrain

• Maintaining control on loose gravel and rocky surfaces

Those with the right fitness level and sense of adventure will find the Lake Dunstan Cycleway an exhilarating experience, but it’s not suitable for everyone.

Riders should be prepared for a challenging yet rewarding journey through the stunning Otago landscape.

Booking Information

Travelers can book the Lake Dunstan Cycleway experience from $91.02, with confirmations received within 48 hours subject to availability. Wanaka Bike Tours, the operator, offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled activity.

While the overall rating is 4.0 out of 5 based on 8 reviews, there are currently no 5-star ratings for this offering. The cycleway package includes bike rentals, either standard or e-bikes, as well as shuttle services to and from the trailhead. Lunch, snacks, and bottled water are also provided.

However, the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate level of physical fitness, with a maximum group size of 11 travelers. Prospective participants should ensure they meet the health and fitness requirements before booking this adventure-seeking cycling experience.

Stunning Lake and Mountain Views

One of the highlights of the Lake Dunstan Cycleway is the stunning vistas it offers, with sweeping views of the serene lake and the majestic mountains that frame the landscape.

Cyclists can expect to be awestruck by the natural beauty that surrounds them as they navigate the clifftop trails, taking in the breathtaking panoramas that unfold at every turn.

The trail boasts:

• Dramatic cliffs plunging into the crystal-clear waters of Lake Dunstan

• Towering peaks of the Southern Alps, including the iconic Remarkables range

• Serene moments of solitude as you pedal through this untouched corner of New Zealand

The ever-changing scenery and the sense of adventure make the Lake Dunstan Cycleway a truly unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

Cliff Clip-ons and Adventure Cycling

Although the stunning lake and mountain views are a major draw, the true thrill of the Lake Dunstan Cycleway lies in its adventurous cliff clip-ons, which challenge experienced cyclists with their precarious paths and breathtaking vistas.

These narrow, suspended platforms that cling to the rocky cliffs demand exceptional balance, nerve, and skill from riders.

The trail’s most daring sections feature steep ascents and descents, sharp turns, and narrow passages that seem to hover above the shimmering waters of Lake Dunstan.

For the intrepid cyclist, navigating these cliff clip-ons provides an adrenaline-fueled journey through New Zealand’s dramatic landscape, offering a true test of one’s cycling prowess and a chance to revel in the pure exhilaration of the ride.

Pickup Locations and Trail Directions

Riders can be picked up at several convenient locations along the Lake Dunstan Cycleway, including Clyde, Cromwell, and Wanaka, allowing them to easily access the trailhead and begin their adventure.

The meeting point for the shuttle service is The Junction Lookout in Cromwell 9310, New Zealand. Riders can choose to be picked up in Cromwell or Clyde, depending on the direction they want to travel along the trail.

The shuttle service is included in the booking, ensuring a hassle-free experience from start to finish. Whether you’re riding a standard or e-bike, the shuttle will have you on the trail in no time, ready to take in the stunning lake and mountain views.

• Pickup locations: Clyde, Cromwell, and Wanaka

• Meeting point: The Junction Lookout, Cromwell 9310, New Zealand

• Shuttle service included in the booking

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Bike on the Tour?

Yes, guests can bring their own bikes on the tour, though bike rental is included. Riders should ensure their bike is in good working order and suitable for the trail’s challenging terrain and conditions.

What Is the Difficulty Level of the Trail?

The trail is suitable for experienced, adventure-seeking cyclists only. It features challenging cliff clip-ons and requires a moderate physical fitness level. The terrain is not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with serious medical conditions.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The cycleway does not have any age restrictions, though it requires a moderate fitness level. Children can participate, but the trail’s challenging terrain and exposure may make it unsuitable for very young cyclists. Travelers of all ages can enjoy this adventure, as long as they meet the physical requirements.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Customization of the tour itinerary is not typically offered. The tour follows a pre-determined route and schedule to provide the best possible experience for all participants. However, riders can discuss any special needs or preferences with the tour operator prior to booking.

What Should I Bring With Me on the Ride?

Riders should pack water, snacks, sun protection, and extra layers. They’ll also want to wear comfortable, breathable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and bring any necessary personal items like medication. The trail has no shops, so coming prepared is essential for an enjoyable ride.

Recap

The Lake Dunstan Cycleway offers an unforgettable cycling adventure in the stunning Queenstown region.

With convenient bike hire and shuttle services, travelers can easily access this exhilarating trail overlooking Lake Dunstan and the majestic Southern Alps.

Packed lunches, snacks, and water ensure a hassle-free experience, making it an ideal outdoor escapade for cyclists of all fitness levels.