Tunnel to Town – Via Mapua

The ‘Tunnel to Town – Via Mapua’ cycling experience offers adventurous riders a chance to traverse one of the longest out-of-commission railway tunnels in the Southern Hemisphere. Navigating through the dimly lit 6.8 km Spooner’s Tunnel is only the beginning of this scenic journey, as cyclists then emerge into a picturesque landscape of farmland, orchards, and vineyards before culminating in a relaxing ferry ride to the charming town of Mapua. With diverse terrain and unique sights, this cycling adventure promises to delight both the novice and seasoned rider. But what lies in store for those who embark on this remarkable journey?

Key Points

• This cycling experience takes riders from Spooner’s Tunnel to the charming town of Mapua, showcasing diverse landscapes along the way.
• The 60 km route includes a ferry ride and offers opportunities to explore local shops, restaurants, and a farmers’ market in Mapua.
• Cyclists will traverse Spooner’s Tunnel, the longest out-of-commission railway tunnel in the Southern Hemisphere, creating a unique historical adventure.
• The cycling tour provides a range of terrain, from flat paved paths to rolling landscapes, catering to various fitness levels.
• Recommended gear and transfers are included, making this a convenient and enjoyable cycling experience for both experienced and novice riders.

Overview

The Tunnel to Town activity provides cyclists with a unique experience to explore the picturesque landscapes of Nelson, New Zealand. It features a cycling trip from Nelson to Wakefield via the historic Spooner’s Tunnel.

With a duration of around 60 km from Spooners Tunnel to Mapua, the activity has received an impressive 5.0 rating from 9 reviews, showcasing its popularity among cycling enthusiasts.

Riders can expect to traverse through diverse terrain, including farmland, orchards, vineyards, forests, and wine country, culminating in a ferry ride to the charming village of Mapua.

The activity caters to cycling enthusiasts, offering recommendations for upgrading to e-bikes for longer rides and considering health factors for certain travelers.

Included Equipment and Transport

What equipment and transport options does the Tunnel to Town activity provide?

Cyclists can expect a trail comfort bike, light, helmet, repair kit, carrier bag, odometer, and trail map as part of the included biking equipment. Plus, bottled water and snacks are provided for the journey.

The activity also offers the following transport options:

1. Transfers from Nelson to Spooners Tunnel

2. Transfers from Mapua Wharf to Nelson

3. The option to take the Mapua Ferry

4. The ability to cycle via Mapua, with the recommendation to upgrade to e-bikes for longer rides.

These inclusions ensure that participants can focus on the scenic ride through farmland, orchards, vineyards, forests, and wine country, as well as the unique tunnel experience.

Route and Experience

Travelers embark on a scenic ride through farmland, orchards, vineyards, forests, and wine country as they make their way from Nelson to Wakefield via the Spooner’s Tunnel, or vice versa. This unique experience allows them to traverse the longest out-of-commission railway tunnel in the Southern Hemisphere, seeing the tunnel’s rich history and captivating atmosphere. Upon reaching the end of the tunnel, cyclists can enjoy a ferry ride to the charming village of Mapua, where they can explore the local stores and restaurants.

Route Highlights	Distance	Duration	Terrain
Farmland, Orchards, Vineyards	30 km	2-3 hours	Flat, Paved
Spooner’s Tunnel	6.8 km	45 mins	Flat, Paved
Forests, Wine Country	24 km	1-2 hours	Rolling, Paved
Mapua Ferry	1.2 km	15 mins	Water

Recommendations and Considerations

Cycling enthusiasts will find the Tunnel to Town experience well-suited to their interests, though it may not be accessible for all travelers. The route isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions, as the journey can be physically demanding. However, the option to upgrade to e-bikes for longer rides makes the experience more accessible.

Here are a few key considerations:

1. The trail isn’t wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility challenges may face difficulties.

2. Riders should be prepared for changing weather conditions and bring appropriate gear.

3. The tunnel itself can be dark and damp, so a good bike light is essential.

4. Visitors are encouraged to explore the charming village of Mapua at the end of the ride, with its shops and restaurants.

Booking Information

The Tunnel to Town experience typically starts at 9:00 am, with a meeting point located on Halifax Street in Nelson 7010, New Zealand.

Travelers can conveniently reserve their spot and pay later, while the cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled activity.

Prices for this cycling adventure start from $106.20, with a lowest price guarantee.

This scenic route through farmland, orchards, vineyards, forests, and wine country culminates in a ferry ride to the charming village of Mapua, where riders can explore the local stores and restaurants.

Suitable for cycling enthusiasts, the experience offers the opportunity to ride through the longest out-of-commission railway tunnel in the Southern Hemisphere.

Scenic Ride

Winding through a picturesque landscape, the scenic ride takes cyclists on a journey through farmland, orchards, vineyards, forests, and renowned wine country. The route showcases the diverse natural beauty of the region, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn.

Some highlights include:

1. Traversing lush, rolling farmlands dotted with grazing livestock.

2. Cycling past thriving apple and stone fruit orchards, their trees laden with ripe produce.

3. Weaving through verdant vineyards, catching glimpses of the award-winning wineries that dot the area.

4. Immersing yourself in the serene tranquility of the native forests, their towering trees providing welcome shade.

This picturesque ride allows cyclists to fully appreciate the stunning landscapes that make Nelson and its surroundings a premier destination.

Tunnel Experience

Riders embark on a truly unique experience as they journey through the longest out-of-commission railway tunnel in the Southern Hemisphere, Spooner’s Tunnel. This remarkable feat of engineering, stretching over 2 km in length, provides cyclists with an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the region’s rich history and explore a hidden gem.

As they pedal through the dimly lit, cavernous passage, the echoes of the tunnel transport them back in time, evoking a sense of wonder and adventure. The contrast between the dark, enclosed space and the verdant landscapes on either end of the tunnel adds to the exhilaration of the ride, making it a highlight of the Tunnel to Town experience.

End Point

Reaching the end of the Tunnel to Town adventure, cyclists are ferried across the Mapua Wharf, arriving in a charming village brimming with local shops and eateries.

After the scenic ride and the exhilarating tunnel experience, visitors can:

1. Browse the quaint stores and galleries featuring handcrafted artisanal goods and regional produce.

2. Indulge in delectable cuisine at the waterfront restaurants, showcasing the area’s renowned wineries and farm-to-table offerings.

3. Explore the bustling Mapua Wharf, home to a lively farmers’ market on weekends.

4. Unwind and soak in the relaxed, laid-back atmosphere of this picturesque coastal community.

With its inviting ambiance and abundance of local discoveries, Mapua provides the perfect culmination to the Tunnel to Town cycling journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Bicycle for This Activity?

Yes, you can bring your own bicycle for this activity. The experience allows participants to use their own bikes, as long as they are in good working condition and suitable for the terrain.

Is There a Support Vehicle Available During the Ride?

The activity does provide a support vehicle during the ride. This vehicle can transport any riders who need a break or assistance at any point along the route, ensuring a comfortable and manageable cycling experience for all participants.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Route?

There are several restroom facilities along the cycling route, allowing riders to take breaks and freshen up as needed. These facilities are located at various points of interest and town centers along the way.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Start/End Locations?

Yes, you can typically customize the itinerary or start/end locations for this cycling tour. Many providers offer flexible options to accommodate your preferences and needs, such as adjusting the route or meeting point.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

There are no explicit age restrictions for participants, but the activity may not be suitable for very young children or elderly travelers due to the physical demands of the cycling. The operator can advise on appropriate age ranges.

Recap

The ‘Tunnel to Town – Via Mapua’ cycling experience offers an exhilarating adventure through diverse landscapes.

Cyclists navigate the historic Spooner’s Tunnel before emerging into picturesque farmland, orchards, and vineyards.

The scenic route culminates in a ferry ride to Mapua, where participants can explore local shops and waterfront eateries, creating a delightful and memorable day out.