Ride from historic Arrowtown through the Kawarau Gorge to the vineyards of Gibbston on a self-guided full-day cycle. Cover about 25 km of gravel trail, sample at cellar doors, and finish with shuttle pickup in the valley.
Ride from historic Arrowtown through the Kawarau Gorge to the vineyards of Gibbston on a self-guided full-day cycle. Cover about 25 km of gravel trail, sample at cellar doors, and finish with shuttle pickup in the valley.
Sunlight slants across willow-lined rivers as riders clip in at Arrowtown, coffee cup in hand and a map folded into a jersey pocket. The shuttle from Queenstown drops you where the Arrow River Trail begins; the first kilometers are forgiving—flat, gravel ribbons following green-edged water—until the Kawarau Gorge narrows and the landscape takes on a sharper, schist-strewn voice.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Around The Basin Bike Queenstown · Queenstown, Otago
Sunlight slants across willow-lined rivers as riders clip in at Arrowtown, coffee cup in hand and a map folded into a jersey pocket. The shuttle from Queenstown drops you where the Arrow River Trail begins; the first kilometers are forgiving—flat, gravel ribbons following green-edged water—until the Kawarau Gorge narrows and the landscape takes on a sharper, schist-strewn voice.
This route threads a short history of Central Otago—gold-rush Arrowtown’s wooden-fronted charm gives way to the 19th-century engineering of suspension bridges and the modern spectacle of the Kawarau Bungy. Geology here is honest: rounded river stones, exposed schist, and terraces cut by past rivers. Culture is vineyard-forward; Gibbston has grown a reputation for cool-climate Pinot Noir, cellar doors carved into caves, and a tavern or two that trades in pizza as readily as conversation.
Expect roughly 25 km of undulating gravel and compact track with short climbs and sweeping valley views. The day is modular—stop at six-plus cellar doors, sample a gin bar, linger on a winery lawn, then call the shuttle from your chosen pickup point. Bikes and helmets are provided; mechanical support is available by phone.
Practical notes: start early to avoid midday crowds, bring layered clothing for changeable mountain weather, and carry water and basic snacks—tastings add up. Moderate fitness and basic gravel-bike handling are advised; routes are suitable for most riders comfortable on mixed-surface trails. Finish with a relaxed shuttle back to Queenstown, bottle in hand and a ride well earned.
The ride covers about 25 km of undulating gravel over 6–8 hours including tastings; it’s rated moderate—suitable for cyclists comfortable on mixed surfaces and short climbs.
Tastings are not included; many wineries accept walk-ins but groups of 4+ should pre-book to guarantee space.
Basic mechanical support is available by phone during the ride; the operator can advise or arrange assistance if needed.
Yes, the shuttle collects riders from a nominated winery in Gibbston Valley—confirm your chosen pickup when you book or on the day.
Around The Basin Bike Queenstown operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




Sunlight slants across willow-lined rivers as riders clip in at Arrowtown, coffee cup in hand and a map folded into a jersey pocket. The shuttle from Queenstown drops you where the Arrow River Trail begins; the first kilometers are forgiving—flat, gravel ribbons following green-edged water—until the Kawarau Gorge narrows and the landscape takes on a sharper, schist-strewn voice.
Sunlight slants across willow-lined rivers as riders clip in at Arrowtown, coffee cup in hand and a map folded into a jersey pocket. The shuttle from Queenstown drops you where the Arrow River Trail begins; the first kilometers are forgiving—flat, gravel ribbons following green-edged water—until the Kawarau Gorge narrows and the landscape takes on a sharper, schist-strewn voice.
This route threads a short history of Central Otago—gold-rush Arrowtown’s wooden-fronted charm gives way to the 19th-century engineering of suspension bridges and the modern spectacle of the Kawarau Bungy. Geology here is honest: rounded river stones, exposed schist, and terraces cut by past rivers. Culture is vineyard-forward; Gibbston has grown a reputation for cool-climate Pinot Noir, cellar doors carved into caves, and a tavern or two that trades in pizza as readily as conversation.
Expect roughly 25 km of undulating gravel and compact track with short climbs and sweeping valley views. The day is modular—stop at six-plus cellar doors, sample a gin bar, linger on a winery lawn, then call the shuttle from your chosen pickup point. Bikes and helmets are provided; mechanical support is available by phone.
Practical notes: start early to avoid midday crowds, bring layered clothing for changeable mountain weather, and carry water and basic snacks—tastings add up. Moderate fitness and basic gravel-bike handling are advised; routes are suitable for most riders comfortable on mixed-surface trails. Finish with a relaxed shuttle back to Queenstown, bottle in hand and a ride well earned.