Tasman's Great Taste Trail
- Grade: Easy to Intermediate
- Duration: 1-4 days
- Total Length: 38 - 175km
- Location: Nelson
This cycling trail takes a leisurely tour of Tasman's most beautiful coastal and inland areas. Cyclists will pass vineyards, breweries, orchards and countless numbers of places to stop and enjoy some quality cuisine.
As a loop the trail is 165km long, but it can easily be broken down into portions for short cycles. Or spread it across a few days and experience all the fun. Tasman's Great Taste Trail starts from Nelson Airport and offers panoramic coastal views over Tasman Bay, Waimea Estuary and the Western Ranges, including Mt Arthur, Mt Owen and Mt Crusader. Cyclists pass over boardwalks, home to a range of internationally significant bird species including the White Heron and Royal Spoonbill.
From here the trail crosses to Rabbit Island, where cyclists can take a boat trip to Mapua wharf and enjoy cottage industry shops, cafes and restaurants. From Mapua the route leads via Tasman and Harley Road to Motueka, which hosts award winning wineries, then on to Kaiteriteri, the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park.
The Motueka Valley section of the trail from Riwaka goes to Woodstock on country roads along the Motueka River's west bank. The landscape is full of rivers and rolling hills with a backdrop of forest and mountains. The Great Taste Trail returns to Nelson on cycle paths and lanes.
For more information, view the Tasman's Great Taste Trail page provided by NZ Cycle Trail.
Nelson
Find out more about the Nelson region by following the links below:
- Nelson Accommodation
- Nelson Attractions and Activities
- Nelson Cuisine and Dining
- Nelson Tours
- Nelson Transport
- Nelson Visitor Information
All Nelson Accommodation can be booked online.