Thinking about exploring the Marlborough wine region but want to skip the usual guided tour? The Self-Guided Wine Tours by Bike with Lorelle & Greg might just be what you’re looking for. This experience offers the chance to pedal your way through some of New Zealand’s most famous wineries, all at your own pace, with plenty of helpful touches to make your day smooth and enjoyable.
What we love about this setup is how it combines relaxed cycling with the opportunity to sample top-notch wines in a beautiful setting. The bikes are all about comfort—think cruiser style with plush seats, baskets, and wine-specific panniers—so you won’t be fighting your bike or worrying about gear. Plus, the team’s warm welcome and helpful advice make a big difference, especially if you’re new to biking or unfamiliar with the area.
On the flip side, one thing to consider is that this is a self-guided experience, so you’ll need to be comfortable navigating on your own and managing your time. While the provided map and video are incredibly helpful, it’s not a guided tour where someone’s leading you step-by-step. Also, tasting fees at the wineries are extra and can range from around $15 to $30 per person, so budget accordingly.
This tour works best for those who enjoy a good mix of independent exploration and wine tasting, and who like the idea of cycling through scenic countryside without the pressure of a guided group. If you’re after flexibility, comfort, and a chance to enjoy Marlborough’s vineyards on your own terms, this could be a perfect fit.
Key Points
- Flexible scheduling with two bike hire time slots to suit your plans
- Comfortable, well-equipped bikes including baskets and wine panniers
- Self-guided experience with detailed maps, videos, and staff support
- Pickup and shuttle options available if staying nearby within 15 km
- Multiple cellar doors to visit easily, with a few requiring pre-booking
- Relaxed pace ideal for wine lovers who prefer independence over group tours
The Experience of a Self-Guided Winery Ride
When you sign up for Lorelle & Greg’s self-guided bike tour, you’re setting yourself up for a laid-back day of wine tasting, scenic riding, and delicious local food. The process starts at their base in Renwick, which is right in the heart of Marlborough’s wine country. You get to choose a time slot—either 10 am to 4 pm or 11 am to 5 pm—and can be picked up from your accommodation if you’re within 15 km, or just drive yourself and use their free parking.
The team is genuinely friendly and eager to help you make the most of your day. They will give you a comprehensive cellar door map and run through a short safety briefing, along with a video featuring current info about each winery’s offerings, tasting charges, and opening hours. This upfront info is a real plus because it helps you plan your route and avoid surprises.
Once your bikes are ready, you’ll try out the seats and gear up with high-vis helmets, baskets, and wine panniers that can hold four bottles comfortably. From there, it’s all about exploring at your own pace. The quiet roads and dedicated bike paths surrounding Renwick make for a safe, scenic ride, and you’ll find plenty of cellar doors within a 5- to 20-minute bike ride.
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What Makes This Tour Stand Out
The easy riding and flexibility are major highlights. Reviews highlight how the experience often exceeds expectations. Many mention how the 6-hour window flies by, especially once you’re out among the vineyards. One guest noted, “Initially I thought 6hrs was a little too long, but that wasn’t the case at all.” The ability to visit multiple wineries, nibble on cheese platters, and lounge in beanbags after cycling creates a truly relaxed day.
The wine selection is another clear draw. The various cellar doors offer a mix of large, well-known names and smaller, boutique wineries. Visitors often praise the quality of the tastings, with one reviewer calling their favorite tour in NZ. The team even offers guidance on which wineries are best suited for your preferences, whether you’re after expansive vineyards or more intimate tasting rooms.
According to many reviews, the staff at Lorelle & Greg’s are exceptional. They’re praised for their attentiveness, friendly manner, and knowledge sharing. They also provide emergency backup support, making you feel secure knowing help is just a phone call away if needed.
The Itinerary: What Does a Typical Day Look Like?
On arrival at the base, you’ll get to choose a bike that suits your riding style—whether you prefer a single, tandem, or trike. After a short safety briefing and watching the video, you’ll be fitted with your helmet and given a detailed map. The map pinpoints the 14 cellar doors nearby, many within a 5-10 minute bike ride, which makes planning your route straightforward.
Most cellar doors do not require pre-booking, so you can simply turn up when you arrive and enjoy a tasting session. That’s the beauty of this flexible system. The only wineries that do need reservations are Hans Herzog, Cloudy Bay, and Framingham Wines, which are a bit further out. The timing of your visits can be tailored—if you’re aiming for a visit to Cloudy Bay or Hans Herzog, it’s wise to pre-book a spot.
During your day, you might choose to start at the farthest winery, like Allan Scott, enjoying the ride through the countryside, then make your way back to the base. As one reviewer put it, “Cruising between wineries is a great way to slow things down and really enjoy the scenery.”
What About Food and Lunch?
Most cellar doors offer cheese and snack platters that you can order on the spot, no need to pre-book. If you want a more substantial lunch, several restaurants are within biking distance, but it’s best to reserve ahead, especially during busy periods. The recommended options include Vines Village Café and Allan Scott, both open 7 days a week. Be aware that some popular spots, like Wither Hills and Saint Clair’s, are too far for bike access unless you switch to a car.
The Cost and Value
At just $43.44 per person, plus the cost of tastings and food, this tour offers excellent value. The bike hire, detailed route planning, and support make it a very convenient package—especially considering the quality of wineries and the relaxed pace. The extra costs—tasting fees ($15-$30) and food—are on top, but many find these are worth it for a personalized and unhurried experience.
Guests consistently praise the value for money, especially since they can enjoy multiple tastings without the worry of driving. The flexible scheduling, combined with comfortable bikes and friendly staff, makes for a day that feels personalized without the hefty price tag of guided tours.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This is ideal for independent wine lovers who enjoy a bit of activity and want control over their itinerary. If you prefer guided groups, this might not be your best fit, but if you’re comfortable navigating on your own, you’ll find this a rewarding way to explore Marlborough. It’s also perfect for those who value comfort—thanks to the cruiser bikes—and appreciate local advice.
Travelers who enjoy relaxing in scenic settings, nibbling on cheese, and tasting wines at their leisure will find this experience ticks all the boxes. It’s a great choice for couples, groups of friends, or even solo travelers wanting flexibility with their day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need prior biking experience? While no advanced skills are required, you should be comfortable riding a bike, as the experience is self-guided. The bikes are cruisers designed for comfort, making it accessible for most.
Can I bring my own wine bottles back? Yes, the bikes come with wine panniers to hold four bottles, making it easy to transport your purchases. The team also offers a free wine collection service.
Is this suitable for children? The tour is designed for adult participants, given the focus on wine tasting and bicycle riding. It’s not specifically tailored for children or families, but older teenagers comfortable with cycling and alcohol rules could participate.
What if the weather is bad? The experience requires good weather; if it’s canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Are reservations required at wineries? Most cellar doors do not require booking, but some, like Hans Herzog and Cloudy Bay, do. It’s good to plan ahead if you have specific wineries in mind.
How long does the entire experience take? Expect around 6 hours, including cycling, tastings, and breaks. Many find this duration perfect for a leisurely day out.
What about lunch? You can order cheese platters at most cellar doors or visit nearby restaurants. It’s recommended to book lunch spots in advance if you plan to eat at specific venues.
Is pickup available? Yes, the shuttle service can pick you up from your accommodation within 15 km of Renwick, making it even easier to enjoy your day without worrying about driving.
What’s included in the price? The package covers the bikes, helmets, baskets, wine panniers, detailed maps, safety briefing, and backup support. Tasting fees and food are extra.
Self-Guided Wine Tours by Bike with Lorelle & Greg
“Really enjoyed our day on the bikes. Initially I thought 6hrs was a little too long, but that wasn't the case at all. Once we took the bikes back a…”
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a flexible, relaxed way to explore Marlborough’s vibrant wine scene, Lorelle & Greg’s Self-Guided Bike Tour offers tremendous value. The combination of comfortable bikes, friendly support, and the freedom to set your own pace makes this experience stand out. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a bit of independence, scenic cycling, and sampling a variety of wines in a beautiful rural setting.
While it’s not a guided tour, the detailed planning, support, and quality of the wineries ensure you won’t feel lost or rushed. Instead, you’ll enjoy a day that’s personal, leisurely, and delicious—ideal for travelers who value comfort and flexibility.
If you love the idea of cycling through vineyards, tasting wines, and lounging in scenic spots, this might just be your perfect Marlborough adventure. Just remember to plan your route, book ahead at the wineries if needed, and come with an appetite for wine and good company.
Enjoy your wine journey in Marlborough—cheers to a memorable, relaxed, and personalized experience!