Bike & Wine Tour: Arrowtown to Valley of the Vines

Thinking about exploring Queenstown’s beautiful wine region but want a mix of activity and relaxation? This Bike & Wine Tour from Arrowtown to Gibbston offers a chance to cycle through stunning scenery, learn about local history, and sample some top wines without the stress of organizing everything yourself. With a solid 5-star rating and hundreds of happy reviews, it’s clear this experience hits the right notes for many travelers.

What we really love about this tour is the flexibility—you can go at your own pace, stopping whenever something catches your eye or you want to snap a photo. Plus, the included shuttle service makes it easy to start and end your day without worrying about transport logistics. The bikes are high quality, and the option to upgrade to an e-bike means most people can handle the hilly sections comfortably. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the tour involves quite a bit of active biking—so it’s not necessarily suited to everyone, especially if you’re less confident on bikes or not prepared for some gravel and hills.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who love scenic rides, enjoy a relaxed pace, and want to experience Queenstown’s nearby wine country without the fuss of self-organizing multiple logistics. If you’re after a day combining gentle exercise with premium wine tastings and historic charm, you’ll likely find this tour ticks all those boxes.

Key Points

• Self-guided freedom: You set your own pace while cycling through beautiful landscapes.
• Convenient shuttle: Pick-up and drop-off from Queenstown makes logistics simple.
• All gear included: Helmets, locks, maps, and repair kits are provided—just bring your legs!
• Upgraded options: E-bikes are highly recommended for most riders, especially on hilly sections.
• Wine tastings at top vineyards: Stops include Gibbston Valley, Rockburn, Kinross, and Mount Rosa.
• Ideal for active relaxeders: Perfect if you want exercise but not an overly strenuous experience.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Logistics

Your day begins at 43 Camp Street in Queenstown, where you meet around 10:00 am for a friendly check-in. The tour is operated by Going Blue Queenstown, a well-regarded company with a reputation for friendly, knowledgeable staff. Once there, you’ll get a quick safety briefing, a detailed map of your route, and your bike—either a standard or upgraded e-bike.

The shuttle then whisks you away to Arrowtown, a charming gold rush town filled with historic buildings, quaint shops, and cozy cafes. The 20-minute ride is smooth and offers some initial scenic glimpses of the surrounding mountains and river.

Arrowtown’s Heritage and First Pedals

In Arrowtown, you’re free to explore briefly before setting off on your bike. The town’s gold rush history adds a layer of interest, and if you’re a history buff or someone who enjoys picturesque streets, it’s worth taking a moment here. The initial ride from Arrowtown takes you along rivers and bridges, with plenty of opportunities to admire the landscape’s quiet beauty.

Cycle Through the Valley of the Vines

Once on your bike, you’ll head toward Gibbston, known as the “Valley of the Vines.” The route offers a mix of gentle slopes and gravel paths, largely on well-maintained trails. Many reviews highlight how the e-bikes make inclines manageable, which is a real plus for most riders. One reviewer noted, “The e-bikes were a dream to ride and made the inclines very manageable,” reinforcing how accessible the ride is with minimal effort.

Expect to pass suspension bridges, flowing rivers, and lush vineyards. The ride is approximately 10 km but feels longer because of the beautiful scenery and the leisurely pace you can set. Some reviews mentioned that the whole trail is beautifully marked and easy to navigate, making it suitable for those who prefer to go at their own speed.

Winery Stops and Tastings

The tour includes several vineyard stops; however, tastings and food are not included in the base price and are available at an extra cost—roughly NZD $20-$25 per stop. This gives you flexibility: you can indulge in tastings, enjoy a meal, or simply take in the sights with a glass of wine in hand.

Vineyard options include Gibbston Valley (which offers a wine cave tour with three tastings), Rockburn, Kinross (where food platters can be purchased), and Mount Rosa. Several reviews raved about the quality of the wines and the friendly staff at each venue. One guest said, “The wineries were super friendly and well set up,” and another compared the pizza at Kinross to being ‘terrific,’ which hints at a relaxed, welcoming vibe.

Highlights Along the Route

During the ride, you’ll cross suspension bridges and cycle along riverbanks, all with the backdrop of the mountains. Reviewers often mention how the scenery is stunning, with some calling it “a beautiful ride with fantastic views.” The combination of open trails, alpine scenery, and peaceful vineyards makes the experience feel like a perfect blend of activity and leisure.

Returning to Queenstown

Your day wraps up with a 4:00 pm pickup from the vineyards, arriving back in Queenstown around 5:00 pm. The whole experience lasts about 7 hours, which is ample time for cycling, wine stops, and even a bit of wandering in Arrowtown if you wish.

What the Reviews Say

Many guests highlight the friendly nature of the staff and the quality of the bikes. For example, a reviewer noted, “The staff was very friendly and helpful, and the bikes were all high quality,” while others appreciated the flexibility: “We loved being able to go at our own pace and take in the incredible views.”

Others pointed out that the e-bikes are a game-changer, allowing most to enjoy the ride without fatigue. A reviewer mentioned, “Getting the transportation made visiting the vineyards convenient,” emphasizing how this tour takes the hassle out of planning separate transport.

Possible Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, some mention that the bike trail is mostly gravel and hilly, meaning it’s more suited to those comfortable on mountain bikes or e-bikes. A user said, “It was not an easy ride,” especially without e-bikes, which underscores the importance of choosing the right bike type. Plus, the duration is quite active—expect about 10+ miles of riding before reaching the wine stops—so bring water and be prepared for physical activity.

Another consideration: food and tastings are extra, so if you’re after a full wine and food experience, budget accordingly. Also, the tour isn’t a guided winery visit; instead, you’re exploring independently after the initial orientation, which appeals more to self-sufficient travelers.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who enjoy scenic cycling and want a flexible, self-paced day. It suits those comfortable on bikes, especially if you opt for an e-bike. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who appreciates good wine and beautiful landscapes, this gives you a balance of adventure and relaxation.

It’s less ideal for absolute beginners or anyone looking for a guided winery tour. Still, for most people with a basic level of fitness who enjoy being outdoors, it’s a fantastic way to see some of Queenstown’s best scenery and wine.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for a day of gentle activity, stunning scenery, and quality wines, the Arrowtown to Gibbston bike and wine tour is a top pick. The self-guided nature means you can tailor your pace, spending more time at the vineyards or lingering in Arrowtown, making it a flexible option. The inclusion of high-quality bikes and a convenient shuttle service reduces the hassle, giving you more time to focus on enjoying the views and sampling wines.

The route’s mix of river crossings, mountain vistas, and vineyard vistas offers a memorable experience that balances energy and relaxation. The added bonus of knowledgeable staff and well-marked trails makes it accessible and enjoyable for most riders.

This tour shines brightest for active travelers seeking a full day out with a personal touch—whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just love exploring by bike. While not a guided tour of wineries, it provides the perfect framework for a day of scenic riding, delicious wine tastings, and discovering Queenstown’s nearby charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While the trail is well-marked and generally manageable, it involves gravel paths and some hills. E-bikes are highly recommended for most riders, especially those less experienced or concerned about hills.

How long is the cycling portion?
The main cycling stretches about 10 km on scenic trails. The total ride can be over 10 miles, with some reviews mentioning up to 28 miles if combining different routes.

Are wine tastings included?
No, tastings are extra, costing around NZD $20-$25 per stop. You can choose which vineyards to visit and whether to indulge.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps snacks. All bike gear is provided, but you might want your camera or phone for photos.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I do this tour with children?
The tour is geared more towards adults and active travelers. Children over 150cm can ride e-bikes, but the active nature might be less suitable for very young kids.

This self-guided bike and wine experience offers a well-rounded taste of Queenstown’s natural beauty and fine wines, all at a relaxed pace. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking to enjoy a scenic day out, it’s worth considering as part of your Queenstown adventure.