The Full Day Bike the Wineries Ride is one of the most popular and scenic ways to experience Queenstown’s world-renowned wine country. Combining historic Arrowtown, breathtaking river trails, and the stunning Gibbston Valley, this self-guided ride gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace –  with wine, food, and views around every corner.

What to Expect

Your adventure begins at Around The Basin’s shop in Queenstown, where you’ll check in and board a 25-minute shuttle to Arrowtown. Once there, we’ll set you up with:

• A quality mountain bike or E-bike
• Helmet and winery trail map
• A full briefing with local tips and recommendations

Start your day with a coffee or short wander through Arrowtown’s historic streets, or hop straight onto the trail and begin riding.

From Arrowtown, follow the Arrow River downstream, crossing two stunning suspension bridges before reaching the Kawarau Suspension Bridge –  the birthplace of bungy jumping. From this iconic spot, the trail flows gently into the Gibbston wine region, known as the Valley of the Vines.

This is suitable for most fitness levels, with wide, gravel trails and undulations, expect some hills on this ride.

No need to ride back –  we’ll collect you from your final winery and return you to Queenstown.

Key Details

• Distance: 15–25 km, depending on how far into the valley you ride
• Trail Surface: Compact Gravel, Undulating terrain
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate – E-bikes recommended for added comfort
• Age Suitability: Children must be 140 cm (4 ft 6”) to fit an E-bike
• Includes: Shuttle to/from Arrowtown and Gibbston, bike or E-bike hire, helmet, winery map, and trail briefing
• Tastings and food are not included in the package price
• Click here to find out how to book tastings!

Other Ride Options

During our summer season (September-April), Bike the Wineries is available in three formats:

• ¾ Day Ride – Starts later than the Full Day, with slightly less time at the wineries but still plenty of cycling and fun
• Half Day Ride (Summer Only) – Offers the latest start, perfect for those who want a relaxed afternoon ride

Seasonal Times

Summer (September–April)

• Check-in: 9:20 am
• Shuttle departs: 9:30 am
• Return shuttle: 4:30 pm from your final winery
• Arrival back in Queenstown: Approx. 5:10 pm

• Check-in: 9:50 am
• Shuttle departs: 10:00 am
• Return shuttle: 4 pm from your final winery
• Arrival back in Queenstown: Approx. 4.45 pm

Wine Tastings & Booking Info

• Tastings are not included –  most wineries charge around $20 per person
• Wineries are independently owned, and tasting fees may vary
• Book in advance for tastings and lunch, especially for groups of 6 or more
• Once you’ve booked your ride, we can help you plan your timing and winery stops
• Click here to find out how to book tastings!
• NZ Drivers License or Passports will be needed as ID at the wineries

Why You’ll Love It

• Explore Arrowtown, historic trails, and Gibbston’s cellar doors in one seamless day
• Flexible schedule – spend more time riding or relaxing, it’s up to you
• No backtracking – return shuttle from your final winery
• Ideal for couples, groups, and wine lovers looking for a memorable experience in Queenstown

What If the Weather Turns?

The weather in Queenstown can shift quickly. We assess trail conditions on the day of your ride. If you’re unsure, give us a call 45 minutes to 1 hour before your shuttle departs, and we’ll review the forecast with you.

If the weather is unsafe for riding, we’ll do our best to reschedule, or provide a refund (minus a 3% transaction fee) if needed.

Final Tips

• Bring sunscreen, water, layers, and a bit of cash for tastings or food
• Most wineries open from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm
• Wine purchases can often be collected by the shuttle — just ask at the winery
• E-bikes are highly recommended – not just for ease, but to give you more energy to enjoy the day
•  Terms and Conditions here