Cromwell: Kawarau Gorge Self-Guided eBike & Winery Day Out

Central Otago, Queenstown



Explore the Kawarau Gorge Trail by eBike with return shuttle from Cromwell. Enjoy the backcountry landscape as the trail winds beside the Kawarau River. Relax at a stunning winery to top off the day.

Experience the Kawarau Gorge Great Ride eBike tour from Cromwell to Bannockburn and Gibbston, ideal for confident cyclists with moderate fitness.

This self-guided eBike tour covers 39km along the Kawarau Gorge Trail, beginning with a shuttle from Cromwell to Gibbston. The route follows the Kawarau River, passing historic gold mining sites and dramatic backcountry landscapes.

The trail connects Queenstown’s Gibbston area to Central Otago’s Bannockburn, featuring engineered paths that weave naturally through steep cliffs and river gorges. Riders cross two suspension bridges spanning the Kawarau River and can visit the Goldfields Mining Centre (entry not included) to learn about the region’s gold rush history.

The day concludes at Carrick Cellar Door & Winery with a wine tasting flight and pizza lunch included on the winery option. From there, the ride continues along the Lake Dunstan Trail toward Cromwell's Heritage Precinct and the Kiwi Journeys depot.

Highlights

  • Ride the Kawarau Gorge Great Ride from Cromwell on a Premium eBike
  • Explore gold mining relics and river valley scenery
  • Cross two suspension bridges above the Kawarau River
  • Enjoy a wine tasting flight and pizza lunch at Carrick Cellar Door (winery option)
  • Shuttle service from Cromwell to Gibbston included
  • All essential riding equipment provided

Includes

  • Premium eBike hire from a Qualmark Gold endorsed operator
  • Bike light, helmet, repair kit, pannier bags, and odometer
  • Shuttle from Cromwell to Gibbston to start the trail
  • Trail map
  • Wine tasting flight and pizza lunch at Carrick Cellar Door if winery option chosen
  • Trail support and bike accidental damage insurance

Excludes

  • Entry fee to Goldfields Mining Centre
  • Winery lunch if the winery option is not selected

Important Information

  • The trail is 32km of largely unsupported backcountry riding; prior biking experience and good fitness are essential
  • Not suitable for children under 10 years
  • Wine tasting is available only to guests over 18 with the winery option
  • The trail includes Grade 3 sections that are steep, exposed, and narrow
  • Shuttle departs Cromwell at 8:30am

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To prepare for the ride, wear sturdy cycling shoes and bring sun protection, water, and a camera. Book early to secure your preferred date, especially during peak season.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is a 39km self-guided eBike ride from Gibbston to Cromwell along the Kawarau Gorge, including wine tasting and lunch at Carrick Winery near Queenstown.
The tour starts with a shuttle from Cromwell to Gibbston and finishes with an eBike ride back to Cromwell through Kawarau Gorge.
The ride is suited for confident cyclists and involves varied terrain along the 39km Kawarau Gorge Trail near Queenstown.
All essential eBikes and safety equipment are provided for the Kawarau Gorge ride from Gibbston to Cromwell.
Yes, the tour includes a wine tasting flight and a pizza lunch at Carrick Winery & Cellar Door near Queenstown.
The eBike ride along the Kawarau Gorge is self-guided, allowing riders to experience the trail at their own pace.
Cyclists pass historic gold mining relics and enjoy views of the Kawarau River and surrounding Queenstown backcountry.
No, the tour is recommended for confident cyclists due to the distance and varied terrain near Queenstown.
A shuttle transfers participants from Cromwell to Gibbston at the start of the tour.
Yes, check the official website for up-to-date hours and availability of the eBike and winery experience near Queenstown.

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