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This 23km off-road cycling loop around Nelson combines scenic coastal views with stops at local breweries. Enjoy a beer tasting paddle and watch brewing in action on a relaxed tour with The Gentle Cycling Company.
This 23km off-road cycling loop around Nelson combines scenic coastal views with stops at local breweries. Enjoy a beer tasting paddle and watch brewing in action on a relaxed tour with The Gentle Cycling Company.
Book with The Gentle Cycling Company
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by The Gentle Cycling Company · Nelson, Nelson Region
Located in Tāhunanui near Nelson, New Zealand, The Gentle Cycling Company offers a unique way to experience the region’s vibrant craft beer scene combined with its stunning coastal landscapes. Their Great Taste Beer Tour (Loop) is a carefully crafted 23-kilometer off-road cycling route designed for riders seeking a laid-back yet flavorful adventure through some of Nelson’s most beloved breweries and pubs.
Starting from 70 Beach Road, participants pedal along a mostly flat circuit that includes a blend of coastal views and a stretch on the local rail trail. This route winds through varied terrain defined by rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and patches of native bush unique to Nelson’s maritime climate. Nelson is famed for its sunshine hours and a burgeoning number of craft breweries, making it a standout destination for both outdoor enthusiasts and beer lovers alike.
What sets this trip apart is the perfect balance between cycling and local hospitality. Riders enjoy stops at welcoming coastal country pubs, historic taprooms, and breweries where they get to sample a beer tasting paddle at McCashin’s Brewery. Watching the brewing process in action while savoring fresh local flavors offers a genuine connection to the region’s craft beer culture.
The Gentle Cycling Company’s approach emphasizes accessibility and enjoyment, making this tour attractive to couples, families, and groups of friends with varying cycling experience. Door-to-door transport and quality bikes are provided, allowing visitors to focus on riding and tasting without logistical concerns.
Nelson’s outdoor recreation is typically defined by its combination of accessible trails and natural beauty, and this tour integrates those elements with social and culinary highlights, making it a multifaceted experience. For travelers who want an authentic taste of Nelson’s landscape and beer, this cycling loop delivers memorable views, relaxed pace, and a true feel for local life beyond the typical tourist path.
easy.
6–7 hours.
Suitable for casual cyclists with moderate fitness; mostly flat terrain
Yes, the route is mostly flat and designed for casual cyclists, making it accessible to beginners with basic bike handling skills.
Yes, The Gentle Cycling Company supplies well-maintained bikes and safety helmets for all participants.
Bring sun protection, a reusable water bottle, and clothes comfortable for cycling and brewery visits.
Absolutely—this tour is ideal for families, couples, and groups of friends looking for a relaxed, fun outdoor experience.
Yes, door-to-door transport is included, so you can focus on enjoying the ride and tastings.
While the focus is on beer tastings, some pubs and breweries do offer food; it's advisable to check ahead or bring snacks.
Nelson is one of New Zealand’s earliest settled regions with a rich brewing tradition dating back over a century, reflected in its pubs and breweries.
Cycling tours like this support sustainable tourism by minimizing environmental impact and promoting appreciation for local ecosystems and craft industries.
The Gentle Cycling Company is a Nelson, Nelson based operator offering bike hire, shuttle services and a range of cycling experiences across the Nelson region. The company provides multiple bike hire durations, including 3‑hour, half‑day (4 hours), 6‑hour, full‑day, two‑day, three‑day and five‑day rentals. Riders can choose standard bicycles or electric bikes (e‑bikes); e‑bikes make hills easier and extend possible riding distances. Shuttle services include the Nelson Airport Shuttle, which carries up to 10 people and their bikes or luggage into Nelson or Richmond, and Coastal Shuttle options that transport groups up to 20 people to destinations such as Mapua, Motueka or Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park. Available trips and experiences listed include the Rameka Track Shuttle, Mapua Shuttle with a ferry to Mapua and Rabbit Island access, Kaiteriteri bike hire options, Spooner's Tunnel Tour, Great Taste Wine and Beer tours (Gold, Silver, Bronze), Paddle & Pedal Combo, Rabbit Island Picnic Tour, Great Taste Goose Chase, Mapua Cycle & Shuttle and a variety of independent multi‑day bike hire packages. The Gentle Cycling Company offers transport of bikes and luggage and can customize shuttle pickups or group arrangements on request. Trip names and summaries reflect the experiences offered; prospective customers should contact the operator directly for current availability, group requirements and booking details.
Book with The Gentle Cycling Company