Is cycling experience required to join the tour?

No advanced skills are necessary; the route is mostly flat and suitable for casual riders.

Are helmets provided?

Yes, helmets are included, but guests are welcome to bring their own for comfort and fit.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The company monitors conditions closely and will work with you to reschedule or offer alternatives if necessary.

Are the beer tastings included in the price?

Yes, two brewery tastings are included along the tour.

Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Please inform the company in advance, and they will try to accommodate any special requests.

Is transportation provided after the tour?

Yes, bike collection and ride home from the final stop are included to ensure a safe finish.

Cycling Beer Tour with The Gentle Cycling Company in Nelson

Located in Tāhunanui, just a short ride from downtown Nelson, The Gentle Cycling Company's Great Taste Beer Tour offers a distinct way to discover the rich brewing culture of New Zealand’s South Island. This 30km flat, off-road route invites riders to pedal through a blend of urban charm and verdant outskirts, punctuated by stops at some of Nelson’s most dynamic craft breweries.

Nelson Region, often celebrated for its sunshine and fertile lands, provides an ideal backdrop for cycling enthusiasts and beer aficionados alike. The tour’s thoughtfully crafted loop begins near 70 Beach Road, Tāhunanui, following scenic bike trails that cross rivers and skirt native bush patches, where birdsong fills the air. Riders gain a close look at working microbreweries where hops and barley—key ingredients in New Zealand’s beer tradition—play a starring role.

What sets this tour apart is the mix of authentic brewery visits combined with smooth cycling on well-maintained off-road paths that suit riders of various skill levels. First, participants enjoy a tasting paddle at a local hop-focused brewery nestled within the outskirts, offering unique blends and freshly crafted flavors. Then the ride continues toward Nelson’s urban core to sample beers at an iconic pub renowned for its extensive craft beer lineup from around the country.

The Gentle Cycling Company ensures a worry-free experience by handling all logistics, including bike collection and return transport, so riders can relax and savor the journey. This combination of active travel and immersive local culture makes the Great Taste Beer Tour a standout offering in Nelson’s outdoor recreation scene. It complements the region’s adventurous spirit with a refreshing, social twist—appealing to those who want to balance scenic cycling with a celebrated taste of New Zealand’s craft beer heritage.