Walter Peak Guided Cycling Operation - Spring Launch
Real Journeys is gearing up for the spring launch of its new Walter Peak Guided Cycling excursion.
For the first time, cyclists will have the chance to explore the spectacular tussock clad back-country between Walter Peak High Country Farm on the western shores of Lake Wakatipu and the Mavora Lakes - with an experienced guide.
Traversing the Back Road beside Lake Wakatipu and through the Von Valley will provide cyclists with spectacular views - highlights being snow covered Mount Earnslaw at the head of Lake Wakatipu and the wide open expanse of McKellar Flats.
The personalised cycle tour is designed to cater for different riding abilities. Moderate fitness is required and group members have the option of cycling between 15 and 35kms of the Back Road as it meanders through beech forest and gently rolling terrain.
A van and cycle trailer escorting the group means cyclists can choose how much of the route they want to bike with the option of hopping into the van at various points along the way.
There is also a non - cycling option for anyone keen to explore the remote back country location and enjoy the day out with family and friends, without having to bike themselves.
After being fitted with top quality bikes and helmets, the action packed day begins with a cruise on board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm. The cyclists are then transported to Mavora Lakes where the cycling adventure commences.
Throughout the day refreshments are provided. Stops are made at Pretty Hut, a traditional musterers hut for a delicious picnic lunch and at the heritage stone building Old Nic for afternoon tea.
While taking in the spectacular high country scenery there is also the chance to learn about sheep, cattle and deer high country farming as the Back Road winds its way through Mount Nicholas and Walter Peak High Country Stations.
On returning to Walter Peak, cyclists visit the historic Colonel’s Homestead and gardens (if there is time) before boarding the TSS Earnslaw for the return trip to Queenstown arriving at 5.30pm.
To accommodate the extra visitors to the area, three new toilets are being installed along the route.
Real Journeys General Manager of International Sales and Business Development, Tony McQuilkin, said although it is certainly off the beaten track, the road between Walter Peak and Mavora Lakes is extremely suitable for cycling.
“It is great country and we are very excited to be able to offer people a chance to get out there and explore an area which few people ever really get to enjoy,” he said.
This small group guided cycling tour is being launched in conjunction with partners, Around The Mountain Cycle Tours Ltd.
The tour will depart daily beginning on November 1 and run until 15 April.
Walter Peak Independent Cycling Option
In conjunction with the launch of the Walter Peak Guided Cycling excursion, a separate option is also being introduced which will enable cyclists to transport their own or hired bikes across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm on board the TSS Earnslaw and to explore the back country route independently.
With the Walter Peak Independent Cycling option, cyclists will be supplied with a map outlining distances and times and a snack voucher to be redeemed on board the TSS Earnslaw or at Walter Peak. The option allows flexibility and the chance to return to Queenstown on a later TSS Earnslaw crossing.
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For more information come and see us at TRENZ or make contact via phone or email:
Robyn Jebson
Real Journeys General Manager Marketing and National Sales
Real Journeys Booth # 2016
Mobile 027 222 5851
Tel +64 3 442 7509
rjebson@realjourneys.co.nz
or
Gabby Lake
Real Journeys Marketing Communications Co-ordinator
DDI +64 3 442 4830
glake@realjourneys.co.nz for more information or images attached to this release.
Real Journeys
Level 2, 74 Shotover Street
PO Box 94, Queenstown 9348,
New Zealand
Tel + 64 3 442 7509
marketing@realjourneys.co.nz
We would be happy to provide:
• A media kit
• CD Rom - Real Journeys Fiordland and Queenstown Image Library
• CD Rom - Stewart Island Image Library
• Media release related images are available on our website www.realjourneys.co.nz
• The TRENZ 2010 edition of Conservation Matters
