The best cycling routes around Dunstan

The touring cycling routes in Dunstan offer a diverse landscape. You'll cycle along the shimmering waters of Lake Dunstan, through the dramatic Cromwell Gorge with its rugged cliffs and mountain views, and alongside sections of the Kawarau and Clutha Rivers. The area also features unique man-made structures like clip-on boardwalks, the Hugo suspension bridge, and areas reshaped by historical gold mining. You might even pass the 45th Parallel near Pisa Moorings.

Dunstan offers a range of touring cycling routes suitable for various abilities. Out of nearly 40 routes, 24 are graded as easy, 13 as moderate, and 2 as difficult. The main Lake Dunstan Trail is generally considered intermediate (Grade 2-3), making it accessible for those with a good fitness level, with e-bikes further enhancing accessibility.

Yes, many of Dunstan's cycling routes are suitable for families, especially with the availability of e-bikes to assist with intermediate sections. The region's generally low elevation gains on many routes, combined with scenic and safe paths, make it enjoyable for all ages. For example, the Eastern Trail and Old Orchard Beach Loop offers a pleasant ride through coastal areas and along a popular beach.

Beyond the stunning natural beauty, Dunstan's routes pass by several unique attractions. You can explore the charming heritage towns of Cromwell and Clyde, with Cromwell's Heritage Precinct offering boutique shops and cafes. The Bannockburn area is home to world-class wineries like Carrick Winery, often directly accessible from the trail. Don't miss the impressive Clyde Dam or the unique floating cafe and burger bar at Cairnmuir Gully for a memorable refreshment stop.

The duration varies depending on the route and your pace. The well-known Lake Dunstan Trail is 55 kilometers (or 41km from Cromwell Heritage Precinct) and can take a good portion of a day. Shorter routes like the Eastern Trail and Old Orchard Beach Loop, at 12.5 km, can be completed in under an hour, while longer ones such as the Portland Harbor – Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse loop from Scarborough, at 55.6 km, might take over three hours.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 23 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the well-maintained paths, and the accessibility of routes for various fitness levels. The combination of natural beauty and interesting points of interest along the way is frequently highlighted.

Yes, Dunstan offers several excellent circular routes that allow you to start and end in the same location. For example, the popular Bayley's Lobster Pound – Surfside Beach loop from Dunstan provides coastal views and local points of interest, while the Watson Mill Road via Buxton Road loop offers a pleasant ride through local roads with minimal elevation changes.

Cyclists can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Dunstan and the dramatic Cromwell Gorge. The routes also follow the Kawarau River and the mighty Clutha River/Mata-Au, offering scenic riverside stretches. The burnt-orange rocky surrounds of the Cairnmuir Mountains provide a stunning backdrop, and you'll encounter areas reshaped by historical gold mining activities, adding a unique historical dimension to the natural landscape.

Yes, Dunstan is a crucial hub within Central Otago's extensive network of 'Great Rides'. The Lake Dunstan Trail connects directly to the Otago Central Rail Trail at Clyde. It also provides access to the Roxburgh Gorge Trail and the Clutha Gold Trail via Alexandra, allowing for longer multi-day cycling adventures across the region.

The cycling routes in Dunstan pass through or near charming towns like Cromwell and Clyde, which offer a range of amenities including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation. The Cromwell Heritage Precinct is a great spot for refreshments, and the unique floating cafe at Cairnmuir Gully provides a memorable stop. The Bannockburn area also boasts world-class wineries with cellar doors and dining options directly accessible from the trail.

Beyond the cycling trails themselves, Dunstan offers several points of interest. You can visit the South Portland Greenbelt, explore the scenic Eastern Trail, or discover the tranquility of the Fore River Sanctuary. For beach lovers, Surfside Beach is a popular spot. These highlights offer diverse experiences from natural beauty to recreational areas.

Yes, the Dunstan area is well-equipped for touring cyclists. There are numerous options for bike hire, including e-bikes, which are popular for tackling some of the intermediate sections. Shuttle services are also readily available to transport cyclists and their bikes to various starting points or from end points, making multi-day trips or one-way rides more convenient.