Nelson, New Zealand, is a top destination for biking enthusiasts. Its combination of lush forests, scenic coastlines, fertile farmland, and vibrant local food scene makes it a real cycling paradise. We’re especially fond of the guided quad biking tour through forest and farmland because it delivers a mix of adventure and stunning views with expert guidance. For those who prefer a more relaxed ride, the e-bike hire at Cable Bay Adventure Park offers flexibility and access to a variety of trails. And if you want to combine cycling with tastings at wineries and breweries, the Great Taste Trail to Mapua is a perfect day trip. Each of these options captures a different aspect of Nelson’s appeal—adventure, scenery, or food—and helps you tailor your perfect biking experience.
Quick Overview
This list covers a range of bike tours in Nelson: guided quad biking through forests and farmland, self-guided e-bike adventures along scenic trails, full-day coastal rides with wine and food stops, and a unique tunnel ride through vineyards and hop fields. Whether you’re after adrenaline, leisure, or culinary delights, there’s something here for every cyclist.
1. Nelson: Guided Quad Biking Tour Through Forest and Farmland
At number 1, this guided quad biking experience offers a fantastic way to explore Nelson’s natural landscape. The tour typically lasts between 1.5 and 2.5 hours and takes you through dense forests, across farmland, and up to the breathtaking coast of Cable Bay. The ride begins at Cable Bay Adventure Park, where your guide will give a safety briefing and teach you how to handle the quad bike. This experience is perfect if you want to combine thrill-seeking with scenic vistas.
What makes this tour stand out is the variety of landscapes you’ll encounter—riding through lush forests, then stopping for photos at panoramic viewpoints overlooking Cable Bay. The guide’s local knowledge makes it easy for even beginners to feel confident on the quad bike. With a 4.8/5 rating from over 100 reviews, many riders appreciate the professionalism and the fun of driving a quad in such a pristine environment. The views from the top of the mountain are particularly memorable, offering sweeping vistas of the coastline and surrounding farmland.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for travelers wanting an active, guided adventure that mixes forest, farmland, and coastal scenery with plenty of photo opportunities.
2. Cable Bay Adventure Park: E-bike hire
Number 2 on our list is a flexible option for those who prefer to set their own pace. Cable Bay Adventure Park offers e-bike rentals that allow you to explore the area’s 11 single-track trails and graded routes, including the scenic Bayview lookout. For around $56 per person, you get four hours of self-guided riding, perfect for a half-day or full-day adventure.
The trails are suitable for most skill levels, and the e-bikes make tackling hills easier, giving you more time to enjoy the stunning scenery. Riders rave about the thrill of conquering the local terrain—many mention the joy of riding on the well-maintained tracks with views out over the water. The highlight is the ride along rugged tracks that lead to beautiful vistas and quiet coves. You can customize your experience, stopping to admire the coastal wetlands, or just cruise along the wide trails.
Bottom Line: This is a great choice for independent riders looking to explore at their own pace, with the flexibility of multiple trail options and scenic stops.
3. Nelson: Great Taste Trail Coastal Bike Ride to Mapua
Number 3 is a 8-hour guided or self-guided ride along the popular Great Taste Trail. Starting at Tahuna Beach Holiday Park, this ride takes you 26 km one way from Nelson to Mapua, passing coastal wetlands, Rabbit Island, and several local wineries and breweries. The highlight is crossing from Rabbit Island on a cycle ferry—an experience in itself—and then exploring artisan food spots and art glass studios.
The tour is perfect for those who enjoy a leisurely pace, scenic views, and a little food and drink. The trail is flat and graded for easy riding, making it accessible for most cyclists. Many riders enjoy stopping at local wineries, sampling cheese, or watching glassblowers at work. The itinerary includes visits to art studios and tasting sessions, making it a full sensory experience. The ride is praised for its stunning coastal views and relaxed atmosphere, with reviews noting the smooth ferry crossing and the variety of local stops.
Bottom Line: Ideal for food and wine lovers who want a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of stops, suitable for most fitness levels.
4. Tasman’s Great Taste Trail: Spooner’s Tunnel to Tāhunanui
Finally, the Spooner’s Tunnel to Tāhunanui ride is a full-day adventure that combines cycling through vineyards, hop gardens, and a historic rail tunnel. Starting at Tahuna Beach Holiday Park, you will first take a 50-minute van transfer to Spooners Tunnel, where you’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour self-guided ride through the longest disused rail tunnel in New Zealand—a real highlight for fans of history and engineering.
The route then continues through vineyards and hop farms, with optional stops for cheese tasting, craft beer, and exploring local markets. The tour’s unique feature is the tunnel itself, which offers a cool, slightly spooky experience that’s fun for all ages. The itinerary is packed with scenic views, local food tastings, and plenty of photo opportunities. Reviewers appreciate the well-organized logistics and the variety of experiences packed into one day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers who want a full-day, diverse cycling experience that combines history, local flavors, and scenic farmland.
How to Choose Your Ideal Bike Tour in Nelson
When deciding among these options, consider your fitness level, interests, and available time. If you’re after a quick, adrenaline-filled adventure, the guided quad bike tour offers a fun, guided experience through forests and coast. For a more relaxed, independent exploration, the e-bike rental at Cable Bay is perfect—especially if you want to tailor your day. Foodies and wine lovers should look at the coastal trail ride to Mapua, which combines scenery with tasting stops. Those seeking a full-day journey that mixes history and agriculture may prefer the Spooner’s Tunnel route.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred times and gear. Think about whether you want guided support or the flexibility of self-guided riding, and pick the option that best matches your adventure style.
To sum it up, Nelson offers a wonderful variety of bike tours that cater to all kinds of riders. Whether you want the thrill of quad biking, the freedom of e-biking, or a day of scenic food and wine stops, there’s a perfect ride waiting for you. For a mix of adventure, scenery, and local flavor, these tours are a great way to see the best of Nelson’s landscapes and local culture. Remember to book early, especially if visiting during the busy summer months, and prepare to enjoy some of New Zealand’s best cycling experiences.