We recently got back from one of the best trips we’ve taken in New Zealand, as a middle-aged couple. And if you’re looking for a unique, active getaway to enjoy as a couple, this trip may be for you!
We were away for an action-packed 5 days – with one part cycling and the other part hiking (and lots of time to relax too).
One of the best trips to do in New Zealand as a middle-aged couple
First up: when looking for hikes or cycle trails to do, acknowledge your fitness levels and capabilities and plan accordingly. It’s no fun feeling anxious that you won’t be able to complete an activity. Or be too exhausted to enjoy yourself. Vacations are supposed to be fun, not stress-inducing! But having said that, don’t shy away from doing rides or hikes because you feel you may not be able to do them. Remember that it’s not a race and going at your own pace will ensure that you achieve your goals while having a good time. And that feeling of achievement can’t be beaten.
With this in mind, we chose to do the Dunstan Trail ride (Grade 1-3 – easy, intermediate) and a couple of hikes that call for medium to high fitness levels. Of course, the uphill sections are always the toughest (and the downhills can also be a challenge), but again, if you pace yourself, it’s achievable. Also, we opted for e-bikes in our 2-day cycle package which certainly made the hills more enjoyable.
Day One – Making our way to Cromwell
Coming from Auckland, we flew into Queenstown and then kicked off our trip by heading to Cromwell. We eased into things by stopping for a leisurely lunch at Akarua Wines and Kitchen By Artisan on the way to our accommodation for the first night. And I’d recommend this relaxed approach if you have the time.
Day Two – The Dunstan Trail: Cromwell to Clyde cycle (42kms)
The next morning we headed off to the Cromwell Heritage Precinct where we hired our bikes (with all the gear) from Cromwell Heritage Precinct Bike Rentals – and can highly recommend this fabulous company. Their bikes are custom-made and incredibly comfortable. We also opted to use their pannier bags to carry our sandwiches, jackets and a repair kit.
When we arrived at their location on the lake, we loaded our suitcases into the company van and were kitted up and given a quick guide to the bikes and the route. And then we were off! (With complete peace of mind that when we got to Clyde, our bags would be in our hotel rooms waiting for us.)
The Dunstan Trail
The Dunstan Trail is mostly flat, but there are two big climbs on the track. Of course, if you’re on an e-bike, it’s relatively easy-going. But you do have to focus, especially where the track becomes narrow and there are some pretty steep drop-offs!
But don’t be put off because you can go at whatever pace you like. And you’ll be treated to the most scenic views all along the way. You can even stop for a coffee, a burger or some Belgian waffles at the Coffee boat around the halfway point!
When we got to Clyde, we decided we still had enough energy (and battery life) to ride on to Alexandra. We chose to ride along the river track, glimpsing the emerald waters of the Clutha River as we went. It’s another 25km round trip, but I would highly recommend it because it’s very picturesque.
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Our accommodation in Clyde
That night we stayed at The Lord Clyde luxury accommodation in the heritage area of Clyde – and I can highly recommend this beautiful hotel. Our room was pretty and practical and the en-suite bathroom was enormous, offering both a shower and a bath. And boy, that bath was very welcome after spending 67kms in the saddle!
Where we ate
That night we had a seriously delicious dinner at Olivers Restaurant and Bar which is within a 2-minute walk from our accommodation.
Related: 10 of the best things to do in Auckland with older visitors
Day Three – Clyde to Cromwell cycle (42kms)
Knowing the route and what to expect, we planned our day so that we could stop off for a meal at Carrick Winery and Restaurant towards the end of the trail. (We’d been impressed with the look of the place on our ride out the previous day.) So with these plans in mind, we only stopped for a quick coffee break at the Coffee Boat this time.
Day Four – Arrowtown
And then we dropped our bikes off and waved goodbye to Cromwell and our ‘cycling friends’, heading off to Arrowtown to meet up with our ‘walking friends’. Autumn is a fantastic time to visit this area because there are plenty of autumnal colours to be seen on the hills around this quaint town at this time of year.
We chose to hike the Sawpit Gully Trail as it suited our timing and fitness levels. (It’s a 2-3 hour loop, 8km for medium-high fitness.) And again we were afforded the most beautiful views in that mountainous area. This track features open hills, a waterfall, stream-hopping and walking under the shade of some trees. You access the track from the main car park area in town.
Feeling like we’d earned our lunch, we made our way to The Fork and Tap where we devoured a good-sized grilled halloumi salad and a big bowl of shoestring fries.
Then we slowly made our way to Queenstown where we checked in and got ready for dinner at another fabulous restaurant, Jervois Steakhouse. Despite being best known for its quality meat, I can highly recommend the burrata there too.
Day Five – Queenstown
And our last morning was spent walking around Moke Lake, just a short drive from Queenstown. It’s a 2.5hr loop around a lake surrounded by some beautiful terrain. I took about a hundred photos of the reflections on the water and couldn’t stop oohing and aahing at the scenery. Tucked away, this pocket of beauty makes you feel as if you’re miles from the buzz of Queenstown and yet it’s so close. I would highly recommend this walk.
And then we headed to the airport for our flight back to Auckland. Five days away was just enough time to replenish the soul.
Reading this post, you may think that it was all – go, go, go – but we definitely had enough downtime to relax with our friends.
Conclusion
I’m a big fan of reading on a tropical beach, but there’s something to be said for a holiday which involves breaking a sweat while cycling up a hill, and fully immersing yourself in nature. There’s a real sense of accomplishment and wonder. And the relaxation times seem that much sweeter.
How about you? Do you prefer relaxing holidays or action-packed adventures?
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