Mountain Biking
Cyclists on the Alps2Ocean in front of Lakestone Lodge
Alps2Ocean 300km cycleway from Mt Cook Village to Oamaru: The trail runs directly infront of Lakestone Lodge
With summer just around the corner it’s time to get back to nature and what better way to do it than on a bike. The Alps 2 Ocean (A2O) cycle trail is a great ride that runs from Mt Cook Village (or an alternative start from Lake Tekapo) to the Pacific Ocean 300km later at Oamaru. It is this stunning trail that actually brought the Bacchus family to the Mackenzie Basin. We love cycling, cycle touring and being in the outdoors and when looking for a location to build Lakestone Lodge the only requirement was that the land bordered the cycle trail... we got extremely lucky with the land that we got as it has a whole lot more than just the cycle trail at our doorstep.
The Alps2Ocean around Lake Pukaki
Words can hardly describe the beauty of Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, the scenery is so varied over the 300km it is awe inspiring. Starting amongst the biggest mountains in New Zealand then around the edge of Lake Pukaki and along hydro canals and the section around the base of Lake Ohau is another favourite part. From there it does go up and over a hill which opens up to a rolling downhill and you coast into Omarama and you can unwind and enjoy the hot tubs there. Then it keeps following the water towards the ocean and past a couple more hydro lakes and associated power stations then through vineyards, karst limestone country and rolling green farmland to the Steampunk capital of the world, Oamaru.
The first time I completed the Alps 2 Ocean ride I didn’t quite make it to the end and stopped about 200m short of the finish because just before the end was a large sign “Brewery” for the legendary Scotts Brewery which was too hard to pass.
Although it can be done by almost anybody that does some cycling, to do the full length is no walk in the park. The trail has its challenges and the weather can either work with you or against you. We do get strong winds here at times. It is great to have a supported tour and I highly recommend electric assisted bikes to keep things even between bike fit riders and people who haven’t done as much biking lately. They make it much more enjoyable for the whole party completing the trail.
Luckily Lakestone Lodge is perfectly positioned on one of the most stunning sections of the whole trail which makes for great short 1-2 hour rides on our complimentary bikes or do a full day ride while you are here. We can help sort transfers and bike rentals.
In the region there is also other great mountain biking like the Dusky Trail which is more for the adventurous mountain biker as it has steep single track and river crossings. A local multi sport event the Twizel Hard Labour Weekend that Lakestone Lodge supports uses the Dusky Trail for part of the mountain biking section.8
The Twizel Hard Labour Weekend multisport event is on Labour Weekend every year. This Year 20th and 21st Oct 2018. https://www.twizelhardlabour.org.nz/
Alps2Ocean Cycle Trail www.alps2ocean.com/
What our other guests had to say
Excellent dinner date at this exceptional lodge, panoramic views over Lake Pukaki and Aoraki Mt Cook. Our meal was Michelin Star standard and served by lovely locals. Ideal location for a romantic weekend or overnight stay. Couldn't fault our experience. The food certainly was a very...
Highlander65
We had the most amazing experience at Lakestone Lodge. We can’t find fault with anything! We highly rate the food, service, hospitality, comfort and attention to detail! We are truly lucky to have had the chance to stay here!
Nalini G
A group of tired cyclists arrive wet and cold. We are met by a very charming host, Mike, and shown to our lovely rooms, with beautiful views over turquoise Lake Pukaki. A rabbit runs by, pursued by a cat. There is tea and coffee, cupcakes, biscotti and fruit. Cocktails in the lounge are followed...
AucklandTraveller, Christchurch, New Zealand
We stayed for two nights at Lakestone Lodge on the Cosy Couples package. The location is stunning, room very comfortable with incredible views, the food was outstanding and the massage was one of the best I've ever had. Even though our stay was only for two nights, we felt the stresses of...
Debbie - NZ
A stay at Lakestone Lodge was our reward for the grind of 2020. The accommodation and food were superb, and the hosts were friendly, attentive and well informed. The star of the show is the location – the lodge discreetly tucked away on a ridge above the road, away from other travellers...
David G
A few days ago we treated ourselves to 2 nights at this luxurious little lodge (it only has 6 guest rooms) We chose it as a relaxing base from which we could access sections of the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail & various walks. The location is stunning and the food, thoughtfully prepared by Chef,...
Sally A, Wanaka, New Zealand
This small lodge has excellent and very helpful staff. the rooms are good and the food is excellent. However the crowning glory for my wife and I was the magnificent view along the lake with Aoraki Mount Cook central to the view surrounded by other snow covered mountains in the Southern Alps.
Peterm2014123, Auckland Central, New Zealand
We had an incredible stay at Lakestone Lodge for our elopement in October! We were blown away by the thoughtful touches and attention to detail throughout our entire stay. Stunning rooms and views! Delicious food! We couldn't have asked for a better location and experience. Thank you so...
eprankin