Wed Mar 22
-the previous night I had done enough research and reading to conclude that we should rally and bike the Otago Rail Trail
. The Judges had spoken highly of it and it looked fun.
-the crew got up at a leisurely pace and our host checked in for payment and information. He confirmed that it would be a fun ride. I borrowed his phone and called the bike shop that was located near the prime part of the trail.
-the one way tour I was considering was not available due to a lack of a driver but the helpful store owner Steve thought that an out and back would be great for our family. It would take only 13kms each way to see the main sights of the rail tunnels and viaducts. He took our measurements and planned to have bikes ready
-it took us awhile to get organized and there was definite grumbling from the boys. But when we got to the bike shop, Steve redirected the boys with friendly Kiwi banter and jelly beans. In seconds the boys were zooming around on there rental bikes
-with sunscreen on and some supplies we peddled away. The trail was nice gravel and wide enough for two people to ride side by side. There was a bit of an incline but Laura and I did the most grumbling
-the scenery changed from rolling farm land to foothills with rocky outcropping
. It reminded me of the landscape near 101 and Monterey. It was pretty
-we made it to our first milestone about half way out and stopped at the Lauder Cafe. Finn was ready to eat so we ordered some yummy grub and met the local dog and cat. Everyone enjoyed themselves and the sunny weather
-the next 8kms or so brought the train tunnels and viaducts. Stunning and fun to ride through and over
-we turned around after the highest viaduct and cruised down hill through the tunnels. The vote was to stop again at the cafe to say hi to the animals. We had another nice meal and got to feed the goats and ourselves apples off the trees. Good times in rural NZ. These are th experiences we came here to share
-we were soon nearing our origin and I decided to ride an extra 12kms down to the next town. Steve had said that would work since his bike shuttle was coming by and could grab my bike. Sadly I was a little short on time and had to really rush and peddle hard to make the 4:30 deadline.
-sweaty and tired I made it to the Chattoo Tavern at 4:32
. Laura and he boys were there to pick me up. I later saw that the bike shuttle didn't swing by until almost 5:15 but oh well, I didn't want to be late and break my promise to Steve who was sort of doing me a favor
-we backtracked uphill to drive through the "cute as a button" town of Ophir. It was ok but we were glad that we had put a minimal effort in to see it. There was a cool bridge there though
-we stopped on our way home for Indian and groceries. Once again it had gotten kind of late but we were glad to be home n put food in our bellies n then head to bed. It had been a good day and we had overcome the protestations of the kids
Biking the Otago Rail Trail
Tuesday, March 21, 2017
Cromwell, South Island, New Zealand
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2025-02-13