Gravel Road cycling Just Beyond Nelson – Adventure Seats for All
If you’d asked me a couple of years ago which trips would become our most popular, I don’t think I could have predicted just how much people love exploring the hidden roads right on Nelson’s doorstep. There’s something magic about finding adventure so close to home – and it’s even better when you don’t have to wrangle logistics as a solo rider or small group. So here’s how our Scottish Express Monthly Specials have made it easier (and a whole lot more fun) to book a seat, bring a friend, or just jump in as an individual for a supported gravel adventure.
Where the Paper Roads Take Us
Nelson, New Zealand has long been a favourite place for all sorts of riding – from mountain bike trails that loop through the hills right behind the city, to lesser-known gravel roads that weave through the forests and valleys just beyond town. Here’s a fun local quirk: for decades, the Nelson and Tasman areas held some of the country’s largest pine plantations (about 360 square kilometres). The result? A fascinating network of old service roads – many of which have “paper road” status in New Zealand. (Paper roads are officially mapped public roads, sometimes running through what’s now private land, but with public access rights – a bit of legal magic that means these hidden tracks are open for you to explore.)
A special mention here for Herenga ā Nuku Aotearoa (the Outdoor Access Commission), who not only work to keep the outdoors accessible, but also share all the right-of-way info on a free online map. If you’re an access nerd like me, that’s pretty cool.
Still, with access comes responsibility. Many of these roads are still maintained by local landowners, and a quick friendly chat can smooth the way if you’re heading a little off the beaten track, they can also tell you if theirs any dangers ahead. In my experience, a little politeness (and perhaps a genuine smile at the back porch door) goes a long way.
Plotting the Perfect Gravel Road Weekend: Our Two-Day Gravel Adventure
In 2022, a few of us hatched a plan to make the most of all these amazing routes – but with added flexibility. We designed a two-day supported itinerary through Nelson Lakes and Murchison, letting riders choose their own adventure: different grades, different lengths, and even the option to piece together day-by-day routes. All you needed to do was book your seat. No minimum group size; just pick your adventure and come along.
The response? Our seats sold out super-fast. We ended up with a fantastic mixed crew – our youngest adventurer was 8, our oldest a spirited 80! Every kind of bike showed up, and plenty of different skill levels.
Day One: Backcountry Beauty and Barbecue
Our first day kicked off with what I reckon is the most scenic backcountry section of the region – the Baton Valley, a winding gravel road tracking the Baton River deep into the hinterland, past clinging farms and across a purpose-built cycling bridge. Pausing for a quick resupply in the small rural town of Tapawera (the sausages and cold drinks were destined for our Scottish Express chilly bins (coolers) and an afternoon barbecue!), we then swung back into the hidden heart of the region.
One of the day’s highlights? The Tadmor-Glenhope Dry Road, a true “backcountry” (remote/rural) ride, where the scenery shifts from wild scrubland to rolling farms. For our more adventurous riders, there were optional extra loops, from the Sherry River track to McIntyre Road. A bit of local homework (and sometimes getting forestry permission) opened up even more hidden corners to explore.
At the end of the day, all roads met back at Glenhope, where some folks happily cycled a few more kilometres to Lake Rotoroa, while others took our hop-on, hop-off shuttle service right to the barbecue spot – complete, of course, with looming mountains and the glittering lake as a backdrop. The only real hazard was the cloud of determined sandflies (those tiny but fierce local biting insects), but a bit of repellent and some extra clothing from the support van kept the itch at bay. (Top tip: Cover up and you’ll be fine, no matter which hemisphere you hail from.)
Most of our crew were tempted by the lakeside barbecue rather than extra distance, so after a good meal and some storytelling, we whisked everyone off to Murchison for a comfy bed and more good food.
Day Two: Over the gravel road to the Saddle, Down the Valley
Day Two started with an easy drive towards Maruia Saddle Road, a favorite gravel road stretch for both biking and four-wheeled adventuring. This gently undulating road climbs through native beech forest to a 580-metre (around 1,900 feet) saddle, then snakes down into the Matakitaki Valley – a chance to experience both rich farmland and old-growth forest.
While most chose a relaxed descent back towards Murchison, we always offer those with extra energy the choice to head further up the Glenroy Valley, or even push on for more kilometres with a later pick-up. There’s always flexibility – and with the support van, you’ve got options for drop-offs or extending the ride as needed.
The timing meant everyone had a chance to explore Murchison’s cafés and even browse some of my favourite local antique stores. (Amazing what you’ll find tucked away in small-town New Zealand!) Then it was back to Nelson, with custom drop-offs along the way, and plenty of tired grins all around.
Flexible, Friendly, and Open for Bookings
What I loved about running these seat-based adventures is the flexibility and welcome for everyone – whether you’re new to New Zealand gravel road riding, a solo traveller, or bringing your own small crew. With both individuals and groups able to book seats as they like, everyone gets to shape their ideal adventure – no negotiation required!
We’ve heard lots of requests for more of these supported trips, so watch this space: we’ll be rolling out more monthly specials, and we’re always happy to help groups flying in from out of town jump right into a gravel adventure.
If you’re keen to book a seat, have a question, or want to hear when our next trip opens, just get in touch or have a look on the monthly specials on the website, we’re even thinking of making this a transport package for groups on our adventure packages page!
Want to fly in and tackle it as a loop yourself… we have bikes and gear available on the website and are happy to offer free advice.
Ready to ride? Check out our itinerary map for the tour, sign up for updates, or get in touch with your dream destination. See you out on the gravel road!
Leave a Reply