Road Cycling around Queenstown

There are some great road cycling routes around Queenstown if you have the legs for it!

Queenstown is fast building a repuation as the mountainbiking destination in the southern hemisphere but the fantastic road cycling in the region is still a well kept secret. 

Given the mountainous terrain all around, you do need to be fit.  But if you make it up the switchbacks you will get some amazing views and benefit from equally long downhills too.

The Crown Range road between Queenstown and Wanaka is a great example.

MapMyRide has a map and elevation view of this. 134km long and nearly 1,600m of gain.  Stop for a rest at the top of the first climb and look back for the perfect panorama view of the Wakatipu Basin with the Remarkables piercing the sky.

If you only want to go halfway you can stop for a leisurely lunch in Cardrona and then make your way back down to your accommodation in Queenstown. 

At the other end of the scale is a circular route through quiet rural country between Queenstown and Arrowtown. 

Head north from the CBD up Queenstown Gorge and across the Shotover before taking a left onto Littles Road. 

After meandering along here turn right again onto Domain Road and follow this to the T junction with Frankton Road and turn right to head back to Queenstown. A mere 29km and about 260m of gain.

Whichever kind of ride is you, afterwards you will appreciate relaxing in a sauna or spa bath and very comfortable surroundings.

Hurleys of Queenstown is run by bike enthusiasts Ann and Alister Cowan who have thought about more than just your comfort. 

There is plenty of space to work on your bike if needed and a secure indoor storage area for your bike and gear.  They are also happy to lend you tools or advise about where to find a bike mechanic.