NELSON GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Coast, Vines and Golden Sands: A Day Cycling from Nelson to Mapua’s Wine Trees
A 6–7 hour, 30 km self-guided coastal cycle from Nelson to Rabbit Island and Mapua that includes two wine tastings, a short ferry crossing and a shuttle ride home.
Coast, Vines and Golden Sands: A Day Cycling from Nelson to Mapua’s Wine Trees.
Cycle the sheltered coast out of Nelson to magical Mapua, pairing sea-salted air with two memorable wine tastings — one beside the water and another among vines at Nelson’s oldest vineyard. The route threads golden sands at Rabbit Island, a short ferry across to Mapua’s wharfside village and time to linger over Rimu Grove’s ‘wine tree’ selection and the town’s lively cafés and restaurants before a relaxed shuttle return.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Coastal cycling and island sands
A scenic coastal ride from Nelson takes you past Rabbit Island’s broad golden beaches and on to a short ferry crossing into the charming wharfside village of Mapua — an ideal balance of sea and shoreline riding.
Two distinct wine experiences
The day includes two wine tastings: a seaside tasting in Mapua — featuring a ‘wine tree’ tasting at Rimu Grove Wine Bar — and a second tasting set among the vines at Nelson’s oldest vineyard.
Mapua’s dining and an easy return
Mapua offers a collection of arty cafés and waterfront dining — fine options include Jellyfish and the Apple Shed — then you can save your energy on the shuttle ride back along the coast to Nelson.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The day unfolds as an easy-to-follow coastal pedaling loop: steady stretches of low-traffic shoreline riding, a detour to the wide, sunlit sands of Rabbit Island, a brief ferry across to Mapua’s picturesque wharf and relaxed wine tastings set first on the water and then among historic vines — all capped by a comfortable shuttle back to Nelson.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Allow 6 to 7 hours for the full outing.
Approximately 30 km of self-guided cycling with two wine tastings, a short ferry crossing and a shuttle return.
The source material does not list a specific mandatory gear list; plan for a full day on a bike and bring weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection and any personal cycling essentials.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long does the Great Taste Wine - Gold tour take?
Allow 6 to 7 hours for the full outing.
How far will I cycle?
The route covers about 30 km of coastal cycling.
Is the tour guided?
This is a self-guided tour.
How many wine tastings are included?
Two wine tastings are included — one by the sea in Mapua and a second among the vines at Nelson’s oldest vineyard.
Is transport provided?
The outing includes a short ferry crossing to Mapua and a shuttle ride back along the coast to Nelson at the end of the day.
Are there dining options in Mapua?
Yes — Mapua has many cafés and restaurants; recommended options in the source material include Jellyfish and the Apple Shed, and live music often plays from mid‑afternoon.