Cheers to Craft Beer

Nelson, New Zealand, is famous for its hop-growing and craft beer culture, making it an ideal destination for anyone who appreciates good brews and scenic rides. For $78.42 per person, you can spend roughly six hours exploring the local brewing scene on an easy, self-guided bike tour that takes you along the flat, off-road Great Taste Trail. The experience includes visits to two popular breweries, tastings of beer or cider, and the chance to enjoy Nelson’s vibrant food scene—without the rush or guide-led schedule.

What we love about this tour is how flexible and relaxed it is: you set your own pace, enjoy the stunning surroundings, and savor some of New Zealand’s finest craft beverages. Plus, the inclusion of a comprehensive route guide and all necessary cycling gear makes it accessible even for casual cyclists. The only consideration? Since the tour’s schedule depends on brewery opening hours (starting no earlier than 11 am), it’s best suited for those who enjoy a leisurely start and are happy to plan around local hours.

This tour suits travelers who love craft beer, enjoy light physical activity, and prefer a self-guided experience that offers freedom and flexibility. It’s perfect for those seeking an authentic taste of Nelson’s brewing culture without the constraints of a larger group or guided tour.

Key Points

• Flexible self-guided ride along flat, off-road paths makes for an easy and scenic experience
• Includes tastings of beer and cider at local breweries, with food available
• All cycling gear and route guides provided, perfect for beginners or casual cyclists
• Focus on authentic Nelson brews and hop-growing heritage, with opportunities to visit other local tastes
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind
• Suitable for most travelers looking for a relaxed, flavorful day out

Discovering Nelson’s Craft Beer Scene on Two Wheels

This self-guided brewery tour offers a wonderful way to explore Nelson’s renowned hop-growing region while enjoying some of New Zealand’s best craft beers. Our experience began at Nelson Cycle Hire and Tours’ depot at Nelson Airport, where we received a friendly briefing and all our gear—helmets, locks, panniers, and detailed maps. The setup was straightforward, making it clear this is designed to be accessible for all.

The route is a straightforward 20 km loop on off-road, flat cycle paths—perfect for a relaxed, no-stress ride. We loved how the route stays close to the airport, passing through scenic countryside and farmland dotted with hop vines. The quiet, well-maintained paths meant we didn’t have to worry about traffic, allowing us to focus on the beautiful surroundings and the anticipation of tasting local brews.

Itinerary Breakdown and Highlights

Start at Nelson Airport and Head Along the Great Taste Trail

The ride begins at the departure point just beside the airport, where we picked up our route guide and got ready to pedal. The trail’s flat terrain makes it suitable for all cycling levels, and the off-road paths keep it peaceful and easygoing. The route takes you through rural landscapes, where hop fields thrive—giving you a sense of how central brewing ingredients are to Nelson’s identity.

First Brewery Visit: Tasting and Food

The first stop features a local brewery serving great food alongside their craft beers. Here, you’ll receive a voucher for a beer or cider tasting, which we enjoyed in a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for sipping and chatting about the flavors. The breweries are within easy reach, with plenty of time to soak in the ambiance and perhaps enjoy a snack or two.

Optional Visit to Pic’s Peanut Butter

If you’re early, you might want to visit Pic’s Peanut Butter nearby, which offers a free tour (must be pre-booked). It’s a fun detour that adds a different taste of Nelson’s local food scene—great for a quick, sweet break before heading to the next brewery.

Second Brewery and End of the Ride

After the second brewery visit, where we enjoyed more tastings, the ride concludes back at the starting point at Nelson Airport. We appreciated the convenience of returning to where we began, knowing we didn’t need to worry about transport or logistics.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

What makes this tour special is how it balances authenticity with practicality. The route takes you through real hop-growing country, and you’ll get a behind-the-scenes feel for Nelson’s brewing heritage. The breweries serve delicious food, making this more than just a tasting tour—it’s a full culinary experience.

The cost of $78.42 includes everything you need: bike, helmet, route notes, and a tasting voucher. It’s a good value, especially considering the quality of the craft beers you’ll sample and the scenic, hassle-free ride. The only extra cost might be food outside the provided tastings, but most breweries serve great pub-style fare that’s worth trying.

Travelers have praised the knowledgeable guides and the excellent food offerings, making the experience more than just a casual ride. One review noted, “We loved the way the guide explained the hop-growing process and the variety of beers.” This highlights the tour’s focus on an educational, engaging experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys craft beer and light physical activity in a scenic setting, this is a wonderful choice. It’s particularly suitable if you want the flexibility to pedal at your own pace, savor local flavors, and explore Nelson’s hop-growing roots. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers who prefer a relaxed, self-guided experience rather than a guided tour with a set timetable.

While not a lengthy or strenuous ride, it offers enough scenic variety and tasting opportunities to make it a memorable day. Keep in mind that the tour depends on brewery hours, so starting slightly later allows you to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or explore other nearby attractions.

Final Thoughts

This Cheers to Craft Beer tour offers genuine value for anyone wanting an authentic taste of Nelson’s brewing culture while enjoying a relaxed, scenic bike ride. The combination of delicious tastings, beautiful countryside, and the freedom of self-guided exploration makes it stand out among typical brewery visits. It’s particularly well-suited for beer lovers, casual cyclists, and those looking for a low-stress way to savor Nelson’s local flavors.

The experience’s emphasis on local breweries, on-site food, and hop-growing heritage gives it an authentic edge, and the provided gear and route guide make it accessible. Whether you’re visiting Nelson for a day or just looking to add a memorable, flavorful activity to your trip, this tour is a practical, enjoyable choice.

Is this tour suitable for cyclists of all levels?
Yes, the route is on flat, off-road paths, making it perfect for most levels of cycling experience, including beginners.

How long does the ride last?
The entire loop is approximately 20 km and takes about 2 to 3 hours, but you can adapt your timing depending on how long you want to linger at each stop.

Are food and drinks included?
Food is not included, but you will receive a voucher for a beer or cider tasting at the brewery. The breweries also serve good food, which you can purchase separately.

Can I visit Pic’s Peanut Butter during the tour?
Yes, if you start early enough, you can include a visit to Pic’s Peanut Butter for a free tour (must be pre-booked), adding a sweet extra to your day.

What do I need to bring?
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for cycling, some cash or credit card for extra food or souvenirs, and a positive attitude.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. It’s wise to check the forecast and plan accordingly.

This self-guided ride through Nelson’s hop fields and breweries promises a relaxed, authentic, and flavorful adventure—ideal for anyone eager to combine scenic cycling with the joy of local craft beers.