Self-Guided Wine Tours by Bike with Lorelle & Greg

Blenheim’s Marlborough region is famous worldwide for its exceptional Sauvignon Blanc and stunning vineyard scenery. If you’re a wine lover looking for an active, laid-back way to explore the area, the Self-Guided Wine Tours by Bike with Lorelle & Greg offers a charming blend of freedom, comfort, and authentic tasting experiences. Priced at around $42.69 per person, this tour lasts roughly 7 hours and is perfect for those who want to enjoy Marlborough’s vineyards at their own pace, with all the logistical stuff taken care of.

The tour kicks off from Renwick, right in the heart of Marlborough, where you’ll be greeted by Lorelle, Greg, and their friendly team. What we love most about this experience is the carefully maintained bikes, designed for cruising, with comfy seats, baskets, and wine-specific panniers—meaning you can comfortably carry your bottles home. Plus, the expert local advice and detailed maps help you navigate the 14 cellar doors, which are just 5 to 10 minutes apart by bike. Another highlight is the support infrastructure—a free shuttle service if you’re staying within 15 km, a full emergency backup, and the option to have your wines collected and delivered.

However, one point to consider is that this is a self-guided experience, so you’ll need to be comfortable navigating on your own and managing your time between tastings. It’s also worth noting that tasting fees aren’t included—budget around $15-$30 per person—and lunch is separate, with plenty of nearby options but no included meal.

This experience suits independent travelers who enjoy the freedom of setting their own pace, as well as those keen on combining outdoor activity with wine tasting. It’s especially great for couples, friends, or small groups looking for a relaxed, personalized day amid scenic vineyards.

Key Points

• Flexible self-guided biking through Marlborough’s renowned vineyards
• Includes bikes, helmets, and panniers, designed for a comfortable ride
• Detailed maps and itineraries help you choose your cellar doors and plan your day
• Support and shuttle services minimize logistical worries
• Tasting fees and lunch are extra, so budget accordingly
• Ideal for independent, active wine lovers seeking a relaxed, customizable experience

A Closer Look at the Marlborough Bike & Wine Experience

Imagine pedaling along quiet country roads, with the sun warming your back and a gentle breeze in your face. That’s exactly what Lorelle, Greg, and their team craft with this self-guided biking tour. Starting from 33 Blicks Road in Renwick, a small, inviting town at the heart of Marlborough, you’re set to explore some of New Zealand’s most famous vineyards without the pressure of a guided group.

The Logistics and Setting

You can choose between two timeslots: 10 am to 4 pm with pickup from your accommodation at 9:30 am, or 11 am to 5 pm with pickup at 10:30 am. The shuttle service is a thoughtful touch, especially if you’re staying in Blenheim within 15 km of the base, making the day even more relaxed. For those driving, free parking is available at the starting point, which means you can either bike directly or use the shuttle, depending on your preferred start.

When you arrive, the team will help you select a bike that fits you best—whether you’ll prefer a comfy step-through, a tandem, or even a trike. After a quick safety briefing and a short video overview of the cellar doors, you’ll be equipped with a detailed map, menus, and friendly suggestions. The maps are a real help in making the most of your day, guiding you through the 14 cellar doors that are conveniently close together.

The Cellar Doors

One of the best aspects of this experience is the vast selection of cellar doors that don’t require prior booking—just show up and enjoy a tasting. The only exceptions are Hans Herzog, Cloudy Bay, and Framingham Wines, which do require reservations. These are a bit further afield, so if visiting them is on your list, planning ahead is smart.

During your day, you’ll encounter a variety of wineries, from large producers like Allan Scott (just 7 minutes bike ride from base) to boutique estates. Lorelle and Greg’s recommendations and knowledge help you decide where to stop, based on your preferences.

Tasting & Food

Most cellar doors offer cheese or mixed platters that you can order on arrival—no need to pre-book. If you’re hungry for more substantial fare, there are excellent options within biking distance, including Vines Village Café (20 min), Allan Scott (40 min), and The Fancy Cow (25 min). A word of caution: avoid the more distant wineries like Wither Hills or Saint Clair by bike—they’re too far for a comfortable day trip without a car.

The Experience on the Bikes

The bikes are designed for easy cruising, making this suitable even if you’re not a regular cyclist. Multiple reviewers have praised the comfortable seats, friendly staff, and well-maintained equipment. As one guest mentioned, “Jo and Steve provided great guidance on creating a memorable biking wine tasting route,” and their attention to customer comfort shines through.

You’ll love the way the bikes allow you to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and savor the wines at your own pace. The self-guided format means you control your rhythm, whether that’s stopping for a longer tasting or taking a break on a scenic bench. The Hi-Vis helmets and helpful safety instructions make you feel secure, even if you’re not used to biking in a vineyard landscape.

Authentic, Relaxed, and Customizable

Authenticity runs through this tour. You’re not herded through a fixed schedule but instead encouraged to explore based on your interests. This flexibility is reflected in the glowing reviews—many of which emphasize how much they appreciated the expert advice, friendly service, and beautiful scenery.

One guest summed it up: “This is a great way to enjoy the Marlborough wine region,” with another praising the “fabulous staff who really help you tailor your experience.”

Value for Money

Though tasting fees are extra, the $42.69 price includes bike hire, helmets, panniers, maps, and shuttle service, which is a fair deal considering the personalized experience and ease of logistics. The full backup support and friendly local advice add significant value, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for independent travelers, couples, or groups who appreciate flexibility and comfort. If you’re keen on sampling a diverse range of Marlborough wines without being rushed, and want to enjoy the scenery on a leisurely bike ride, this is a perfect fit. It’s also ideal if you prefer not to be part of a large tour group and enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace.

On top of that, if you’re new to biking or prefer a relaxed, scenic route, the well-maintained bikes and friendly support make this accessible. Food, wine, and scenery combine here to create a personalized, memorable day in one of New Zealand’s premier wine regions.

The Sum Up

The Self-Guided Wine Tours by Bike with Lorelle & Greg offers a relaxed, authentic way to experience Marlborough’s renowned vineyards. With comfortable bikes, detailed maps, a flexible schedule, and expert local advice, it’s a fantastic choice for those who want to enjoy the scenery and wine at their own pace. The support services and variety of cellar doors make it more than just a bike ride—it’s a personalized adventure that balances independence with comfort.

While the tasting fees and optional lunch add to the cost, the overall value is clear. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activity, tasting wines, and exploring freely without the constraints of a guided tour. Perfect for couples, friends, or solo adventurers who want a day of laid-back discovery amid Marlborough’s stunning vineyards.

FAQ

Do I need to pre-book the cellar doors?
No, most cellar doors in the area don’t require pre-booking; you can just turn up and enjoy tastings. The only ones that do need reservations are Hans Herzog, Cloudy Bay, and Framingham Wines.

What if I don’t ride bikes often?
The bikes are designed for comfort and easy cruising, suitable even for occasional cyclists. The guided instructions and friendly staff help ensure a smooth experience.

Are tasting fees included?
No, tasting fees are paid separately and typically range from $15 to $30 per person. Most cellar doors offer cheese platters that can be ordered on the spot.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, there’s a free shuttle service from your accommodation within 15 km of Renwick, and free parking is available if you drive yourselves.

Can I bring my own wine home?
Yes, the team offers a free wine collection service, so you can have your bottles stored and collected after your tastings.

What’s the best way to choose which cellar doors to visit?
The detailed maps, staff recommendations, and tasting videos help you decide based on your preferences—whether you’re after large, well-known wineries or smaller boutique estates.

This self-guided biking tour combines the best of Marlborough’s scenic vineyards, friendly service, and personal freedom. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply want a relaxed, active day in the countryside, Lorelle and Greg’s experience offers genuine value and memorable moments.