About Us
We started running cycle tours over 15 years ago. We were the original company to operate cycle tours on the Alps 2 Ocean trail, under the name “A2O Cycle Tours”. The business grew and evolved with the development of New Zealand’s Great Rides – a network of world-class cycle trails that explore our most beautiful landscapes. As these trails were developed the business developed more tours to include the Around the Mountains, West Coast Wilderness, Roxburgh Gorge and Clutha Gold trails. These were purpose-built cycle trails, not built on old disused railway lines and so the business changed its name to “Not A Rail Trail”.
In 2019 the business changed hands and commenced the next stage of its journey. We deliberately held a prolonged handover period to ensure we carried over the most important attributes of the business. Our principles of quality and value remain fundamental and our core cycle trail tours have not changed to any significant extent. They have been carefully developed over many years and we will continue to make small improvements. Our returning customers continue to enjoy the same high quality and attention to detail as they have always experienced.
Over the past 7 years we have continued to push up the quality of our accommodation, restaurants, service and support. We train our team to the highest standards and moved to having 2 guides on every tour. This allows 1 guide to drive the van and trailer, providing vehicle support to our guests while riding and setting up morning teas and picnics along the trail. The other guide often rides at the back of the group providing rider support on more remote and challenging sections of trails where vehicle support is not possible. The support rider carries tools, first aid and emergency equipment and can fix punctures, bike problems, deal with accidents and if need be coordinate evacuations. They also provide support and encouragement to any less confident riders in the group. This allows us to provide a high level of support to our riders at all times and deliver a great tour, even with a wide range of riding experiences within the group.
Some of our tours (eg Alps 2 Ocean) are a long continuous journey where we often ride from accommodation to accommodation. Others are a collection of great cycle trails where we cherry-pick the best sections of riding to create fabulous itineraries, allowing us to spend more than 1 night in some places.
Our tours are much more than just a collection of great NZ bike rides. We include world-class experiences and provide in-depth local knowledge to give our guests an understanding of the history, culture and geography of the region. And we design our tours to “flow” well, so you can relax and enjoy the great riding, picnics, restaurants, activities and accommodation without feeling pressured. You don’t need to worry about anything, or make any decisions (except what you want to order at the restaurants, of course) we take care of everything, look after you and help you have a wonderful time. Come join us for a truly unique and amazing experience of New Zealand’s great outdoors.
Escape by Cycle