TranzAlpine West Coast Cycle Trail Escape

Duration: 4 Days

Price: from NZ$2,195

Departure From: Christchurch

Departure Date: Flexible Dates

Tour Type: Independent Tour - Fully Flexible

Tour Operator: LOCO Journeys

Meal Plan: Breakfast Daily and selected meals

Physical Grading: 3

ENQUIRE NOW

Loco Journeys’ TranzAlpine West Coast Cycle Trail Escape offers a unique off the beaten track break, and features some of New Zealand’s iconic highlights.

If you are seeking an independent escape that offers something completely different then take a longer look at our TranzAlpine West Coast Cycle Trail escape. We have brought together a package where you can enjoy stunning landscapes without the hassle of driving to them, where you can sit back, relax in a spa and enjoy the sound of the surf meeting the shore, and where you can engage with local communities and admire amazing views as you gently enjoy one of NZ’s great cycle rides at a pace that suits you.

Across four full but relaxing and refreshing days to the West Coast, you will feel like you have been away for a fortnight – and that includes a journey on New Zealand’s finest scenic rail journey.

Included in your escape is the chance to experience the West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail ranked as one of New Zealand’s Great Rides. Stretching from Greymouth’s historic port to the neat old gold town of Ross, this easy trail takes riders on a journey through the Coast’s incredible natural landscapes, and back in time to Māori pounamu (greenstone) gathering and the glittering gold rush era.

There’s no better way to get up close to the West Coast’s lush rainforest, pristine rivers, tranquil lakes and rugged beaches, with the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps a truly sublime backdrop

nzcycletrail.com

For any all-encompasing breakaway you are going to want to be able to enjoy a good night’s sleep and this is another absolute highlight of this terrific escape. Breakers Boutique accommodation offers a stunning setting, absolute beachfront location with superb sea views.

The TranzAlpine West Coast Cycle Trail Escape ticks the boxes for couples who are looking to get away from it all, leave behind the daily grind, relax in quality off-grid beachfront accommodation whilst at the same time enjoying New Zealand’s scenic wonders by bike and by train.

West Coast Cycle Trail

Please contact LOCO for any pre/post travel arrangements we can help you with beyond your TranzAlpine

TranzAlpine West Coast Cycle Trail Escape Highlights

  • The magnificent train ride through the Southern Alps on the TranzAlpine scenic train
  • Experience the peace and tranquility of an absolute beachfront retreat on the West Coast at Breakers Boutique Accommodation
  • Explore parts of the West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail across 2 days
  • Soak away the days ride in the spa
  • Savour homemade pizza in the comfort of your surroundings
  • Watch the beautiful West Coast sunsets

TranzAlpine Booking Classes

The TranzAlpine has two distinct service levels to their train journey. Both classes are worthy of what you pay, and both a thoroughly enjoyable way to make the most of your TranzAlpine train experience.

TranzAlpine Scenic Class Experience

Glide through the heart of New Zealand’s beautiful scenery in Scenic Class carriages, with epic landscape views filling your window while you relax in your seat.

In Scenic Class you’ll experience spacious reclined seats with generous amounts of legroom and comfort, panoramic windows, glass shelves and skylights. And to heighten your comfort, state-of-the-art airbag suspension has been used to guarantee a smooth ride across our rugged New Zealand terrain.

While onboard, you might like a stroll to the Scenic Cafe carriage where you’ll find a great selection of hot and cold snacks, drinks and ice creams. Indulge in a freshly brewed specialty tea or barista coffee married with a sumptuous cake? Or perhaps toast your special journey with a bottle of bubbles?

The Scenic Cafe opens for coffee and breakfast before the train departs and continues serving throughout the day. You can take a seat in the Scenic Cafe carriage and feast upon the views whilst eating. But you are also welcome to return to your seat to dine and drink if you would prefer. The day is yours to do as you choose! 

During the hot summer months, the Open-air Viewing Carriage is a great place to get some fresh air and enjoy the great outdoors while on the move. You can whittle away the hours chatting and gazing out upon spectacular scenery and wildlife. It is also that perfect place for capturing those magical views on camera.

Learn the stories of our land while you travel by plugging into the Scenic Class Audio Commentary at your seat. The commentary provides a seamless stream of stories, narratives and facts about the places outside your window and is available on all three Scenic Class services, including the Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine.

Northern Explorer View from the Open Air Carriage

TranzAlpine Scenic Plus Class Experience

Inside the refined Scenic Plus Class carriages, it’s more than just a journey. You’ll be treated to fresh food, captivating commentary, great hosting and spectacular views, all delivered to your seat while you ease back and enjoy the journey. There really is no better way to discover New Zealand. 

At the heart of the Scenic Plus experience is the refined Scenic Plus Class carriage, with huge panoramic windows, glass shelves and skylights, bathing you in those gorgeous coastal and mountain landscapes. 

taste of the west coast

With freshly prepared food inspired by the fields that glide past your window and regional wines to match, you’ll be immersed in the flavours of our land. As you admire the views our Scenic Plus hosts will recount the stories and histories of the passing landscapes and landmarks. 

When you step off the train, you will have experienced some of the best New Zealand has to offer. 

Your TranzAlpine West Coast Cycle Trail Accommodation

The highly rated Breakers Boutique Accommodation offers stunning absolute beachfront location with superb sea views where you can relax to the sound of the breaking waves. Your stay includes access to the spa, free WiFi and the chance to enjoy a homemade pizza. Guest rooms all overlook the sea, have ensuite bathrooms, indoor seating area, outdoor balcony/deck access with outdoor seating and fantastic sea views. You can lie in bed and watch the rolling surf and be lulled to sleep by the sound of the breaking waves. Sit back, relax and enjoy the sea views and watch the sun setting over the Tasman Sea.

Breakers Boutique Accommodation

For a detailed itinerary, the TranzAlpine timetable, departure days, and fare conditions, please see below.

For alternate TranzAlpine Escapes click here, and for a wider selections of South Island rail packages featuring the TranzAlpine and other rail journeys, click here

Departure Dates & Timetable

  • TranzAlpine operates daily departures during summer from late September to early May.
  • The TranzAlpine does not operate on Christmas day.
  • The train typically operates on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday during winter months.
  • There is one departure from Christchurch on operating days.
  • The TranzAlpine departs Christchurch at 8.15am and arrives into Greymouth Station at 13.05pm
  • The TranzAlpine departs Greymouth at 14.05pm and arrives into Christchurch at 19.00
  • You must be at the station at least 30 minutes prior to departure.

Tour Inclusions

  • Return TranzAlpine Rail Journey from Christchurch to Greymouth in Scenic Class
  • 3 nights accommodation at the Breakers Boutique Accommodation in a Breakthrough room
  • Return Transfers from/to Greymouth Railway Station and Breakers
  • Breakfast daily
  • Homemade Pizza on one night
  • Self-guided cycle tour including bike hire (e-bike upgrade available) and helmet for 2 days with drop off/pick up both days.
  • Daily packed lunch
  • Use of accommodation spa – winter months only

 

Pricing Notes

  • Advertised from price based on per person twin share, subject to availability
  • Single supplements available on request
  • Upgrade to electric bike $350.00 for 2 people.
  • Pre/post flights, accommodation or other travel arrangements are available on request
  • Price is subject to change unless paid in full
ENQUIRE NOW

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 | Christchurch - TranzAlpine Train - Greymouth
This morning, your exciting off the beaten track journey begins in Christchurch, departing on the iconic TranzAlpine Scenic Train through to Greymouth. Sit back with a morning coffee and watch as the train meanders across the vast patchwork plains of Canterbury - one of New Zealand's primary agricultural regions. On the far side of the plains, you begin your ascent into the formidable Southern Alps. The section between Springfield and the township of Arthur's Pass, is considered a masterpiece of railway engineering and is the section for which the TranzAlpine is most famed. The route firstly heads north-east to join the Waimakariri River gorge. This aqua-blue river will appear and disappear out of your window several times as the TranzAlpine clings and climbs up the cliffs above it. During the ascent the train passes through 15 short tunnels and over four dramatic viaducts, including the 72-metre high Staircase Viaduct. The most iconic views come at the far end of the Craigieburn Straight, where the high plains stretch out to give a stunning view of Mount Binser and the edges of Arthur's Pass National Park. Shortly after, the train meets again with the Waimakariri River and then crosses it to reach Arthur's Pass at approximately 10.51am. This section is stunningly beautiful and is where the famous views of the TranzAlpine crossing the Waimakariri River are taken. If weather permits, make your way to the Open-air carriage where you can take some fabulous photographs. The Train makes a brief stop at Arthur's Pass Station before it descends through the 8.5km long Otira Tunnel. This landmark structure was the second longest tunnel in the world when it was completed in 1923. Its historic completion also marked the completion of the Midland Line and the opening of the railway line from Christchurch to Greymouth. The Otira Tunnel marks the transition from Canterbury to West Coast and the landscape becomes remarkably different on the far side. The weather is typically wetter and the scenery more green and vibrant. The TranzAlpine follows a series of river valleys as it descends to Greymouth starting with the Otira River and the Taramakau River. During these stretches, you are nestled intimately between the mountainous hills with the rugged, broad, riverbeds meandering alongside the tracks. At Inchbonnie the TranzAlpine loops back on itself to head around the lush lake valleys to Moana, on the banks of the spectacular Lake Brunner. The TranzAlpine then joins the Arnold River valley which spills out into the Grey River valley on its final stretch before finally pulling into Greymouth Railway Station. From here you will be met by a representative of Breakers Boutique Accommodation who will transfer you to their tranquil hideaway by the sea. Jan and Stephen are your hosts during your stay in their little slice of paradise. Once you have settled into your accommodation, why not discover Nile Mile Beach in front of Breakers. You can access the beach via the private walkway. Its also a good idea to have a chat with Jan or Stephen about your next 2 days biking the West Coast Wilderness Trail. They often bike the trail themselves so can assess your needs or abilities and recommend which parts of the trail would be best suited.
After breakfast, you will be equipped with bike, helmet and a packed lunch and driven to your pre-arranged section of the West Coast Wilderness Trail. Whether its following in the footsteps of the old prospectors, riding amongst majestic native forest or through stunning wetlands, you are sure to have a most wonderful adventure on your bike trail today. At the end of your trail section you will be picked up and transferred back to your accommodation where you can relax and enjoy the seaviews, soak your tired legs in the spa and enjoy a handmade pizza dinner in your peaceful surrounds.
This morning you are up and out after breakfast to explore another section of the trail. After your magnificent day out you may want to just chillax again in the evening with pizza or try the local pub.
This morning after checkout, you will reluctantly leave the peaceful retreat of Breakers. You will be transferred back into Greymouth Township where you can spend some time exploring, or grab a spot of lunch or a brewery tour at Monteiths Brewery. Loco Journeys can recommend some options. Your afternoon TranzAlpine train departs for Christchurch at 2pm. You can now rest your weary bike legs while enjoying the vista from your seat. Listen to the rhythmic clackety-clack as the train passes through the familiar scenery of the West Coast, back through the Alps and down into the Plains before arriving into Christchurch in time for dinner. Your tour ends. If you require accommodation off the train please advise Loco Journeys at the time of booking.

For more information about this tour, price queries and updates on specials, please Enquire Now.