Lake Dunstan E-Bike Trail: Ride from Cromwell to Clyde

Summary

Explore Central Otago by E-Bike: Lake Dunstan Trail Highlights

You’ll ride top-notch e-bikes along Lake Dunstan’s edge—from Cromwell’s historic precinct through vineyard country and dramatic gorges—all with local support and zero hassle.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air in Clyde has this crispness that wakes you up before your first coffee. We met at the depot right in the old part of town—stone buildings, a bit of chatter from other riders, and our guide, Pete, who knows every bend of the trail. He checked our bikes (mine had a gel seat—thank goodness) and ran us through the basics. I’d never used an e-bike before, but Pete made it feel easy.

A quick shuttle ride later, we rolled into Old Cromwell. The place feels like a movie set—old gold rush buildings with fresh paint, some locals setting up for the weekend market. You can still smell bread baking at Armando’s café if you catch it early enough. The start of the Lake Dunstan Trail is right there by the water, and honestly, you can’t help but stop for a photo or two before pedaling off.

The trail hugs Lake Dunstan almost the whole way back to Clyde—42 kilometers of changing views. There are these wild stretches where you’re riding above vineyards (the Pinot Noir vines look almost too neat), then suddenly you’re out on platforms bolted into sheer rock faces over the lake. At one point, we pulled over near Bannockburn for a quick glass at a cellar door—no pressure to rush, just time to soak it all in. The last bit through Cromwell Gorge is something else; wind picks up there and you get this echo off the cliffs that’s hard to describe unless you’ve been.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Lake Dunstan E-Bike Adventure

• Meet at Clyde Depot
• Briefing on e-bike
• Transfer to Old Cromwell Historic Precinct
• Start Lake Dunstan Trail ride
• Ride along Lake Dunstan shores
• Visit Cromwell Heritage Precinct
• Optional wine tasting in Cromwell Basin or Bannockburn
• Ride through Cromwell Gorge to Clyde

Top questions

Is this ride suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! The e-bikes make hills easy, and our team gives a full briefing before you start. Just bring basic cycling confidence.

Can I stop at wineries along the way?

Yes—you can pull into cellar doors in Cromwell Basin or Bannockburn for tastings or to grab a bottle for later.

What should I bring with me?

A water bottle, sunscreen, layers for changing weather, and your phone (for photos!). We provide helmets, pannier bags, and everything else.

How long does the ride take?

Most people finish in 4–6 hours depending on stops—there’s no rush so you can enjoy at your own pace.

What’s included

Your ride includes a comfy gel seat e-bike, helmet, pannier bag for your stuff, shuttle transfer from Clyde to Old Cromwell, use of our Central Cycle Trail App (iOS/Android), and friendly local support all day.