One Day Options:
Pemberton Trail: Hodd Cottage to Vinegar Hill Domain - 54km
Heading east from Hodd Cottage you have views of the Ruahine Ranges all the way while you cycle through scenic flats and hill country farmland on a sealed road. At Pemberton’s Corner the road descends then undulates until the ride finishes at the Rangitikei River and very popular Vinegar Hill Domain, perfect for a swim before we collect you and your bikes to return to Hodd Cottage. Bring and pack your own food, or see below for catering options.
Two Valleys Round Trip: Hodd Cottage to Hodd Cottage via Kawhatau Valley - 38km
Cycle west toward Mangaweka through the magnificent papa cliffs on Ruahine Road, with the deep breath-taking gorge of the Mangawharariki River below you. The route turns into the attractive Kawhatau Valley and after 18km turns onto the unsealed Auputa Road where you are rewarded with stands of native trees and bird song. Eventually you come back onto Ruahine Road and head for home, possibly for a well-deserved swim in the secluded pools of the Mangawharariki River just below Hodd Cottage. Bring and pack your own food, or see below for catering options.
Manawatu Alternative Trail: Hodd Cottage to Feilding - 60km
Stay at Hodd Cottage the night before you follow the Pemberton Trail until at Pemberton’s Corner you continue on Rangiwahia Road and ride through Kimbolton, Kiwitia and Cheltenham. A lovely scenic and mostly downhill route that passes cafes and gardens via a rural landscape with the Ruahine Ranges in view the entire time. This ride comes to an end on the flat country surrounding the Feilding area. You would need your own “sag wagon” for this trip, and onward accommodation near Fielding (we can provide accommodation recommendations). Bring and pack your own food, or see below for catering options.
Two Day Option:
Manawatu Country Road Cycle Trail: Hodd Cottage to Palmerston North - 106km
Start this two day trip at Hodd Cottage then choose your second night’s accommodation en route (we recommend staying around Apiti and can provide accommodation recommendations). This off-the-beaten-track route takes you through dramatic scenery on a journey to discover hidden places and tucked-away treasures ranging from convivial country cafes and pubs; heritage sites, galleries and gardens, to scenic reserves, day walks, swimming holes, glow-worm caves, picnic areas, and camping spots. End your two day ride in Fielding or Palmerston North (we can provide accommodation recommendations). You would need your own “sag wagon” for this trip. Bring and pack your own food, or see below for catering options.
Cycle Stays Catering Options:
- Self-catering: tea, instant coffee, milo and sugar supplied in Hodd Cottage
- Breakfast/Lunch: food for breakfast and lunches can be supplied and will be in Hodd Cottage when you arrive, so all you need to do is prepare your meals at your convenience
- Dinner: have a night off from cooking with a prepared two course dinner delivered to Hodd Cottage on the night of your choice. Simply heat and enjoy – too easy!