February 13, 2025
Rest Day Hanmer Springs.
A new side adventure begins.
I rolled into Hanmer about 3 pm yesterday and I’ve been having a great time since. I grabbed a resupply and then headed to Grum and Juliet’s. Unfortunately, Juliet is away working so it’s just us hanging out and having fun. Last night Grum made a delicious taco meal and encouraged me to eat a biker size portion and I happily obliged.
In the morning we got up and headed straight for his regular walk up Conical Hill. It’s a fantastic wide path that leads straight out of town and up to a lookout. If you want to live a long life that’s the medicine. It gets your heart going, plus the scenery is gorgeous.
After the walk we hit a local restaurant for a delicious breakfast and another coffee. Then it was back to his place where I tinkered on my bike and then off for an hour tour of the Hanmer Springs mountain bike network. Not surprisingly with the punchy climbs I could feel my legs scream a bit.
Then we spent the early afternoon replanning my bike trip. There are 4 rides that Grum said I can’t miss.
So, I’m off the S2S for about a week. Tomorrow I’ll start riding St. James’s trail which starts 15 km outside of Hanmer. I’ll ride it for about 65 km to join the Rainbow Trail and then 68 km on that trail. Both trails are supposed to be epic.
Then I’ll have some road riding to get me over to the west side of the Island to ride the Old Ghost Road. This trail is difficult and I may be slightly under biked but I’ll take it easy and slow and walk if necessary.
Then from the end of that trail I’ll ride right along the coast until I reach the Paparoa Track. It’s another 57 km trail. And then I’ll ride another 200 km to rejoin the S2S at Methven.
I’m not sure how many days this portion will take. The trail and my fitness will decide that for me.
It’s been a great break in Hanmer Springs. This is one of the most idyllic towns I’ve visited. It has really nice town area with lots of shops and the springs are located right in the core; I spent a few hours there soaking today and learning about politics in many countries. Running through town is a nice park with picnic benches and loads of shade. And then there are epic views of the surrounding mountains and valley.
I feel rested and ready to resume the riding.
https://www.nzcycletrail.com/find-your-ride/23-great-rides/
^If you are interested in the rides I’m doing this stretch there’s more information on this site.
Highlights:
-endless tour conversations with Grum
-walk up Conical and MTB tour
-soaking in the hot springs
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