Leisurely cycle trails in Central Otago

Driving over the old bridge in Clyde I felt as though I had stepped back in time to the Wild West. The buildings in this old town still remain standing from the heydays of the gold rush, a testament to the late 1900’s and a time of prosperity in this area.

Clyde remains an historic gold rush town

Positioned within the beautiful landscape of Central Otago, Clyde is one of the areas many draw cards. Its high street is virtually a living museum of a time past, with historic plaques a plenty providing the visitor with information as to who built and lived in each of the properties.

One of the many historic cottages in Clydes main street

It’s also home to a selection of very nice accommodation and dining options which to be honest do seem to befit such a prosperous little town.

One of the many accommodaton options in Clyde

Oliver’s is the largest on the block spanning a small hotel, award winning restaurant, bar, and café. I popped in for lunch at the café and couldn’t help but look around such a lovely place. Their homemade caramel slices are quite a treat too baked at their onsite bakery.

Across the road is the old Bank of New Zealand now another bustling café and bistro with plenty of outdoor seating. You can imagine in times past gold panners turning up at the door here hoping to strike it rich.

The old Bank of New Zealand building in Clyde, now a bustling cafe and bistro

There is also the Lord Clyde Hotel which offers comfortable accommodation to enjoy close to town. Adjacent to the Lord Clyde is a bike hire shop that sells all the bike gear you need as getting around on two wheels is one of this area's main draws. The Otago Rail Trail starts or ends in Clyde but there are many other trails in this area of different capabilities that are well worth taking the time to enjoy. My own bike ride took me across the old Clyde Bridge and by the banks of the River Clyde.

It was an easy track to follow, mainly flat with great views following the riverbanks.

View from the cycle track down the river

A lot of the track was through the forest that grew alongside the river although there were relics of old gold times past and a few great spots to stop for a picnic or morning tea. It was a popular ride with several others enjoying the journey which ends at the Alexandra Bridge. As you pass the cricket club look out for the match that is being played, someone has a sense of humour!

Crossing over the bridge brings you to Alexandra itself a good place to stop off for a well earnt drink and bite to eat.

You could return the same way back to Clyde but there is also the option to do as I did and join the last section of the Otago Rail Trail which takes you past the old station and along a long wide track surrounded by vineyards and farms. There are numerous places to stop and stay on route and even a winery offering tastings should you wish to wet your palate.

Dan taking a break at a coffee house in Alexandria

I decided to continue back to Clyde and call in at the Merchant of Clyde which is one of the cafes on the main street. It has an outdoor area and of course those delicious caramel slices….