<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/thesouth-2a4d.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> For those who prefer their trails scenic, soulful, and not overly engineered — the Central South has plenty worth pedalling. </paragraph> <paragraph> Start with <bold>Christchurch’s Port Hills</bold>. The <bold>Rapaki Track</bold> or <bold>Summit Road</bold> gives you coast-to-alps views with enough gradient to make the coffee taste better afterwards. Local tip: sunrise is something else up here. </paragraph> <paragraph> Further inland, <bold>Castle Hill</bold> offers surreal limestone boulders and quiet alpine roads that feel made for two wheels. You’ll likely have the place to yourself — apart from the odd climber or sheep. </paragraph> <paragraph> On the <bold>West Coast</bold>, the <bold>West Coast Wilderness Trail</bold> mixes gravel, bush, rivers, and history. It’s the full package — swing bridges, glow worm tunnels, and zero traffic lights. Take your time. Or don’t. Just enjoy </paragraph> <paragraph> Near <bold>Kaikōura</bold>, the <bold>Mt Fyffe Track</bold> is a steady, satisfying climb if you’re into gravel and lung work. Bonus: panoramic views that don’t feel real. </paragraph> <paragraph> And in <bold>Hurunui</bold>, the <bold>St James Cycle Trail</bold> near <bold>Hanmer Springs</bold> is wild and wide — high-country riding through valleys, rivers, and tussock flats. Wrap it up with a soak in the hot pools. You’ve earned it. </paragraph> <paragraph> None of these are technical. All of them are memorable. Bring a mate. Bring snacks. Ride slow. Ride happy. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">Central South Island</item> <item key="Itinerary">Half Day to Multi-Day</item> <item key="Distance">Varies (Multi-region)</item> <item key="Hours">Always Open</item> <item key="Price">Free (Trails)</item> </list>