The Vines Village Base
Explore Marlborough is based at The Vines Village, located at 193 Rapaura Road in the heart of the Rapaura wine country, widely regarded as the epicentre of the Marlborough wine region. Just 10 minutes from Blenheim’s town centre, it’s easy to find and even easier to fall in love with from the moment you arrive. Arriving is a breeze, simply head to 193 Rapaura Road, Rapaura. There’s heaps of parking on site, including plenty of space for campervans, motorhomes and large vehicles, so no need to stress about where to leave the van before you hit the vines.
This is your home base for the day. Whether you’re joining a guided tour, hiring bikes for a self-guided adventure, or picking up your gear and map before heading out on your own, everything starts and ends right here. Our team will meet you, get you kitted out, run you through the day, and make sure you’re set for an unforgettable experience among the vines.
The location couldn’t be better placed. With more than 15 wineries within just 3 kilometres of the Village, you’re dropped right into the action the moment you saddle up. The flat, easy terrain of the Wairau Valley makes it ideal for cyclists of all ages and fitness levels, with winery after winery just a short, scenic ride away along quiet country roads.
And if you’re wondering how close you are to the big names, Cloudy Bay’s iconic cellar door on Jacksons Road is just a 15 minute ride away (the closest base to this gem), making it one of the most popular stops on any Explore Marlborough tour.
The Vines Village is a small collection of boutique stores showcasing some of the best of Marlborough. You will find a cafe, deli and gift store, merino store, gallery, Whitehaven cellar door, and a gin distillery, whiskey and beer bar. It has a great outdoor area to sit quietly with a coffee and a children’s area if you are visiting with family. It quite simply is the perfect place to start and finish your wine tour.
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The Blenheim CBD Base
Our Blenheim CBD base is located right in the heart of town at the Wine + Food Experience Marlborough, 42 Alfred Street, a stunning riverside venue on the banks of the Taylor River, just steps from Blenheim’s main strip.
This is the perfect starting point if you’re staying in town, walking in off the street, or arriving fresh off a cruise. No need to drive out to wine country first, we come to you. Whether you’re a hotel guest looking to kick off the day with a bike hire, a walk-in visitor wanting to get out amongst the vines, or a Whale Trail rider needing to get set up and sorted, this is your launchpad.
Everything you need is right here. Pick up your bike, grab your gear, get your route sorted, and you’re pedalling into Marlborough wine country within minutes. Our team will have you ready to go with all the local knowledge, maps, and equipment needed for an unforgettable day.
And when you roll back in at the end of the day, you couldn’t ask for a better place to finish. The Wine + Food Experience is one of Blenheim’s most exciting venues, bringing together over 50 of Marlborough’s finest wineries and local food producers under one roof. Taste your way through the region’s iconic Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and more, or settle in for a full cellar door experience paired with fresh Marlborough oysters, local cheeses, crayfish, or a beautifully curated platter. It’s the perfect end to a perfect day on the bike.
And it’s only getting better, a stunning new boutique hotel is currently under construction right here on site, set to make this one of Blenheim’s most exciting hospitality destinations. Watch this space.
Centrally located, easy to find, and right where the action is, the Blenheim CBD base makes exploring Marlborough easier than ever, wherever you’re staying.