A Chat With Blue Derby Pods Ride

Blue Derby Pods Ride has created a one-of-a-kind adventure and luxury experience in Derby, Tasmania. The multi-day adventure mountain biking experience paired with unique and exclusive accommodation Pods is the winner of many Australian and Tasmanian tourism awards, and it is not hard to see why! We spoke to founders, Steve and Tara Howell about the inception of Blue Derby Pods Ride, connecting to Tasmania and becoming ’flow seekers.’

Where did the idea of combining physical activity, adventure and luxury accommodation arise from?

In short, passion. Steve and I have always loved adventuring, especially in Tasmania. However, we always adventured a little differently from the 'normal' mountain biker. We would ride incredible places with backpacks filled with Tasmanian gourmet food, before finding some quirky little place to stay for the night. We used to think, surely others would like this! In addition to passion, we also did see an emerging market in luxury adventure mountain biking.

You talk about 'experience the flow’ and your vision is to inspire ‘flow seekers’ – what do you mean by this?

'Flow' is a term used a lot in mountain biking, but for us, it is those moments when you think, 'now... this is what life is about!' Our purpose is to give our guests a moment of great realization during our experience (or a moment in flow). We believe if we can do this, well we'll hopefully inspire them to chase these moments in their everyday lives or become a 'flow seeker'.

What do you love about Tasmania and why is it such a great place to run your experience?

What is not to love about Tasmania?! For us, the natural landscape is something you just can't go past. Riding through gullies of dense man ferns and towering myrtle forest really doesn't get better.

Why is sustainable living and respect for the environment important to you?

Steve and I believe that if you aren't operating a business and living sustainably then you aren't running a good business. Leaving your environment in a poorer condition then when you started is not acceptable on so many levels.

How do you use Tasmanian products, such as Tasman Sea Salt, in your food and accommodation?

In so many ways! The most common being as a delicious option as an addition to any of our dishes. It really brings the flavour out of everything!