Discover the Best Horseback Riding Trails Across Australia
Seeing Australia on horseback is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. Here are some of the different tour options you can choose from and the trails they traverse.
1. Spring Flowers of Australia
Explore the best of the High country as you ride across Pretty Valley where the Bogong brumbies, free-roaming feral horses in Australia, make their pastures. Cantering to the top of Mount Fainter, you’ll have a stunning view of Mount Feathertop across the West Kiewa River. Stay overnight in beautiful camps under the stars with a warm campfire and a meal prepared with fresh local produce. Descend into the Kiewa Valley through the Big Hill Cattle Track. This tour will allow you to see mountain tops, historic huts, wild rivers, hidden camps, and more.
2. New Year's Australian Adventure
For the New Year’s Eve experience of a lifetime, book this tour and ring in the new year in the breathtaking terrain of the Bogong High Plains. On New Year's Day, take a refreshing swim beneath a waterfall in the clear waters of High Plains Creek. Enjoy delicious campfire meals and meet the wild horses in the area. If camping, conquering a mountain, and exploring a beautiful valley sound like your ideal holiday, this tour has the right trails for you.
3. Mount Bogong Australian Adventure
When you embark on this adventure, its trails will take you all over the Victorian High Country, from the fertile valley of the Kiewa River to rich mountain forests to a gorgeous camp perched on the edge of a stream. Relax by the campfire and watch the smoke stream into the night sky. Awake in the morning to find the landscape covered in a beautiful mist. Travel from the lush rainforest to the snow gum woodlands and open herb fields of the high plains. The culmination of this tour is among the tree line of Mount Bogong, Victoria’s highest mountain, where you’ll venture to the highest part accessible by horse.
4. Australian Mountains and Meadows Adventure
Over the course of several days, you can ride through the high country, exploring Mount Fainter. One of the campsites on this tour is Bogong Jack’s Hideout. This hut is rumored to be the hideout of “the gentleman bushranger” Bogong Jack, who used to round up cattle illegally—and later steal horses—brand them, and sell them as his own in the 1800s. Some believe the area is haunted and report a feeling of unease—the morning mist and ghost gum trees certainly add to the feeling. The tour moves on to explore the mountains and meadows of the surrounding area.
Have you ever wanted to take a trail through the clouds? One of the paths on this tour will take you through the clouds to the “mountain dreaming place.” Here you can forget your troubles and daydream in the arms of Mother Nature. On this tour, you’ll find a blend of the High Country horse heritage and modern comforts and cuisine. As winter departs and spring takes its hold on the environment, you’ll be able to dive into the rich history of the land, learning about the indigenous peoples, mountain cavemen, gold seekers, and adventurers who inhabited the area.
Just an hour away from Melbourne, you can get away in the scenic Yarra Valley, one of the world’s premier wine-growing regions, the oldest wine region in Victoria. Enjoy the local fare and taste the local wine. By day, you’ll explore the countryside on horseback, and by night, you’ll unwind in one of the charming and luxurious huts. See one of the oldest oak trees in the valley, views that you won’t believe, and the soaring Wedgetail Eagles.
7. Dressage, Wine, and Australian Nature
If you’re hoping to improve your horse-riding skills and see the beautiful sights the Land Down Under has to offer, this is the perfect tour. Participate in riding lessons, setting personal goals and working toward achieving them throughout your trip. Explore local sights and attractions, including delightful restaurants, a relaxing spa where you can watch the peaceful horses, a local winery, a native sanctuary, lunch and paddle boats at Emerald Lake, and a nearby national park.
8. Australia Classical Dressage Getaway
Do you want to enhance your knowledge of the traditional methods of dressage? Experience this dressage riding retreat, which focuses on fundamental horsemanship abilities and is tailored to your individual needs. Learn in a covered arena and enjoy top-notch school horses, entertaining animals, and serene gardens. And don’t forget the local attractions and delicious meals. This program is perfect for riders of all levels.
If you’re looking for a peaceful dressage retreat in the beauty of the Yarra Ranges, look no further. This two-night getaway welcomes all riders. You’ll explore the stunning Yarra Valley, relish a relaxing massage at the spa, and improve your riding skills. As the sun sets on the surrounding hills, enjoy the song of parrots and kookaburras. While you’re here, you can visit numerous wineries, hike in Ferntree Gully National Park, or see Puffing Billy, Victoria’s only operational steam train.
Tips and Considerations for Horse Riding in Australia
When it comes to Australian horseback riding, there are a few things to consider.
What should riders consider when preparing for a horseback riding trip in Australia?
You’ll want to consider your riding experience, the weather, and possible jetlag, depending on how far you’re coming from.
If you’re a beginner or haven’t ridden in a while, you may consider taking a riding class or two before your trip. Having some familiarity with the basics of riding will only help you as you ride through the landscapes of Australia.
Research what the typical weather is like in the area for the time of year you plan to go and pack accordingly. It is often best to pack layers so you can adjust if the weather changes throughout the day.
If you’re traveling to Australia from another country, you’ll likely experience jetlag when you arrive. Do what you can to rest on your flights and once you arrive, try to stay awake until nighttime. This will help you adapt to the time zone.
Is horseback riding suitable for beginners in Australia?
Yes! The routes in Australia have a wide range of difficulty levels. Tours like the Australia Dressage Holiday and the Australia Rustic Holiday were made for beginners.
When is the best time of year to go horseback riding in Australia?
The ideal time of year to go horseback riding in Australia is during fall (March-May) or spring (September-November). The weather is mild during these seasons—perfect for riding!
What are the safety precautions for horseback riding in Australia?
To ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip, listen to your tour guide’s instructions. They know the area and will help you avoid any dangerous paths. First aid and emergency communications are included in your tour. Always wear your riding helmet and ensure your riding gear is equipped properly.
Conclusion
Australia’s trails have so much to offer—mountainous paths in the high country, winding routes along a river, relaxing rides through peaceful valleys, and more. To see all that awaits you in Australia, check out our catalog of tours.
Book your tour with Horse Tours Club, where you’ll find a global presence and expertise in equine tours that will make your booking experience simple and easy.
