Top 10 horse riding holidays in Australia
Ever dreamed about riding through the high country of Victoria? …. Or galloping across the beautiful beaches of Australia?
We have collated a list of some of the most amazing places across Australia where you can admire the amazing countryside from horseback.
Whether you're a casual rider or an experienced equestrian, these 10 horse riding holidays offer unforgettable experiences exploring Australia’s natural beauty on horseback.
- Hunter Valley Horses – Hunter Valley, NSW
Why It’s Perfect
Located in the picturesque Hunter Valley, Hunter Valley Horses offers riders the chance to explore one of Australia's most renowned wine regions on horseback. Riders can take in stunning views of the Broken Back Ranges, ride through vineyards, and traverse scenic bushland. It’s the ideal holiday for those who want to combine their love for riding with a taste of wine country. The region's peaceful trails and breathtaking vistas make it a perfect escape for horse lovers looking for both adventure and relaxation.
Accommodation
In terms of accommodations, the Hunter Valley offers a range of options to suit all tastes and budgets. Visitors can choose from luxurious vineyard resorts, quaint bed and breakfasts, or charming country cottages. Many of these options are set within working vineyards, allowing guests to indulge in wine tasting and gourmet dining, further enhancing the experience. For a more rustic retreat, camping options are available in nearby bushlands for those looking to fully immerse themselves in nature.
Unique Features
What sets Hunter Valley Horses apart is its unique combination of horse riding and wine tourism. The business offers a variety of trail rides suitable for all levels, including one-hour bushland rides, 90-minute vineyard tours, and private sunrise or sunset rides for those seeking something extra special. They even offer romantic couples’ rides, complete with a picnic amidst the vineyards. For an added touch of adventure, their guided tours provide a chance to spot native wildlife, including kangaroos, making it a quintessential Australian riding experience
Riding Capability
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, Hunter Valley Horses caters to all skill levels. Their friendly guides are experienced in making first-time riders feel at ease, while more experienced riders can opt for private or extended trail rides that offer a more challenging experience. This makes it an excellent choice for families, couples, and groups looking for a well-rounded, scenic horse riding holiday.
With its combination of stunning landscapes, beautiful horses, and proximity to gourmet food and wine, Hunter Valley Horses is a must-visit for any equestrian enthusiast looking to explore the beauty of the Hunter Valley on horseback.
Check out Hunter Valley Horses here - https://www.huntervalleyhorses.com.au/
- Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures – Central Coast, NSW
Why It’s Perfect
Glenworth Valley is one of the largest horse-riding centre’s in Australia, offering over 3,000 acres of pristine wilderness for riders to explore. Located just an hour from Sydney, it's the ideal getaway for anyone looking for both outdoor adventure and convenience. Riders can journey through stunning valleys, alongside rivers, and into lush bushland.
Accommodation
The property offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury glamping tents, charming cabins, and riverside campsites. For those who prefer a more rustic experience, bush camping is also available, allowing riders to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.
Unique Features
One of the standout features of Glenworth Valley is the option for free-range horse riding, where experienced riders can explore the property without a guide, creating a sense of freedom and adventure. This is a rare offering in Australia and makes Glenworth Valley an attractive destination for confident riders looking to explore at their own pace.
Riding Capability
Glenworth Valley is ideal for riders of all levels. Beginners can join guided tours, while advanced riders have the unique opportunity to ride independently across the property.
Check out Glenworth Valley outdoor adventures here - https://glenworth.com.au/horse-riding/
- Watsons Mountain Country trail rides – Mansfield, VIC
Why It’s Perfect
Watsons Mountain Country Trail Rides, located near Mansfield in Victoria, offers an authentic High-Country riding experience. Known for its breathtaking views, rich history, and connection to the famous Man from Snowy River movie, it’s an ideal destination for those wanting to immerse themselves in Australia’s rugged mountain landscapes. The rides take you through diverse terrains, from rolling hills and valleys to river crossings and high-altitude plains, making it a perfect adventure for any rider looking for a bit of everything.
Accommodation
Watsons provides a variety of accommodation options, from rustic bunkhouses to more comfortable lodges, depending on the length and type of ride. Guests on multi-day rides can expect to stay at Howqua Lodge, a cozy mountain retreat with hot showers and campfire dinners, or in basic bush camps for a more rugged experience. Whether you prefer comfort or the wilderness, Watsons offers flexibility for all riders.
Unique Features
One of the most exciting aspects of Watsons Mountain Country Trail Rides is the ability to visit iconic locations from The Man from Snowy River. Riders can experience the thrill of seeing the famous “jump scene” spot or riding up to 360-degree views of the Victorian High Country. The tours also include opportunities to spot native Australian wildlife such as kangaroos, wallabies, and wedge-tailed eagles.
Riding Capability
Watsons caters to all levels of riders, from beginners to experienced equestrians. Short, 1–3-hour rides are perfect for novices, while multi-day rides, such as the 5-day “Man from Snowy River” tour, offer a more challenging and immersive experience for seasoned riders.
With its combination of historic landmarks, wildlife, and stunning landscapes, Watsons Mountain Country Trail Rides is an unmissable destination for those looking to explore the Victorian High Country on horseback.
Check out Watsons Mountain Country trail rides here - https://watsonstrailrides.com.au/#Welcome
- Cape Tribulation Horse Rides – Cape Tribulation, QLD
Why It’s Perfect
For a truly tropical riding experience, Cape Tribulation Horse Rides offers unique tours along the pristine beaches and rainforests of Cape Tribulation, where the Daintree Rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef. This is one of the only places in the world where you can ride through two UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Accommodation
Riders can choose to stay in eco-lodges, beachfront cabins, or rainforest retreats that provide an immersive tropical experience. These eco-friendly accommodations often feature stunning views of the surrounding jungle and beaches, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of riding.
Unique Features
Cape Tribulation Horse Rides offers the rare opportunity to ride along deserted beaches, often with no one else in sight. You can even take your horse swimming in the Coral Sea or explore the lush rainforest trails. The blend of tropical rainforest and sandy coastline makes this destination truly unique and unforgettable.
Riding Capability
Suitable for all levels of riders. Beginners can enjoy relaxing beach rides, while more experienced riders can take on the challenging rainforest trails.
Check out Cape Tribulation Horse Rides - https://www.capetribhorserides.com.au/
- El Questro Homestead – Kimberley, WA
Why It’s Perfect
Nestled in the rugged beauty of the Kimberley in Western Australia, El Questro Homestead offers an unparalleled luxury outback experience. With nearly 700,000 acres of remote wilderness to explore, guests can enjoy breathtaking horse treks through some of Australia’s most pristine landscapes. The contrast between the refined luxury of the homestead and the wild, untamed terrain makes this destination a truly unique horse-riding holiday.
Accommodation
Guests at El Questro stay in luxurious suites and rooms, perched above the stunning Chamberlain Gorge. Accommodations are limited to 20 guests, ensuring an intimate, exclusive experience. Rooms are beautifully designed with private decks, outdoor baths, and sweeping views of the Kimberley wilderness, making it an ideal retreat after a day of horseback riding and exploring the outback.
Unique Features
One of the standout features of El Questro is the range of personalised experiences. From horseback tours through remote outback trails to helicopter rides and sunset dinners on escarpments, every moment is designed to immerse guests in the beauty of the Kimberley. Riders can explore rugged terrain, spot native wildlife, and visit secret picnic spots in the wilderness. The adventure is complemented by luxury amenities like the Zebedee natural thermal springs and gourmet dining under the stars.
Riding Capability
Horse riding at El Questro caters to all experience levels, from beginners to advanced riders. The trails are designed to provide a true outback experience, allowing guests to connect with nature and enjoy the vast expanse of the Kimberley wilderness.
This combination of luxury, adventure, and unmatched natural beauty makes El Questro Homestead a top choice for an unforgettable horse-riding holiday.
Check out El Questro Homestead here - https://elquestro.com.au/stay/the-homestead/homestead-rooms
- Diggers Rest Station – Kimberley, Western Australia
Why It’s Perfect
Located in the spectacular Kimberley region of Western Australia, Diggers Rest Station offers a truly authentic outback horse riding holiday. This remote cattle station immerses riders in the rugged beauty of the Australian bush, with access to 700,000 acres of vast landscapes. Guests will ride alongside experienced cattlemen and explore the iconic Kimberley terrain, which is rich in history and natural beauty, making it perfect for riders looking for a combination of adventure and cultural immersion.
Accommodation
Guests at Diggers Rest can choose from rustic bush huts, glamping tents, or the homestead’s comfortable bunkhouse. Each accommodation option is designed to enhance the outback experience while offering comfort after a long day in the saddle. Meals include hearty country fare, perfect for refuelling after a day of cattle work or exploring the bush. This unique station stay combines the ruggedness of a working cattle station with the comfort and hospitality typical of outback Australia.
Unique Features
Diggers Rest Station offers station-based riding holidays where guests can experience daily life on a working cattle property. The week-long riding holidays are designed for intermediate to advanced riders, featuring full days in the saddle exploring the expansive station. Guests have the opportunity to participate in cattle mustering, enjoy sunset rides, and campfire evenings, creating a memorable outback experience. With the Kimberley’s breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife, riders can take in the sights of boab trees, waterholes, and remote bush tracks.
Riding Capability
Diggers Rest Station is best suited for intermediate to advanced riders who are comfortable walking, trotting, and cantering through the bush. Riders can expect to spend four to six hours per day in the saddle, making this an ideal choice for those seeking a more challenging and immersive experience. Beginners can enjoy shorter guided rides, but the station’s longer treks and cattle work are designed for more experienced equestrians.
For those looking for an authentic Australian outback experience, Diggers Rest Station provides a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and station life.
Check out Digger’s Rest Station here - https://diggersreststation.com.au/
7.Chum Creek Horse Rides & Huts – Yarra Valley, VIC
Why It’s Perfect
Chum Creek Horse Rides & Huts, located in the beautiful Yarra Valley, offers an exceptional horse-riding holiday experience that combines adventure with luxury. Just an hour's drive from Melbourne, this property is a true rider’s paradise, featuring 136 acres of scenic pastures and 83,000 acres of adjacent state forest, with endless riding trails. Whether you're looking to explore the Australian bush or indulge in a winery ride, Chum Creek has options for all tastes.
Accommodation
Chum Creek offers rustic yet luxurious accommodations in their famous Chum Creek Huts. These huts come with cozy amenities like fireplaces, outdoor verandas, and even a Japanese soaking tub. One of the huts was a national finalist in the "Most Romantic" category, perfect for couples seeking a unique getaway. Each hut offers a private, serene space with beautiful views of the Yarra Valley, making it an ideal retreat after a day of riding
Unique Features
What makes Chum Creek Horse Rides stand out are its wine tasting trail rides, offering a blend of equestrian adventure and gourmet experiences. Riders can enjoy a scenic 2.5-hour ride through the Yarra Valley bush, complete with a wine-tasting stop at Tokar Estate. This combination of horseback riding and wine tourism is a unique offering that allows riders to immerse themselves in both nature and local culture.
Riding Capability
Chum Creek caters to all riding levels, from beginners to advanced equestrians. The rides are private or in small groups, ensuring a more personalised experience. Experienced riders can enjoy cantering through the trails, while beginners are given plenty of instruction and support to build their confidence.
For those looking to combine luxury, adventure, and scenic beauty, Chum Creek Horse Rides & Huts offers an unforgettable horse-riding holiday in the heart of Victoria’s wine country.
Check out Chum Creek Horse Rides and Huts here - https://chumcreek.net.au/
- Equathon Horse Riding Adventures – Sunshine Coast, QLD
Why It’s Perfect
Equathon, operated by Olympic equestrian Alex Watson, offers luxurious horse-riding experiences along the stunning beaches of the Sunshine Coast. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful beach ride or a customised private tour, Equathon delivers a premium riding holiday.
Accommodation
Guests can stay in luxury beach resorts or boutique farm stays, where gourmet dining and spa treatments add to the experience. For those looking for a more intimate adventure, private guided tours and accommodation packages are also available.
Unique Features
Equathon offers personalised and private tours, allowing riders to enjoy one-on-one experiences with their horses and guides. Sunset beach rides are a highlight, as well as bespoke itineraries for families or couples.
Riding Capability
Equathon caters to all riding levels, from beginners to advanced. The private nature of the tours allows for customization, ensuring a tailored experience regardless of skill level.
Check out Equathon here - https://equathon.com/
- Bullo River Station – Northern Territory
Why It’s Perfect
Located on a massive 400,000-acre cattle station in the Northern Territory, Bullo River Station offers a quintessential Australian outback experience. Situated near the Victoria and Bullo Rivers, this remote luxury station provides guests with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the day-to-day operations of a working cattle property while enjoying top-tier accommodations. The vast landscapes are filled with breathtaking river systems, escarpments, and ancient Aboriginal rock art, making it an ideal getaway for those who want both adventure and relaxation.
Accommodation
Bullo River Station offers comfortable, well-appointed guest rooms within the homestead, each with its own private en-suite. The communal areas provide a cozy space for guests to gather, dine, and swap stories of the day’s adventures. Gourmet meals are shared at the homestead, featuring locally sourced ingredients that highlight the best of Australian cuisine. The property’s remote setting ensures a peaceful retreat, with the luxury of modern amenities combined with the charm of rustic outback life.
Unique Features
Bullo River Station allows guests to engage in authentic cattle station activities, such as cattle mustering and yard work, under the guidance of experienced stockmen. For a more relaxed experience, guests can explore the landscape on guided horse rides or enjoy a 4WD or helicopter tour across the diverse outback terrain. From saltwater crocodile spotting along the riverbanks to exploring ancient Aboriginal rock art, there’s no shortage of adventure at Bullo River Station. The station also offers barramundi fishing, birdwatching, and scenic flights over waterfalls and escarpments.
Riding Capability
The horseback riding experience at Bullo River Station is designed to suit a range of riders, though the focus is on intermediate to advanced riders who wish to participate in cattle mustering. Beginner riders can enjoy more leisurely guided rides through the sprawling landscapes, with plenty of opportunities to take in the scenery and wildlife.
For an authentic outback experience with luxury accommodations and a range of immersive activities, Bullo River Station is a must-visit destination for horse lovers and adventurers alike.
Check out Bullo River station here - https://www.bulloriver.com.au/
- Southern Cross Horse Treks – Port Macquarie, NSW
Why It’s Perfect
Southern Cross Horse Treks, located in the scenic region of Port Macquarie, offers multi-day horse riding adventures for intermediate to advanced riders. Their beach rides are part of an immersive experience that includes gallops along some of the most unspoiled and deserted stretches of coastline in New South Wales. The carefully trained Arabian horses provide a thrilling yet safe ride, perfect for those looking to combine adventure with relaxation on the beach. Riders can also explore hinterland forests and rural landscapes during their stay.
Accommodation
Southern Cross Horse Treks offers on-site farm-stay accommodation, creating a cozy retreat for riders at the end of the day. The week-long, all-inclusive riding retreats are designed for small groups, ensuring personalised attention and a comfortable, laid-back atmosphere. Meals are provided, with a focus on home-cooked, healthy food, complementing the physical demands of the riding experience.
Unique Features
What sets Southern Cross Horse Treks apart is its emphasis on long-distance treks, perfect for experienced riders who want to spend more time in the saddle. The beach gallop is often the highlight of the tour, offering a chance to canter along the shores of one of Australia’s most pristine beaches. Riders are treated to stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, with opportunities to ride through forests, farmlands, and hilltops. The Arabian horses are well-suited to these long rides, providing a smooth, responsive, and enjoyable riding experience.
Riding Capability
Southern Cross Horse Treks cater to intermediate to advanced riders only, as the beach and trail rides require a higher level of riding experience. Guests must be confident in their ability to walk, trot, and canter for extended periods. The beach rides are part of multi-day bookings, which ensures plenty of time to enjoy a variety of landscapes while bonding with the horses.
For experienced riders seeking a unique blend of beach, forest, and countryside, Southern Cross Horse Treks offers an unforgettable horse-riding adventure in the heart of New South Wales.
Check out Southern Cross Horse Treks here - https://www.horsetreks.com.au/
Australia is home to a wide variety of horse-riding holiday destinations, each offering a unique experience tailored to different skill levels and preferences. Whether you're looking for beachside rides, mountain adventures, or Outback treks, these top 10 options offer exceptional opportunities to explore Australia on horseback. From luxury stays to rugged campouts, there's something for every equestrian enthusiast.
