Originally brought to life by Australia’s most famous bush poet, Banjo Patterson, the High Country has a mystique and majesty about her that is truly intoxicating. It’s home to the mountain horsemen: dressed in rabbit felt hats, cloaked in drizabones, traversing rugged, unforgiving country to graze their cattle while contending with extreme weather conditions.
There is something deeply romantic about Victoria’s High Country and there is no better way to discover this region than from the back of a plucky mountain pony. This pack horse ride is centered around the Howqua Valley, a national park home to abundant wildlife and supported by the pristine, clear-running Howqua River. With over 60 river crossings on day two of the ride, the river is the heart of the valley, and you’ll never tire of traversing it. There are plenty of short canter bursts on offer between river crossings, and the chance to swim your horse bareback in summer.
The regional cuisine on this ride is of gourmet standard. Expect to be completely overwhelmed by the meals that are prepared and served by gastronome Wendy Jubb-Stoney throughout your two-night stay at Stockyard Creek, a pioneer homestead overlooking a lagoon.
The Howqua River Ride is narrated with the history of the pioneers who originally settled in the region and you’ll find yourseld riding past remnants of the 1890s gold rush. The colourful history of the Snowy River region adds another dimension to this dynamic ride.
Fast Facts
- Horse Breed:A variety of breeds from Stock Horses to Quarter Horses.
- Pace:The pace can vary from a walk right through to a canter.
- Weight Limit:Maximum of 100kg/220lbs
- Type of tack:A mix of traditional saddles from Australian stock to English dressage saddles.
- Seasons:November through to March
- Group size:Minimum of 2 and a maximum of 10 guests
- Time in Saddle:5 hours of riding on days 1, 2 and 4 and 3 hours on day 5 and a rest day on day 3 where riding is optional.
- Riding Ability:Suitable for beginner to advanced riders Not sure what your riding experience is? Watch THIS video to find out.
- Accommodation:Quality, comfortable twin share accommodation at the River House and rustic, pioneer rooms with plenty of character at Stockyard Creek homestead. Keep in mind, guests will be sharing with up to four in a room at Stockyard Creek unless paying single supplement.
- Ride Length:5 days, 4 nights
- Inclusions:
The price includes meals, accommodation, riding, and round-trip transfers to and from Melbourne Airport (specific arrival/departure times apply).
- Exclusions:
The price does not include flights or travel insurance (compulsory).
DEPARTURE DATES & RATES
NEW! Secure your saddle seat NOW with a 10% deposit - as part of our 10x 10% payment plan!Departing | Finishing | Availability | Total | |||
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October 24, 2022 | October 28, 2022 | SOLD OUT! |
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November 28, 2022 | December 2, 2022 | SOLD OUT! |
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January 30, 2023 | February 3, 2023 | Limited |
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February 6, 2023 | February 10, 2023 | Limited |
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February 20, 2023 | February 24, 2023 | SOLD OUT! |
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WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
The price includes meals, accommodation, riding, and round-trip transfers to and from Melbourne Airport (specific arrival/departure times apply).
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
The price does not include flights or travel insurance (compulsory).
Accepted payment is by credit or debit card only. There is a 2% surcharge on all card payments. Click HERE to read our recommendations on which cards are best to use to avoid international transaction fees.
WHY IS THE PRICE QUOTED IN AUD?
With our riding destinations, the currency is dictated by our ride partner in that country. Therefore due to fluctuating exchange rates we have to quote in the same currency.
Itinerary
Expand AllCollapse All*Please note, this is a suggested itinerary only and subject to change at the discretion of your guides due to weather and other influencing factors.

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Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Transfer Information
What our valued Globetrotters say about The Howqua River Ride

Catherine Packer
‘I absolutely loved this ride! The only bad thing about it was that it came to an end. I rode Cool Daddy – such a little trooper. Michael matched horses to riders perfectly and even after spending a week dealing with a bunch of nutty women, he was still ready with a smile and a terrible dad joke! I love that he is so community minded. The ride not only supports his business, but other local businesses, too. I was very happy with the food – the 8 course degustation dinner was the absolute highlight. I barely ate for 2 days after we got back, we were so well fed! I would recommend this ride to anyone.’

Maree Skinner
‘The Howqua River Ride – oh my goodness! After many many river crossings and around 75kms of mountains and goat tracks, we finally made it to the jump scene from the Man From Snowy River – the camera doesn’t do it justice. Thanks to Michael for the amazing properties to explore on wonderful horses – my beautiful Leah was a rockstar. Huge thanks to Karen, our fabulous guide, chef, and all round Wonder Woman. And as always, thanks to Kate and Laura for making these dreams a reality. Isn’t the Globetrotting life just the best!’

Bronwen Mullany
‘Recently I heard the quote, “The only way to make something amazing happen, is to make something amazing happen” and this trip was living proof. It was my first Globetrotting ride and I do not regret it one bit. It is scary at times to book something with strangers without having a friend with you, but this was the most memorable experience I’ve ever had. I’ve ridden horses on small trail rides and in the arena, but this ride was so freeing, with unforgettable views of the Victorian High Country. The horse that I rode, Rex, was the sweetest boy in the world. Myself and all the riders agreed that Michael, the host, did an exceptional job of matching us with the perfect horse. He was very knowledgeable of the terrain, history and horses. I have never had such a good guide. The accommodation was very peaceful, clean, homey and well set up. I am never going to forget this trip or the amazing animals and people I met. I’m already looking into my next Globetrotting ride!’

Bernadette Grafton
‘I was fortunate to grab a spare saddle seat for this ride and I couldn’t have been happier – from start to finish it was amazing. Our guide Karen made us all feel at ease, and her knowledge of the region and its history was very informative. All the staff ensured everyone had a good time, and Michael kept us entertained over dinner with stories of the High Country. I rode a Stock Horse called Scarlett, a beautiful, responsive mare with a gentle nature, and very surefooted over the river crossings. The accommodation was beyond expectations and all the meals were delicious and plentiful. Each day we had cooked breakfasts, lunches of meat and salads, and dinner was a full cooked meal. The eight course degustation dinner was simply amazing. I really enjoyed the experience and look forward to completing another Globetrotting ride in August.’

Kristy Burke
‘This was an experience of a lifetime and one I will cherish forever. The accommodation was amazing! Gorgeous country settings and very comfortable. I was really happy with the food, too – the eight course degustation menu was divine. My horse Bonnie was absolutely gorgeous in both temperament and looks. I trusted her completely and we formed a lifetime bond. I was so sad to say goodbye. As for the guides, Karen was exceptional! Extremely knowledgeable of the local history, an incredible horsewoman and she made me feel extremely welcome. As I was a beginner rider, Karen gave me plenty of encouragement and I was astounded how much my riding improved over the five days. I am now confident at cantering. Michael was also fantastic and share some great stories. I am so thankful I took the plunge and did this trip solo! I met some amazing strangers who I now call friends.’

Yuen Chang
‘The Howqua River Ride was the longest ride I’ve ever done and I loved every moment of it! Each day of riding was different, with varied terrain and trails. The scenery was stunning; I especially enjoyed the river crossings. The food was fantastic: delicious cheese platters, scrumptious dinners, yummy desserts… luckily I brought track pants! Michael and Charlotte were fantastic, attentive and knowledgeable guides. Michael paired each rider superbly with their horses – everyone was very happy with their match. I rode Ozzie – the most affectionate and cheeky horse I’ve ever met, with the most entertaining personality. It was a wonderful way to spend five days exploring the region, and I wouldn’t hesitate to do it all over again.’

Sheridan Attard
‘An amazing experience with like-minded people. We had so many laughs, good food, the best scenery, and great horses! I was given a part Arabian and he was a trooper! The hosts Michael and Karen and everyone involved were fantastic. They had a great sense of humour, were kind, loved the horses and took care of everyone’s needs. Every day was beautiful, but being high on the mountain and seeing the jump scene from The Man from Snowy River was especially great! We had a very memorable, amazing time.’

Liesa Tuchen
‘I recently went on my first Globetrotting adventure as a single traveller and absolutely loved every minute of it! I felt in good hands right from the start as everything was easy and well organised, both by Globetrotting before departure and by Michael and his team on the ride itself.
As a single traveller I was a little bit nervous about, well, doing it on my own, but any concern was gone as soon as I met Michael, Karen and of course the rest of the group. Everybody was there for the same reason: having a good time and enjoying the world on the back of a horse. Michael and Karen gave us their hospitality, knowledge, lots of laughter, good advice and patience, and made it a very personal experience. So if you’re a single traveller and worried about going by yourself, there’s no reason to worry AT ALL.
To sum it up, 10 out of 10! I literally have nothing negative to say and hope everyone taking the trip in the future will enjoy it as much as I did. Thanks to Michael, Karen and Beth for making it so special!’

Sara Bessell
‘The Howqua River Ride was one of the best things I’ve ever done! I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this experience. The weather, scenery, horses, accommodation, food, hosts and tour group were all fantastic! Michael, Karen and Beth were wonderful hosts. Nothing was too much trouble and they had excellent knowledge of the local area and history. They could not be faulted! I rode Wilbur, who was perfect for me as a beginner rider: very quiet and patient, but would move into a trot or canter when asked. The food was amazing, from the cooked breakfasts to the BBQ lunches to the chef-prepared dinners. An absolute standout was the seven course degustation – extremely memorable. I also loved the cafes and pub chosen for the group meals. I think the day when we crossed the Howqua River 52 times was my favourite!’
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