The Barossa Valley, with its temperate South Aussie climate, lends itself to one of the world’s great wine regions – an absolute MUST if you have even the slightest interest in a good drop. It’s also the sort of place where astride a horse, you see and feel it for ‘real’ – the development of the Valley depended on hardworking horses who cultivated the land, worked the vineyards, moved stock and transported children to school, so it seems only fitting to discover this region on horseback.
On this five day, four night riding itinerary, guests will immerse themselves in the Barossa landscape, explore the charming countryside, interact with the locals who have farmed the area for generations, not to mention devour the gourmet food and wine the region is best known for.
Jen and Jeremy have found the best-kept secrets and best riding trails possible, with the valley offering a breathtaking patchwork of vineyards, farmland and forest to ride through. Days in the saddle will be spent crossing the Barossa Valley Ranges and dropping down into local wineries for lunch, or skipping around the forestry trails, stock routes and quiet country roads, popping out at magnificent stone huts and historic homesteads for a ‘breather’. A highlight includes a world class dining experience at St Hugo’s ‘The Restaurant’, with a four-course degustation menu matched with the perfect drop of wine – it will blow your mind!
Fast Facts
- Horse Breed:Arabian and Arabian cross.
- Pace:Variable, depending on the terrain, with opportunities to trot and canter.
- Weight Limit:Maximum of 90kg/198lbs.
- Type of tack:State of the art lightweight endurance saddles.
- Seasons:March through to June.
- Group size:A minimum of 5 and a maximum of 8 riders.
- Time in Saddle:2 to 6 hours a day.
- Riding Ability:All riding abilities are catered for from beginner* to advanced riders.
*For this particular ride, as a beginner rider you’re able to mount and dismount a horse (unassisted) and stop your horse. You’re capable of riding your horse at a walk, posting to the trot and cantering (but may need to build your confidence and are willing to learn). You’ll need to be riding fit as on a daily basis you’ll spend two to six hours in the saddle. With that said, there is the option to shorten your time in the saddle, but at a minimum, you’ll need to ride for three hours per day with extended periods of trotting. - Accommodation:A modern, beautifully appointed farm homestead with six private bedrooms and two shared bathrooms.
- Ride Length:5 days, 4 nights.
- Inclusions:The price includes meals, beer and wine (showcasing the very BEST wines the Barossa has to offer), single accommodation, riding, and transfers to and from Adelaide Airport.
- Exclusions:The price does not include flights or travel insurance (compulsory).
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
Mel Fairbanks
‘I absolutely loved my ride in the Barossa Valley. Jen and Jeremy were such wonderful hosts and their well behaved string of horses are an absolute credit to them. The accommodation was very clean and cosy, and all the meals were fantastic, and the wine too! Jeremy and Jen cooked delicious food, and the pizza night at Ros and Peter’s was great too. My favourite day was definitely riding along the mountain ranges to lunch at Grant Burge Winery. My dear horse, Jabberwocky, was a dream to ride. I loved every bit of it!’
Christine Kerr
‘What a wonderful five days we had with Jen, Jeremy and Roz. We were so spoiled to have a whole ride to ourselves, as we were eight riders, all friends. We chose this ride to celebrate our wonderful friend Jude’s 85th birthday. We had the most fantastic time, travelling through the amazing forest, vineyards, steep hilly country and fire trails through the bush areas. Jeremy and Roz were our guides while on horseback and nothing was ever a problem. The horses were wonderful, all endurance trained, so responsive and forward. Everyone was suited well to their horse. I rode the beautiful, grey mare, Moonlight (Moo), a sensitive little lady. Off the horse, Jen looked after us so well. Our horses were all ready for us every morning, lunch brought out to us on the days we didn’t stop near civilisation, and then at the end of every day, Jen was there to greet us and help put the horses to bed.’
Jill Gibson
‘Riding through the grape vines of the Barossa Valley, up and down the many hills, and enjoying the spectacular views was just amazing. I thought it was the best way to see the Barossa Valley. You see so much more. I love the old eucalyptus trees, and even better the view between Ruby’s ears when she pricks them and looks around at the sights. Jen and Jeremy are great guides and hosts this why I wanted to do the Grape Horse Adventure. I was going to do Jen and Jeremy’s Tassie Tiger Trail again but decided to give this ride a try instead, and sure enough it was everything that I imagined. I’ve said goodbye to Ruby twice before, not sure if I would see her again, and I am so blessed that I did. She’s a trooper.’
Max & Pam Goldsmith
‘We loved this ride – the absolutely superb horses, the great company of guests, the outstanding gourmet food and wine and the constant care and support from Jeremy and Jen. The countryside we rode through was incredible and those amazing horses showed they can take us anywhere. We will definitely ride with them again! …and did we mention the stunning wines!’
Susanna Brown
‘This ride was so much more than I’d hoped it would be. I came on my own, but felt completely part of the group – all friendly, inspiring and interesting women. Jen and Jeremy took care of us like we were family, and have created a diverse and awesome itinerary not just of great riding, but of local food and wine experiences and meeting local people. And Jabberwocky was my beautiful, willing, four-legged partner every day!’
Joyleen McNulty
‘Don’t miss the Grape Horse Adventure! The most beautifully trained horses well matched to your riding skills, and a chance to learn more about these beautiful endurance horses. The food and wine experience was exceptional and you’ll have the two most hospitable hosts. You will feel very much at home in this wonderful country setting. Thank you, Jen and Jeremy, for a memorable week!’
Janelle Coleman
‘My first Globetrotting experience has made me hungry for more. As a person who has owned horses most of my life I have finally found the next best thing to riding my own horses. I won’t risk any of the standard horse riding tour companies as I have been disappointed in the past. I trust Globetrotting to ensure that all their rides provide the highest standard of horses in terms of fitness and temperament and hosts who are professional, experienced, and treat both horses and clients as a priority. I’m so glad I finally did it!!’
Annie Kilgour
‘A truly amazing ride! Our hosts, Jen and Jeremy, were fabulous, their horses were amazing, the scenery was breathtaking, the food and wine were oh so good, what more could you ask for! This ride has it all. Enjoyed every minute and would go again tomorrow!’
Sherri Hazzard
‘Just wanted to say a huge thank you to Jen and Jeremy and the Globetrotting team for hosting such a wonderful holiday on The Grape Horse Adventure in the Barossa Valley. It simply was amazing! It was a privilege to ride such beautiful horses. The scenery was spectacular, as was the food and wine. We had a fabulous group of people and I learnt so much about natural horsemanship. I hope to join the team on the Tassie Tiger Trail in the future.’
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