The Shoalhaven Ride | Horse Riding Holidays in Australia | Globetrotting

The Shoalhaven Ride, Australia

2-4 NightsIntermediate to AdvancedFrom $2,145 AUD

Lush farmland, rugged mountains, spring-fed rivers, golden stretches of sandy beach, laid-back country towns and award-winning cellar doors – what more could you ask for in a Globetrotting destination?

The South Coast of New South Wales is a place where rugged, rocky mountains slope down to serene estuaries, where spring-fed rivers wind their way to the sparkling sea. It’s here amidst all of this natural beauty that some of Australia’s best food and wine is produced.

Crowned one of TripAdvisor’s top 10 emerging destinations worldwide, the Shoalhaven region encompasses laid-back country towns, more award-winning cellar doors and restaurants than you can poke a stick at, a buzzing arts scene, lush farmland, pristine wilderness and sublime beaches. What more could we ask for as globetrotters than to explore this unique region astride a bitless and barefoot steed?

From flying down the endless expanse of Seven Mile Beach to indulging in two course lunches with paired wines, we’ve crafted this itinerary to squeeze every drop of Globetrotting goodness out of the South Coast. Your hosts will leave no stone unturned in their quest to show you exactly why they believe the Shoalhaven truly is heaven on earth. By the time you fall into bed in your private room an evening, your senses will be overwhelmed by the sights, tastes, sounds and sensations of this remarkable place.

With just four guests per departure, this getaway is truly tailored to suit each rider. Your host, Tiff, believes that forming a strong and trusting partnership with our equine friends is one of the most rewarding relationships we can have. She’ll invite you to find deep connection by co-creating a space of softness, trust and flow with your horse. It’s through this connection that you can truly experience what a gift to mankind horses truly are.

So if naturally trained steeds, gourmet cuisine, picture-perfect beaches, native bushland and more than a few drops of wine is your idea of paradise, the Shoalhaven awaits!

Fast Facts

  • Horse Breed:Arabian, Percheron-cross and Quarter Horse. And on the beach ride, the lovely horses are a variety of breeds including Percheron-cross, Australian Stock Horse-cross, Quarter Horse and Clydie-cross.
  • Pace:The pace varies from a walk right through to a canter when the terrain allows.
  • Weight Limit:A maximum of 85kg / 187lbs.
  • Type of tack:Wintec endurance saddles with sheepskin seat savers and leather bitless bridles.
  • Seasons:March through to May, September through to November.
  • Group size:This ride welcomes 4 guests per departure.
  • Time in Saddle:On average, 2.5 to 5 hours a day.
  • Riding Ability:Suitable for intermediate to advanced riders. Not sure what your riding ability is? Watch THIS video to find out.
  • Accommodation:You’ll be staying at our guide's beautiful family farmhouse set within a lush garden overlooking the stunning Shoalhaven region. The farmhouse has a modern French feel, evoking warmth and comfort with a dash of luxe. You’ll have your own bedroom with a queen bed, and a bathroom shared with one other guest. There is unlimited access to the farmhouse, kitchen, pool and tennis court. On cool nights, an open fire is lit so you can cosy up with a glass of wine and a book. Unlimited WiFi is also available and you’ll be provided with linen, towels, body wash, shampoo and conditioner.
    NB: Two guests will be accommodated in the family farmhouse, while the other two will be accommodated in the pool house 20 metres away. For any guests who are particularly introverted, please inform us prior to departure and we'll ensure you're accommodated in the pool house.
  • Ride Length:There are 5 day, 4 night itineraries available as well as shorter 3 day, 2 night itineraries over specific weekends.
  • Inclusions:

    The price includes meals, alcohol, single room accommodation and riding.

  • Exclusions:

    The price does not include flights, travel insurance (compulsory) or transfers to/from the ride.

 

DEPARTURE DATES & RATES

NEW! Secure your saddle seat NOW with a 10% deposit - as part of our 10x 10% payment plan!
Departing FinishingAvailabilityTotal
March 23, 2024March 25, 2024SOLD OUT!
$2,145 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
March 30, 2024April 1, 2024SOLD OUT!
$2,145 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
April 12, 2024April 16, 2024SOLD OUT!
$3,980 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
April 26, 2024April 30, 2024SOLD OUT!
$3,980 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
May 10, 2024May 14, 2024SOLD OUT!
$3,980 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
May 24, 2024May 28, 2024SOLD OUT!
$3,980 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
September 28, 2024September 30, 2024SOLD OUT!
$2,145 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
October 5, 2024October 7, 2024SOLD OUT!
$2,145 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
October 12, 2024October 16, 2024SOLD OUT!
$3,980 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
October 25, 2024October 29, 2024SOLD OUT!
$3,980 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
November 8, 2024November 12, 2024SOLD OUT!
$3,980 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
November 22, 2024November 26, 20242 spots left
$3,980 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own roomBook

PLEASE NOTE: As directed by our ride partner, all guests must be fully Covid-vaccinated to take part in this ride.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?

The price includes meals, alcohol, single room accommodation and riding.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?

The price does not include flights, travel insurance (compulsory) or transfers to/from the ride location.

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

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*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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  • Five Day Ride - Day 1

    Yippee, the moment has finally come – you’re off to the glorious Shoalhaven for five days of what can only be described as total bliss! If you’ve opted for the transfer service, you will be collected from Sydney Airport at approximately 9:30am and transferred to Cambewarra Estate Winery in Bangalee (unless you’re self-driving, in which case, please arrive at the winery by 12pm). Here you’ll have a meet and greet with your ride host and guide, Tiffany Gale, over a sumptuous two-course lunch paired with a glass of wine.

    After lunch, you’ll head to your accommodation at Champagne Hill to freshen up and change into your riding gear. You’ll then hit the round yard and get to know your trusty steed over a groundwork session, creating a strong foundation of trust, connection and relaxation. Tiff is passionate about natural horsemanship and whether you’re new to the concept or a dab hand, it’s sure to be a highlight of your holiday. Then it’s time to mount up for a scenic trail ride in Champagne Hill’s conservation area, where you’ll wander amongst ferns and gaze up at the canopy of red bloodwood, Sydney peppermint gums and rough barked apple trees. 

    After this first glimpse at the Shoalhaven’s postcard-worthy scenery, you will retire with a glass of Prosecco and a cheese board just in time to soak up the sunset and the gorgeous views over Morton National Park before sitting down to dinner. If it’s a balmy evening, you’ll be treated to a wildlife/stargazing walk on which you just might spot a rock wallaby, wombat or eastern grey kangaroo.

  • Five Day Ride - Day 2

    After a big country breakfast, you’ll head to the horses and do some focus and relaxation work before setting out on the trail. Today you’ll trit-trot through Bugong National Park, winding through quintessential Australian bush in the aptly named Shoalhaven Sandstone Forest. If you’re lucky, hidden amongst the banksias, grass trees, turpentines and hard-leaved scribbly gums, you may spot an echidna, yellow bellied glider, yellow tailed black cockatoo or a goanna. The park’s unspoilt nature, combined with the nearby escarpment and Shoalhaven River, creates a strong sense of peace and solitude.

    After a canter along the open tracks, you’ll reach a breathtaking clifftop overlooking the Shoalhaven Gorge – a view you won’t forget in a hurry! Finally, you’ll arrive at Coolendel Lookout, having worked up an appetite from the morning’s adventures. But never fear – you’ll be met with a high tea with Prosecco scones, served atop rock formations overlooking the Shoalhaven River, Morton National Park and the Ettrema wilderness.

    Once everyone’s bellies and eyes are satisfied, you’ll meander back through the park before breezing through the vineyards of Lyrebird Organic Winery for a wine tasting of Chambourcin (red) and fortified wines (port). You’ll then unwind with a glass of your choice accompanied by local cheeses and condiments in front of the potbelly fire.

    Dinner will be at the award-winning Ponte Bar & Dining, a modern waterfront restaurant set alongside the southern bank of the stunning Shoalhaven River. You’ll enjoy delicious farm-to-plate, tapas style meals accompanied by a wine list of over 400 wines! Then it’s back to Champagne Hill for a well-earned rest.

  • Five Day Ride - Day 3

    Today’s itinerary will make the most of every single minute of your time on the South Coast. Depending on the tide, your beach ride will either be at sunrise or in the early afternoon, so today’s schedule will be decided accordingly.

    For the beach ride, you’ll tiptoe along a golf course, before reaching a pristine beach stretching as far as the eye can see. Now’s your chance to canter on a loose rein for as long as your heart desires – a true highlight of the trip that will have you feeling completely at one with your horse.

    The winery you’ll have the pleasure of visiting is Two Figs Winery, overlooking the glorious Shoalhaven River, for a premium wine tasting of whites, rosés, reds and stickies.
    You’ll also head over to Berry for a boutique shopping experience, and let’s not forget a visit to the infamous doughnut van, where you can enjoy some applause-worthy hot cinnamon doughnuts.

    And just in case you haven’t quite had enough great food and wine, lunch or dinner is at Bangalay Luxury Villas at Shoalhaven Heads (better known as Seven Mile Beach), where you’ll savour the region’s best produce made with local and native ingredients. Naturally, the wine list boasts a unique selection of fun, contemporary Australian wines as well as beautiful French varieties. No doubt you’ll be asleep as soon as your head hits the pillow tonight, globetrotters!

    **Please be advised, today’s order of activities is largely dependent on the ocean’s tides, with the beach ride taking place at the best possible time to ensure there is a large stretch of sand on which to enjoy a windswept canter.

  • Five Day Ride - Day 4

    If you can fit in another bite, a beautiful breakfast is provided at Champagne Hill. You’ll then get reacquainted with your horse and your guides will lead you out through the bush in search of a colony of threatened grey-headed flying foxes. You’ll scamper down alongside a mountain of amazing rock formations, with opportunities to trot and canter along the way, before reaching the Shoalhaven River for a picnic lunch and swim, should you feel so inclined. Then after a siesta, you’ll gather all your pluck to steer your horse back up the mountain and return to Champagne Hill.

    After this exhilarating ride, there’s the opportunity to enjoy a remedial massage (at an additional cost – approximately $110 for 45mins) in the privacy of the Pool House. Should you wish to indulge, it’s recommended that you make a booking at the same time that you reserve your saddle seat so you don’t miss out. The evening will be spent relaxing around the pool or the open fire (depending on the weather) with a Champagne Hill specialty cocktail before a casual on-site dinner and cards night.

  • Five Day Ride - Day 5

    It’s the last day of your ride today, boo! Once you’ve lapped up one final scrumptious breakfast at Champagne Hill, you’ll take the reins and follow you guides down nearby Abernethy’s Road, winding alongside caves, rock formations and streams with mountain valley views. Then you’ll head back up the mountain, where you’ll be able to really get the horses going with long trots and canters through the pristine bush.

    Finally, the time will come to bid adieu to the horse who has carried you bravely on your journey. You’ll enjoy a final lunch at the homestead then wave goodbye to your hosts and Champagne Hill and depart, bellies and hearts full!

    If you have booked the transfer service, you’ll be picked up and taken back to Sydney Airport, arriving by approximately 4:30 – 5pm.

  • Three Day Ride - Day 1

    This shorter 3 day, 2 night itinerary takes in the very best highlights from the longer 5 day trek, and squeezes them all into a long weekend!

    You’ll need to arrive at your host, Tiffany Gale’s property, Champagne Hill, no later than 10:30am today, so that you’re ready to hit the trail at 11am. Tiff is passionate about natural horsemanship and will guide you through her philosophy of softness, trust and relaxation so that you can form a strong connection with your horse.

    Mounting up, you’ll trit-trot through Bugong National Park, winding through quintessential Australian bush in the aptly named Shoalhaven Sandstone Forest. After a canter along the open tracks, you’ll reach a breathtaking clifftop overlooking the Shoalhaven Gorge – a view you won’t forget in a hurry! Finally, you’ll arrive at Coolendel Lookout, having worked up an appetite from the morning’s adventures. But never fear – you’ll be met with a high tea with Prosecco scones, served atop rock formations overlooking the Shoalhaven River, Morton National Park and the Ettrema wilderness.

    Once everyone’s bellies and eyes are satisfied, you’ll meander back through the park before breezing through the vineyards of Lyrebird Organic Winery for a wine tasting of Chambourcin (red) and fortified wines (port). You’ll then unwind with a glass of your choice accompanied by local cheeses and condiments in front of the potbelly fire.

    Dinner will be enjoyed at Champagne Hill. If it’s a balmy evening, you’ll be treated to a wildlife/stargazing walk on which you just might spot a rock wallaby, wombat or eastern grey kangaroo, before retiring to your rooms for a well-earned rest.

  • Three Day Ride - Day 2

    Today’s itinerary will make the most of every single minute of your time on the NSW South Coast. Depending on the tide, your beach ride will either be at sunrise or in the early afternoon, so today’s schedule will be decided accordingly.

    For the beach ride, you’ll tiptoe along a golf course, before reaching a pristine beach as long as the eye can see.  Now’s your chance to canter on a loose rein for as long as your heart desires – a true highlight of the trip that will have you feeling completely at one with your horse.

    The winery you’ll have the pleasure of visiting is Two Figs Winery, overlooking the glorious Shoalhaven River, for a premium wine tasting of whites, rosés, reds and stickies.
    You’ll also head over to Berry for a boutique shopping experience, and let’s not forget a visit to the infamous doughnut van, where you can enjoy some applause-worthy hot cinnamon doughnuts.

    And just in case you haven’t quite had enough great food and wine, lunch or dinner is at Bangalay Luxury Villas at Shoalhaven Heads (better known as Seven Mile Beach), where you’ll savour the region’s best produce made with local and native ingredients. Naturally, the wine list boasts a unique selection of fun, contemporary Australian wines as well as beautiful French varieties. No doubt you’ll be asleep as soon as your head hits the pillow tonight, globetrotters!

    **Please be advised, today’s order of activities is largely dependent on the ocean’s tides, with the beach ride taking place at the best possible time to ensure there is a large stretch of sand on which to enjoy a windswept canter.

  • Three Day Ride - Day 3

    Your final breakfast will be served at Champagne Hill, before you mount up one last time and follow your guides as they lead you out through the bush in search of a colony of threatened grey-headed flying foxes. You’ll then scamper down alongside a mountain of amazing rock formations, with opportunities to trot and canter along the way, before reaching the Shoalhaven River for a picnic lunch and swim. You’ll then steer your horse back up the mountain and arrive back at Champagne Hill at around 3:30pm, after which you’re free to depart with your bellies and hearts full from three incredible days of adventure, food and wine.

  • Other Activities

    Guests have the opportunity to enjoy a remedial massage (at an additional cost) on day 4 of the 5-day itinerary. The approximate cost is $110 for 45 minutes, or $135 for 60mins, payable direct in cash. It is recommended that should you wish to indulge in this alternate activity, bookings be made at the same time you reserve your saddle seat (or as early as possible) so you don’t miss out.

  • Transfer Information

    5 DAY ITINERARY:

    Transfers are not included in the ride price. If you’re travelling in a group we suggest hiring a car from Sydney Airport. Or you can catch the Jervis Bay Airport Express – please refer to their website, www.jervisbayairportexpress.net for pricing and booking details.

    Details for Airport Express transfer:

    Please book through the website details given above and arrange to be dropped off at Cambewarra Estate Winery.

    On day one, you’ll need to be picked up from Sydney Airport at approximately 9.30am (please ensure your flight arrives no later than 9.00am to give yourself time to collect your luggage and meet the transfer).  

    On the final day of your ride, you’ll be dropped off at North Nowra Shops (please advise pick up location at time of booking transfers) at approximately 1.30pm to catch the Airport Express to Sydney Airport to arrive approximately 4:30pm – 5pm. Please book departing flights after 7pm.

    Details for self-drivers:

    Please ensure you arrive at Cambewarra Estate Winery (520 Illaroo Road, Bangalee, NSW) by 12pm. Private vehicles can be parked at Champagne Hill for the duration of the ride.

    3 DAY ITINERARY:

    It is recommended you self drive for this shorter itinerary, and you’ll need to arrive at Champagne Hill by 10.30am on day 1 so you’re ready to ride out at 11am. On the last day, the ride will finish at around 3.30pm after which you’ll be free to depart. 

What our valued Globetrotters say about The Shoalhaven Ride

The Shoalhaven ride, New South Wales, Australia - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Patricia Everington

‘The Shoalhaven Ride is a wonderful experience. We were warmly welcomed and looked after very well by an extremely lovely family. The accommodation was excellent and all meals were delicious. It was great to have the opportunity to try so many different local foods, all accompanied by a variety of wines. My horse, Freddie, was very responsive and I really enjoyed riding him. My favourite day was when we rode for 6 hours in the sunshine, then cooled off in the pool, before enjoying cocktails, a cheese platter, a massage, a delicious meal, and finally music, dancing and laughter.’

 

The Shoalhaven Ride, New South Wales, Australia - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Rebecca Clemmey

‘This trip was like going to stay with family for a few days. Lorraine was an amazing host, very welcoming and eager to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible. Tiff and Bernie were great guides, taking photos and making sure everyone was safe and happy. I rode Prosecco, a lovely, cheeky boy who was easy to just sit back and relax on. The high tea and winery ride day was my favourite. The food was all beautiful, the weather held out for us, and the scenery was amazing!’

The Shoalhaven Ride, New South Wales, Australia - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Deborah Sanderson

‘So you love your horse? I know I do. But I only like riding horses that are truly happy, well cared for and LOVED. So go bitless riding with Tiffany and her horses – the love will blow your mind. If you’re lucky enough to ride Phoenix – let the rein loose and let this amazing horse teach YOU a thing or two! Tiffany and Bernie are true horsewomen. They were kind, generous and flexible, and so were Tiffany’s parents, who hosted us. I felt very cared for, both on and off the horse. Did I say go bitless with Tiffany?!?’

The Shoalhaven Ride, New South Wales, Australia - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Tracey Long

‘I can’t even begin to imagine a better trip than this. It is truly faultless. Tiff and her parents’ hospitality is second to none – within minutes you feel like old friends. The food is amazing. The accommodation is divine. Their home is well loved and you can feel that everywhere you go. The itinerary is so well planned. Every day has different scenery and new experiences. High tea on top of a mountain, beach rides followed by a winery lunch, a night on the town, a shopping trip with coffee and (the best ever) donuts – how much better can it get?!
Bernie and Tiff are exceptional guides who clearly love what they do, and their total respect and tenderness towards the horses is a joy to watch. The horses pay them back in bucketloads. They are stunning: beautifully mannered, even tempered and super responsive. I can’t recommend this trip more highly. The memories will stay with me forever!’

The Shoalhaven Ride, New South Wales, Australia - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Liz Somes

‘I loved each day for a different reason. Day one’s ride to the lookout was spectacular, and to be met by high tea on the clifftop was very special. Day two’s sunrise beach ride was probably the favorite – I have a soft spot for a sunrise on the beach between two ears. This was followed by an awesome breakfast, and the rest of the day exploring the town, wineries and lookouts just topped it off. All the meals were delicious, hearty and well thought out. The horses were very safe and reliable and knew their job. Tiff and Bernie were fabulous guides, meticulous with horse and rider safety, lovely company at every point and nothing was ever too much trouble. By day two they felt like forever friends. Lenny and Lorraine were just amazing and welcomed us into their home so warmly. It felt like going home and having your mum spoil you for the weekend!’

The Shoalhaven Ride, New South Wales, Australia - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Emma Masters

‘We loved our time on The Shoalhaven Ride. My horse Shilo was just like my favourite horse at home – a delightful, point-and-shoot type who was soft, responsive and safe. Tiff, Lenny and Lorraine very warm and welcoming – I felt like part of the family.  Our guides were 10/10 lovely, kind, helpful and friendly ladies. The beach ride was really beautiful! I’d definitely recommend this trip.’

The Shoalhaven Ride, New South Wales, Australia - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Vicki Anderson

‘A perfect three day riding safari with the best life has to offer. Divine horses, lovely countryside with views across Kangaroo Valley, beautiful hosts and guides, delicious food, great wineries and platters, and luxurious accommodation. I was very blessed and honoured to ride Shiloh, the most responsive, divine, adorable Arab – a magic boy to ride. Just a perfect horse in every way. The winery trips were very enjoyable and personal, and the beach day was sunny and glorious, with great canters.
A decadent and joyful getaway, very highly recommended.’

The Shoalhaven Ride, New South Wales, Australia - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Robyn O’Keefe

‘The Shoalhaven Ride is an enjoyable blend of riding and relaxation, mixed with food and wine experiences. The hospitality and accommodation are excellent. Tiff shows an obvious love and dedication to her horses, who, in turn, are calm, well trained and a pleasure to ride. I rode Shiloh, who was kind, forward-going and responsive, a real darling. I also enjoyed the opportunity to ride Texas on Seven Mile Beach. I rarely have the opportunity to ride large horses and he was dreamy!’

The Shoalhaven Ride, New South Wales, Australia - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Drisha Patel

‘Often while at work, I find myself daydreaming about how I’d rather be on horseback, in the fresh air, on an adventure, with no worries and eating food I’m too lazy to make at home with a glass of wine. This daydream is The Shoalhaven Ride! The adventure begins with views of a maple tree lined driveway and horses in their fields. Knowing one of them is all yours for the duration of your stay makes it even more thrilling (especially if you get Marsara – she’s amazing and super responsive). Every day is fun-filled, with food from the home and at restaurants, wine, horses and riding through nature with different terrains and views. Tiff and her family make you feel like part of the household and you will end up wanting to live there!’

STORIES FROM THE SADDLE

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