Low & Slow Travel on Horseback: Australia & New Zealand

Life as a Globetrotter

What do you picture when you think of post-Covid travel, globetrotters? If you’re anything like us, this pandemic has opened your eyes to the beauty of slow travel – the kind of trip that’s less about seeing as much as possible and more about experiencing as deeply as possible. Truly being right where you are. And as all equestrians know, nothing brings you back into the here and now quite like riding a horse. It’s also one of the oldest forms of ‘low travel’: travel that keeps you on the ground, not up in the air; travel that fully embraces the fascinating journey of getting from one place to the next.

Low, slow travel is at the heart of our Globetrotting ethos. It respects culture. It honours natural rhythms. It sustains, rather than drains, the places you visit. It invites you to leave your tech at home, along with your preconceptions, and jump headfirst into adventure.

So in the spirit of slow travel, we want to help you plan your multi-destination horseback trip of a lifetime across Australia and/or New Zealand! Keep reading for itinerary inspiration.

 

Australia

We have so many rides in Australia that you can literally choose your own adventure. Here are some suggestions:

Fly into Sydney and spend a day or two sightseeing, then self-drive or catch the free transfer to The Shoalhaven Ride for a luxurious three or five day riding, wining and dining experience. From here, take your time driving north to Queensland (buses and trains are also available, but most travellers prefer to drive). On the way you’ll be able to explore the magnificent Blue Mountains, the stunning New South Wales North Coast and the famous surf town of Byron Bay. Reaching Queensland, if you’re so inclined you can enjoy the many bright and shiny delights of the Gold Coast before continuing north past Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast. If you like, you can drop off your hire car in ‘Brisvegas’ and take the train to the Sunny Coast (it’s a very scenic trip, and avoids the often-troublesome traffic!). After a few days exploring this gorgeous region and its equally beautiful hinterland, you’ll be beyond excited for the Rainbow Beach, Bush & Cattle Ride, which takes you on an incredibly immersive journey through this idyllic part of the world.

Fly into Melbourne and book a hotel in either the CBD or Saint Kilda for the ultimate Melbourne experience. Don’t make too many plans – let this city surprise you in all the best ways. And while you’re there, do NOT miss the chance to drive along the Great Ocean Road! We recommend staying overnight in either Port Fairy or Apollo Bay, where you’ll get both great views and a great glimpse of local life.

From Melbourne, it’s a gorgeous two-and-a-half hour drive to the Victorian High Country, where the Craig’s Hut & Country Ride and the Howqua River Ride await. Otherwise, you could take the ferry (or a short flight – shh, we won’t tell!) to Tasmania to experience the Cradle to Coast Ride. Be sure to allow at least two more days to explore the many delights of the Apple Isle, from cold climate wineries to incredible hiking trails and national parks.

Fly into Perth and book accommodation in the eclectic, laid-back coastal suburb of Fremantle while you recover from the jetlag and admire the reliably gorgeous sunsets. Western Australia is 10.5 times the size of the United Kingdom and the second-largest country subdivision in the world! Needless to say, there are months’ worth of adventures to be had as you traverse the wide open spaces that stretch between The Margaret River Ride in the south and The Kimberley Ride (or The Special Edition Kimberley Ride) in the north. The must-see destinations include Rottnest Island (have you seen those viral quokka selfies?), the Pinnacles, Ningaloo Reef, Wave Rock and Esperance Bay.

Fair warning: The Kimberley Ride season is from May to August and The Margaret River Ride season is from September to April, so if you want to catch both of these rides in one trip, you’ll have to head up to the Kimberley in July or August, then meander down to Margaret River in September or October, depending on your schedule.

And while you’re in this part of the world, why not jump the ditch and visit…

New Zealand

Fly into Auckland and head north to the Bay of Islands region for the Twin Coast Adventure, then wind your way down through Rotorua (be sure to visit the Hobbiton movie set!) to Lake Taupo. Enjoy the sights and sounds of this magnificent, expansive lake and the friendly town of Taupo before embarking on The River Valley Ride in the heart of the high country. Finally, take the ferry to the South Island for the ultimate Lord of the Rings adventure on the Glenorchy Back Country Ride. If you’re keen for a few more thrills before you leave this beautiful corner of the world, Queenstown is the perfect base.

Which of these itineraries tickles your fancy, globetrotters? Let us know in the comments, or feel free to contact us to start planning your epic riding adventure!