Reviews

‘The Rainbow Beach, Bush & Cattle Ride is a fantastic way to see a working cattle farm, beautiful countryside and the world renowned Rainbow Beach, and even ride bareback into the surf – I felt like I’d died and gone to heaven! The food and accommodation way exceeded my expectations – I couldn’t believe the standard of food I was eating on top of a mountain. My horse T-Rex was the perfect fit for me, and you can tell how much Andrew and his team care about all their horses and guests. I met a diverse group of fellow horse lovers and had a really relaxed, fantastic time. My first Globetrotting ride, and it definitely won’t be my last!’

‘I was lucky to nab a cancelled saddle seat, and it was the best thing I’ve done in years! Everything about this ride was perfect for me. Andrew and his guides couldn’t have been more supportive or encouraging and I left with renewed confidence and a desire to up my riding game even more. The accommodation was comfortable and clean, the food was to die for, the other guests were great company and the horses were well trained, consistent and responsive. I rode the darling Henro, an oversized Labrador in temperament who loved a cuddle. He was steady and sweet, but with the right buttons to get the job done. The terrain and activities were varied and fun. I particularly loved the cattle days – mustering them along the road and working them in the pen. Riding along the beach was also a standout. I could have easily stayed another week and hope to ride with Andrew and the gang again sometime.’

‘After 20 weeks of riding lessons, this ride was a mother-daughter adventure dream. With the help of the lovely staff, I was given a new appreciation for riding. Andrew and his crew are wonderful people and create an amazing adventure where you can go as hard or easy as you like. The horses are matched to your level of experience, letting you relax and enjoy the ride. The property, views and people are amazing. Add on the fantastic meals and you have a dream holiday. I so enjoyed the whole experience.’

‘Imagine a group of kind, happy staff who have so much care for their riders and horses, and are incredibly supportive of your progress and enjoyment.
Horses so well looked after, responsive and calm you can’t help but make a bond.
Views to die for, local scenery varying between the bush, paddocks and the beach providing that sensory enjoyment.
Cool, rustic, hilltop glamping accommodation.
Activities to keep you on your toes, learning and laughing.
I will never forget this trip, the staff, the group of globetrotters, my mount Maverick, the learnings… the enjoyment.
You won’t either!’

‘The Rainbow Beach Ride exceeded my expectations. I have had horses most of my life and am still amazed at how well trained these horses are. My mount, Flint, was exceptionally educated and extremely safe. He could chill and plod along, but also had great get-up-and-go when you wanted it. The glamping tents were warm, cozy and so beautifully presented. The food was excellent – great presentation, huge quantities, and tasty. All the staff on the ride were friendly, informative and a pleasure to be around. Every day was a great day. Swimming in the surf was a stand-out, but the campdrafting day was probably my favourite, as I learned so many new horsemanship skills. An adventure for everyone!’

‘What can I say other than wow, it was an amazing adventure! My partner Tony loved it too, and it sounds like he will be joining me on more rides in the future, which is amazing.
I rode Destiny and Tony had Nelson – two perfectly trained horses. Andrew and the crew were awesome and I truly learnt so much about riding that I will take back to my own horse. The group of people were amazing and Tony and I will definitely catch up with our fellow Queenslanders again.
Honestly, we could not fault a thing and had the best time. We wish we did the 5 day ride instead of the 3 day!’

‘Globetrotting offer an amazing range of rides worldwide and having done two of them, the standard seems to be very high. All the guides on this holiday were exceptionally knowledgeable and friendly and Andrew’s instruction was excellent. I rode Flint, who was a very quiet and well trained horse. My main reason for joining the ride was to be able to ride a fully trained cutting horse and learn how to “press the buttons” for that style of riding and I was able to do just that.’

‘Andrew and his team make you feel welcome from first contact. Warm, honest, down to earth, country hospitality at its finest. Their love of their horses is inspiring. The riding education offered is the best I’ve ever had the privilege to experience. The diversity of experiences – mountain, bush, beach, working cattle – is utterly sublime.
Honestly, we were spoilt rotten and I could not recommend this joyful experience more highly. Do it!! And although they offer WiFi and electricity from their mountaintop paradise, my suggestion is to leave all that behind and really soak up the connection with nature that this slice of heaven offers.
Book now – you wont regret it!’

‘I arrived to absolute paradise and throughly enjoyed my five days! Every little detail had been thought of and guest comfort was priority. Andrew and his staff were fantastic, down-to-earth, a lot of fun, and highly educational regarding the local area and horsemanship. The group I was with were an absolute hoot, but the heroes of the ride were the horses. My gelding, Teddy, was fantastically trained with a mouth like butter, and super responsive. He was safe and surefooted whilst also having plenty of get up and go. I wanted to bring him home with me! Horse welfare is the highest priority, and that was so easy to see with the passion that both the staff and the horses displayed. There was a great variety of riding in a short space of time. Cantering down one of the prettiest beaches imaginable then swimming bareback cannot be described. The food by Chef Dan was spectacular and individual catering needs were no issue. I really cannot put into words how incredible this experience was and I can’t recommend it enough!’

‘Where to even begin with the best ride ever? First and most important is Globetrotting. Nothing was too much trouble for Laura and Kate. Communication from the day I booked right up until the ride was fabulous.
Andrew is a guru at his job and Zac and Georgia were both so sweet and professional.
Every day was different, yet seemed to build on the previous day’s experience. T-Rex was my very able steed. He was as steady as can be, especially down the mountains. When we got the go-ahead to canter, he was brilliant – he just picked up and flew along, and stopped easily at the end.
To call our glamorous accommodation ‘tents’ is not an accurate description. ‘Five star bedroom under canvas’ might just about cut it. Absolutely everything had been thought of. I had the best night’s sleep. The food – OMG. I wish I could give out Michelin Stars for the amazing, huge and delicious concoctions that Dan cooked in the camp kitchen.
The whole experience was a bucket list item fulfilled. I’ve made some awesome friends and can’t wait for my next trip.’

‘I booked this trip on a whim and went by myself and it’s honestly one of the best things I have ever done! Andrew and his team are some of the loveliest people you will ever meet and they make you feel instantly at home. The accommodation is cosy and comfy with the most stunning views, and showering on top of a mountain with a view of the countryside is something everyone should try!
I rode Turbo and I’ve never felt more safe on a horse I had just met. Andrew was a fantastic teacher and explained how best to ride and communicate with his horses, which made things a whole lot smoother for both me and Turbo.
All three days were unique and wonderful. We had the most incredible weather for the beach day and getting to ride bareback into the surf is something I won’t forget in hurry! Riding to the pub and cantering around the countryside with a group of amazing people was so much fun, but learning how to work with cattle was definitely my favourite part. Andrew broke everything down into easy to understand steps and in no time at all we were wrangling baby cows like it was no big deal (or so we thought!).
Three days flew by and I loved it so much that I’ve already decided to come back and do the five day adventure. I can’t recommend this ride enough!’

‘I can’t rate this ride highly enough. Andrew and his team are first class – so knowledgeable and patient. Andrew taught me so much about his discipline of riding. Zac, Brett, Rod, Georgia and Jenny were very professional and such fun to be with at all times. Sean and Dominic are to be commended for all the beautiful food. The horses were so well behaved, and so obviously loved. I could not believe how responsive they all were. Riding bareback in the ocean was seriously exhilarating, but I felt safe with Andrew, the team and his fabulous horses. This is a dream holiday for the horse lover.’

‘This riding holiday was amazing. All the team were so knowledgeable and helpful – nothing was too much trouble. The accommodation was very comfortable and the location was stunning. Having drinks and nibbles every afternoon watching the sunset on top of the mountain was the perfect way to end each day. The meals were fantastic and Dan the chef made sure everyone was looked after. I rode Destiny. He was very well educated and it was a privilege to ride such a beautiful horse of such high quality. Everyone was looked after according to their ability and made to feel safe. Every day was something different and mustering and working with the cattle was the highlight for me. Cantering along the beach and swimming the horses was fabulous. The fact that the guides were all so lovely and everyone in the group got along so well made this trip unforgettable.’

‘My husband and I went on this ride as part of our honeymoon and wow – we were blown away with the quality of the experience. Andrew and his team are not only wonderful teachers, hosts and guides but have cracking senses of humour. We had an amazing week filled with laughter, horses and (regrettably) sunburn. I rode Dolly, who was as grumpy as the title “chestnut mare” invokes, but an absolute dream to ride. Responsive, well trained and fabulous on cattle. She taught me so much and I was amazed at how she could switch on when needed, then relax totally when trail riding. Overall, everything was incredible. I would highly recommend this ride!’

‘I originally agreed to go on this trip with my wife as I knew she would love it. I was never enthusiastic around horses, so I went into this trip with lower expectations as it wasn’t typically my niche. But as the days went on, I found myself forming a new opinion of horse riding. I rode Major, and on the beach day I was given George. Both horses were fantastic and responsive. I was able to learn so much riding Major – I wish I could have taken him home. My favourite experience was the campdrafting. It was fast paced, competitive and I just want to keep doing more and more of it! All the guides were awesome at doing their jobs and performing their duty of care. They catered to everyone and mentored me really well. The experience, people and horses were all fantastic and I’m looking forward to taking my wife on many more Globetrotting rides.’

‘Our Rainbow Beach experience far exceeded expectations, from the beautiful accommodation and surrounds to the exceptional food, awesome hospitality and of course the horses. The riding was outstanding, so different every day – and as an added bonus, my riding ability improved greatly. I was teamed with Dolly, who was surefooted, spirited and a pleasure to ride. Andrew and his team could not have been any more accommodating and by the week’s end it felt like we were staying with family. One of the best holidays we have ever had. This will be the first of many Globetrotting experiences for us!’

‘I loved everything about this ride. Andrew and his team went above and beyond to make sure we all had an amazing time. I liked that they often split the group according to the pace each guest wanted to ride at the time: walkers, trotters and canterers. Horses and riders were all well matched and I was very happy with my horse Chip, who was sweet, willing, responsive and well behaved. My favourite day was the beach ride. I loved riding into the surf with Chip, who was not worried at all by the waves. Glamping was a plus with comfy tents and beds, and the ‘shower with a view’, great food and fantastic company all added to the experience.’

‘This was my fourth Globetrotting ride and was hands down the funnest one I’ve been on. Andrew and the team are great down-to-earth cowboys who couldn’t do enough for us and can teach you to ride like a scene out of Yellowstone! But by far the heroes of the ride were the horses. My mare, Dolly, was beautifully trained with a mouth like butter, and was super responsive to leg aids. She was safe and surefooted while also having plenty of get-up-and-go when we hit the open flats and the beach. I loved riding her so much I just wanted to bring her home with me! There was a great variety of horse riding in a short space of time. Key highlights were learning to campdraft and swimming with the horses in the open surf.’

‘This was the most amazing experience. I highly recommend that everybody does this ride. Every day was an adventure, from the bush to the beach and everything in between. The horses were so well looked after and well trained, the staff were extremely accommodating and friendly, the glamping tents were amazing, and the food was divine. The view from the mountain was awesome and riding in the bush, beach, and up and down the mountain was so much fun.
I loved it!’

‘The Rainbow Beach, Bush & Cattle Ride was fantastic. I loved every minute. Growing up I always wanted to be a jillaroo, and this trip gave me a little insight into what it would be like. Andrew, Kelly and Dean were exceptional and the knowledge and experience that they shared was amazing… I have learnt so much. I rode George, who was just the confidence booster I needed. I felt safe on every ride. I had so many firsts on this trip, from riding on the beach to droving and cutting cattle. The memories and friendships I have made will be treasured – my cheeks are sore from smiling so much!
Shaun the chef was amazing. His slow-cooked ribs and creamy garlic prawns were some of the best I’ve had. Every meal he gave us was delicious. The glamping tents were fantastic and very spacious. No complaints here. I will definitely be booking another horse adventure with Globetrotting; they made it easy.’

‘This ride was the perfect mix of trail riding, cattle work and beach riding, with the most spectacular location for our home base. The glamping tents were incredibly cosy and comfy, with nice linen. Each day was different and flowed nicely; I felt I was building skills steadily, without any pressure, as Andrew and his team were so patient. Their cattle work and horse knowledge was amazing, and they were very down to earth. Destiny, my horse, was so clever and quick on his turns – he loved chasing cattle. It was also nice not to be riding nose to tail all the time, as we had freedom to direct our horses.
There were so many highlights, like seeing koalas, a private concert with Tania Kernaghan, pushing cattle through long grass, and sliding down a steep bank that we also rode back up a few days later! The food was amazing and plentiful. Everyone got on so well, and I hope we meet again on a future ride.’

‘It couldn’t possibly get any better than this! From beach riding to cattle work, the week was filled with plenty of moments that will be remembered for a lifetime. Andrew, Dean and Kelly’s combined knowledge of horses, cattle, riding and mustering is expansive and, coupled with the jaw-dropping scenery, will forever be cherished.
Shaun the Chef was brilliant! From the mouthwatering prawns on the first night to the best ribs I have ever eaten to the fish ‘n’ chips, there was no meal that wasn’t perfection. A few of us hoped to bring Shaun home with us!
The accommodation was out of this world. Glamping at its finest! I wasn’t sure what to expect and was surprised to find carpets, chairs, beds, etc. There was no problem sharing with another person as the tents were so spacious.
I rode the beautiful, kind and intelligent Dolly. She made me feel so secure and safe. I am still in awe of how much she has taught me about my riding and my confidence.
The experience bonds everyone together and you make Globetrotting friends for life. I’m already planning upcoming rides with them! I can’t wait to get back out to the property to learn more and ride Andrew’s beautiful horses again.’

‘This is a really good ride for both experienced and beginner riders. You never stop learning and the instruction is amazing. Mustering and campdrafting were awesome. I left with much to work on, but with much enthusiasm! The value for money was fantastic – we didn’t have to pay for anything on the whole trip and never went without. I rode Mojo and Dynamite and they were both fantastic. The food was amazing, as were the tents, and the guides were lovely people.’

‘I’ve just arrived back from the Goomboorian Campdraft Ride. Andrew and his team were amazing. Each of them are very obviously accomplished riders and this showed in the way they worked with the horses throughout the week, how they matched the horses to their guests, and also in the way they taught us about riding and handing not only the horses, but also the cattle both in the yards and on horseback. I was very lucky to ride Dynamite – he was beautifully responsive, with a lovely can do attitude, comfortable gaits, and he certainly knows how to work a beast! Awesome horse!
At Cots Camp, Rod and Jake were amazing teachers – getting us all out of the camp with a steer and around the pegs in a couple of days! Their passion for the sport is undeniable.
The scenery was beautiful both at Goomboorian and Widgee, and both camps were great. The bell tents at Mount Goomboorian were warm and spacious and the beds were really comfortable, too. I also loved the outdoor shower with its awesome view! The food was delicious (thanks Sean) and the hospitality was second to none – nothing was too much trouble for Andrew and the team.
I can’t wait to go back one day and recommend to anyone who is thinking about doing this ride to book it – you will not regret it!’

‘Hands down the best horse riding experience I’ve had. Do yourself a favour and sign up for this ride, you won’t be disappointed! The knowledge of horsemanship, the area and environment Andrew shared with us was amazing and I learnt a lot. I rode Wombat and immediately fell in love with her. My only problem was not being able to fit her in my suitcase to bring her home, not to mention Andrew ‘s reluctance to part with her! Andrew is an amazing person and an all round great guy who really helped to build my riding confidence during the ride. Rod Cotter and his staff at Cots Camp were exceptional. Wonderful people, very warm and welcoming, and encouraging us so positively that it’s sparked us to continue to take a keen interest in campdrafting. The hospitality, accommodation and food was outstanding. Every effort was made to ensure our needs were accommodated. Big thanks to ‘Shaun the Chef’, every meal was delicious. We learnt a lot, laughed a lot, and made memories to last a lifetime.’

‘The Goomboorian Campdraft Ride was the adventure of a lifetime. Waking up on top of a mountain to the sounds of horses, the smells of the campfire and a good meal being cooked was a dream come true. This was a camp-out with a bit of luxury, with our chef, and staff to care for and tack up our horses each day. Even the fire-heated shower felt decadent! The horses were extremely well trained and a joy to ride. The staff were careful to coach us on the proper cues to make sure that both the horses and guests were happy. This was a trip of a lifetime that I will never forget.’

‘This holiday had everything you could ever want! Trail riding, cattle mustering, campdrafting, hanging by the fire with good people, eating like royalty, learning so much about horses and farming in a short amount of time. It really makes you appreciate Queensland and all it has to offer.’

‘The best holiday I have ever had! There was no expense spared, from the spacious glamping tents to the garlic prawns for dinner to the steadfast, well-bred Quarter Horses we rode. No two days were the same, with a contrast in landscapes and a great variety of terrain. Over the week we navigated river crossings, mountainous slopes and vast open expanses with views that took our breath away. The staff couldn’t have been more friendly or supportive and went out of their way to cater for riders of all abilities. It is a credit to Andrew McCarthy and his team. Who would ever dream that you could sit on a horse having a drink in a bar – and have a photo to prove it!
There are no words to describe the adrenaline rush you get from chasing a beast on horse. All I know is that once you have a go, it’s addictive. Rod Cotter and his team broke down the discipline of campdrafting into small manageable chunks and were ever so encouraging and helpful. I could honestly not recommend this ride more highly! You will have the time of your life.’

‘What a great trip, really felt like I got away from it all! Would do it again in a heartbeat.’

“Thank you everyone who was a part of this week, I will remember it fondly forever.”

“New friends, amazing experiences living on top of a mountain, then there’s the horses. AMAZING!”

“This was my first visit to Queensland and I couldn’t have chosen a better holiday than this outback ride of a lifetime!”

“I loved every minute of this experience!”

“The Goomboorian Campdraft ride truly was a special trip!”

“The Goomboorian Campdraft Ride was wonderful from the horses to the trail rides to the campdraft clinic at the end of the trip!”

“Andrew McCarthy our host was perfect! The food totally exceeded my expectations and the campsites were amazing and comfortable!”

“This trip was non-stop fun and adventure from the beginning to end. I highly recommend it to anyone who’s thinking about it!”

“If you are looking for an experience to learn about horsemanship, cattle work and the sport of campdrafting then this trip is a must. I highly recommend it!”