If you’re anything like us, slow travel is your favourite way to see the world – the kind of trip that’s less about ticking off 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 south to Kosciuszko National Park. On the way you’ll be able to explore the magnificent east coast, with its countless idyllic seaside towns, perhaps dropping into the capital city, Canberra, or exploring the numerous lush national parks that separate the coast from the Australian Alps. After a few days exploring this gorgeous route, you’ll be beyond excited for The Kosciuszko Ride, which takes you on an incredibly immersive journey through this wild part of the world.
Fly into Melbourne (or drive, if you’re already in eastern Aus) 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 day’s drive (or bus ride) to the Victorian High Country, where The Snowy River Ride awaits in Alpine National Park during the warmer months. Over winter, The Grampians Ride is delightfully close to Melbourne and promises a blend of invigorating riding and absolute luxury. Otherwise, you could take the ferry (or a short flight – shh, we won’t tell!) to Tasmania to experience the The Tassie 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 countless adventures to be had as you traverse the wide open spaces between Perth and The Margaret River Ride. The must-see destinations include Rottnest Island (have you seen those viral quokka selfies?), Wave Rock and Wellington National Park.
Moving in the other direction from Perth, take an EPIC road trip to Darwin (or catch a sneaky flight if you’re short on time). Don’t miss your chance to explore some of northern Australia’s most incredible scenery on the way, including the Pinnacles, Ningaloo Reef, the Kimberley region and Kakadu National Park. On arrival in Darwin, your host, Marc, will be ready to welcome you on The Top End Ride – a true-blue Aussie station experience!
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.
