I thought I’d let you know about a horse riding holiday place that I have been to over the years.

Yarrabin is a horse and sheep country estate located 24 kilometres from Bathurst. It is one of Australia’s most acclaimed trail riding places and it over 1,000 hectares of gum forests, open paddocks and beautiful scenery. 

Most visitors to Yarrabin opt to join in the riding aspects of the trip. While there are other activities to do such as bush walking and gold panning, I probably wouldn’t go to Yarrabin if I wasn’t planning to ride.

There are usually two rides a day, together with some half day and full day rides. Guided rides are provided around bushland areas and open paddocks, with plenty of opportunities for a good canter/gallop (if you wish) and to enjoy amazing views of the surrounding areas and wildlife. There are also opportunities to try sheep herding for all those city folk!

There are over 30 horses to suit all levels of riders and experienced wranglers fully supervise all rides. I have been to Yarrabin with beginners, nervous riders and experienced riders – all who have had safe and enjoyable riding experiences. 

If you prefer to ride in your jods, you certainly do not feel out of place at Yarrabin. On the other hand, if you don’t have riding gear, boots and helmets are provided.

Three big country meals are provided each day, and you will definitely feel the need to eat up for the rides. And, if you don’t feel like you have coped so well with the hours in the saddle, you might find the spa a great place to go straight after.

Accommodation is in units, which while are nothing fancy, they definitely serve their purpose.

If you are unable to drive to Yarrabin, the staff kindly offer to collect you from Bathurst airport or railway station, as long as you make arrangements with them.

Yarrabin has special packages throughout the year, including for kids riding camps, horsemanship workshops and adults only weekends (the latter, I highly recommend).  

Further information can be found at www.yarrabin.com.