Where to go horse riding in Melbourne

If you're looking for a gentle intro to horse riding that isn't far from the CBD, Woodlands Trail Rides is a wonderful spot to get settled in the saddle. The Woodlands Historic Park in Greenvale boasts panoramic views of the city, the bay and the Great Dividing Range. Trail rides start from one hour in length, and it's a great way to get a taste of horse riding without having to spend most of the day in the car. Still nervous? You can even book private lessons that will teach you the basic skills.

Distance from CBD: 30 minutes.

Valley Park Riding School in Templestowe caters for beginners right up to advanced riders. This privately run school offers lessons tailored to each individual's level of riding experience, with private, semi-private and group classes available. It even offers pony parties and a school holiday program for kids aged six to 13.   

Distance from CBD: 30 minutes.

For a scenic trot through the lush Dandenong Ranges, check out Alan Smallacombe Trail Rides. Established in 1958, they offer rides twice a day on Saturdays and Sundays that weave through the many tracks in the Doongalla Estate Forest Reserve. Prices start at $100 per person for one hour, and $150 per person for two hours. 

Distance from CBD: One hour.

With more than 40 years in the business, Gunnamatta Trail Rides is best known for its epic coastal rides along St Andrews Beach on the Mornington Peninsula. Whether it's a romantic twilight beach ride, early morning trot or scenic bush route, there's a trail to suit everyone. Plus, there are even packages that include trips to the Peninsula Hot Springs or St Andrews Beach Brewery. Most tours go for two hours – plenty of time, especially if you're not used to sitting in a saddle.

Distance from CBD: One hour and 30 hours.

For those seeking more of a long-distance ride, Chum Creek Horse Riding offers multi-day expeditions through the Yarra Ranges. You'll camp out in the Australian bush for two nights in huts, enjoying meals cooked over the campfire. How's that for a true blue experience? For those after something a bit less strenuous, Chum Creek also offers rides ranging between 1.5 hour and 2.5 hours. 

Distance from CBD: One hour and 30 minutes.

Just ten minutes from Daylesford, the family run Hepburn Lagoon Trail Rides offers a tailor-made experience by matching horses with the rider’s ability. Choose between a scenic two-hour ride through the countryside followed by a bite and a cool drink, or a five-hour pub ride to the historic Swiss Mountain Hotel for lunch. Keep in mind that all riders' blood alcohol limit must remain below 0.05 so they can ride back to the stables.

Distance from CBD: One hour and forty minutes.

Watson’s Mountain Country Trail Rides has the High Country at its doorstep and operates rides seven days a week, rain, hail or shine. The company has trails ranging from hour-long to seven-day treks designed around The Man From Snowy River. On these longer rides you'll visit the locations from the film and other heritage areas to get a historic account of the region. If all that riding sounds tiring, the experience includes cooked meals and incredible views to keep spirits up.

Distance from the CBD: Two hours and 45 minutes.