Pub Trail Trek, Intermediate Level
Cardrona High Country Pub Trail Horse Trek (Intermediate level+)
from $396.54 per person
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- Duration
- 3 hours 30 minutes
- Meeting point
- The Cardrona
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- On board
- A beverage included
- Run by
- The Cardrona
Overview
The trek runs for 3.5 hours and is capped at 7 travellers, with a professional guide leading the group and a helmet provided for every rider. Along the way the route crosses farmland where reviewers have passed sheep, cattle and deer, with valley views opening up as the track climbs.
A drink at the historic Cardrona Hotel is part of the experience: riders tie their horses up outside and go in for a beer or another beverage, which is included in the tour. Several travellers describe this pub stop as a highlight in itself. The pace suits riders with some confidence, since trotting and cantering happen in designated safer stretches, and the operator states plainly that this ride is not recommended for beginners or small children. The Gold Discovery Trail is the alternative for newer riders.
Guides match each person to a horse based on the riding ability stated at booking, so travellers are asked to specify their experience level when reserving. The ride finishes back at the meeting point, and the whole thing operates in all weather, so dressing for the conditions matters.
What's Included
Included
- Beverage
- Professional guide
- Use of helmet
Not Included
- Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Itinerary
- Arrive at the baseCheck in at 2125 Cardrona Valley Road, Cardrona, signposted for The Cardrona Horse Treks & Quad Tours near the Bra Fence. The tour departs at 12:30 and the operator cannot wait for late arrivals.
- Mount upGuides fit helmets and match riders to horses based on the ability level given at booking. Total duration is 3.5 hours.
- Ride the high countryFollow tracks up into the hills above the Cardrona Valley, passing farmland with sheep, cattle and deer. Trotting and cantering happen in designated safer areas.
- Pub stop at the Cardrona HotelTie the horses outside and go in for an included beverage at the historic hotel. Souvenir photos can be bought separately.
- Return to the baseThe ride ends back at the meeting point on Cardrona Valley Road.
What To Expect From The Tour
A few practical points shape how this trek goes, from the self drive to the riding pace and the weather.
- 2 to 3.5 Hour Cardrona Trek$277
- Small-Group Gold Discovery Trek$311.44
- Pub Trail Trek, Intermediate Level (this tour)$396.54
- Getting there. You make your own way to the base on Cardrona Valley Road, roughly twenty minutes' drive from Wanaka and 50 to 55 minutes from Queenstown. The meeting point is signposted for The Cardrona Horse Treks & Quad Tours, near the Bra Fence. Arrive on time, because the operator will not wait and late arrivals get no refund.
- Riding level and pace. This trek is aimed at intermediate riders and up, and it is not for beginners or small children. Riders state their ability at booking so suitable horses are chosen. Trotting and cantering happen in designated safer areas, and the pace is adjusted to the group's overall skill.
- Weather and clothing. The tour runs in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately. One traveller was caught in drizzle and was lent waterproof clothing by the operator, but bringing your own wet weather gear is sensible. Strong physical fitness is recommended.
- Group size. The maximum group is 7 travellers. Several reviewers mention guides managing groups with a wide range of riding experience and giving everyone attention within that cap.
- Food and drink. One beverage at the Cardrona Hotel is included, along with the guide and helmet. Souvenir photos are not included and can be purchased separately, so budget for those if you want them.
Common issues. The operator is strict about punctuality: no waiting for late arrivals and no refunds for no shows. The ride is not wheelchair accessible, is not recommended for travellers with back problems or pregnancy, and asks for strong physical fitness, so it is a poor fit for beginners, small children or anyone with serious medical conditions. Reviews note the pace depends on the group's overall skill. Weather can turn wet, and poor conditions may force cancellation, in which case a different date or a full refund is offered. A minimum number of travellers is required, and if it is not met you get an alternative date or experience, or a full refund.
Common Questions
What Is Included In The Price?
A beverage at the Cardrona Hotel, a professional guide, and use of a helmet are all included. Souvenir photos are available to purchase but not included.
Is Hotel Pickup Provided?
No. The tour starts at the meeting point on Cardrona Valley Road, a twenty minute self drive from Wanaka or 50 to 55 minutes from Queenstown. You need to arrange your own transport.
Can Beginners Or Children Join This Trek?
This ride is not recommended for beginners or small children, and newer riders are pointed to The Gold Discovery Trail instead. Children who do ride must be accompanied by an adult. Travellers should have a strong physical fitness level.
What Happens If The Weather Is Bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so you should dress appropriately. If the operator cancels due to poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What Is The Cancellation Policy?
Cancel at least 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before start time are not refunded or accepted. There is also a minimum traveller requirement, and if it is not met you get a different date or experience, or a full refund.
What Should I Bring And Wear?
Dress for the conditions, including wet weather gear, since the ride runs regardless of weather. Specify your riding ability when booking so the right horse is matched to you. Money is useful if you want to buy souvenir photos.
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