Scenic Ride, 1 To 3 Hours

Cromwell: Scenic Horseback with Lake & Mountain Views

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from $176 per person

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Duration: 1 to 3 hours (options)
Meeting point: Cromwell
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
Run by: The Sunday Country Club

Overview

The Sunday Country Club runs guided horse treks through the countryside around Cromwell, in Central Otago. Riders pick from three routes: a gentle one-hour loop suited to families and first-timers, a two-hour ride through rolling hills and fruit orchards, and a three-hour trek that climbs to the highest point on the property for full panoramic views. All three are group experiences led by an experienced guide on well-trained horses.

The short ride stays at a walking pace and looks out over Cromwell, Lake Dunstan and the surrounding mountains. The two-hour option pushes further into the backcountry, with views of Lake Dunstan and the Mt Pisa Range along the way. The three-hour trek suits confident riders: it crosses golden hills, valleys and orchards, and includes chances to trot and canter.

Hotel pickup and drop-off is not included, so travellers make their own way to the property. Food, drinks, tips and personal expenses are also excluded. Rides can be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Late afternoon on a dry hillside above a wide valley near Cromwell: a few riders on horses seen from far behind following a dusty track between schist rocks and thyme-coloured scrub, pale blue lake and bare brown hills in the distance.

What's Included

Included

Guided horseback riding experience
Well-trained horse
Professional and experienced guide
Group experience
Riding route based on the selected trek
Scenic Central Otago countryside experience

Not Included

Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food and drinks
Personal expenses
Tips and gratuities

Itinerary

Arrive at the propertyMake your own way to the meeting point, since hotel pickup and drop-off is not included. Luggage and large bags are not allowed on the ride.
Meet guide and horseAn experienced guide matches each rider with a well-trained horse and covers the route for the trek selected.
One-hour family rideA relaxed walking-pace ride with views of Cromwell, Lake Dunstan and the surrounding mountains. Best for families and beginners.
Two-hour orchard rideAn alternative option travelling through rolling hills and fruit orchards, with views of Lake Dunstan and the Mt Pisa Range.
Three-hour summit trekThe advanced option for experienced riders, crossing golden hills, valleys and orchards to the property's highest point for 360-degree views, with opportunities to trot and canter.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will help riders arrive prepared and pick the right trek length.

On a summer evening, riders on horses cross dry grass past schist gate posts near Cromwell, dust rising among wilding pines.

What to wear. Long pants, closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes are recommended. High heels, sandals and flip flops are not allowed.
Pace and ability. The one-hour ride stays at a walking pace and suits beginners and families. Trotting and cantering happen only on the three-hour trek, which is directed at experienced riders.
Group format. Every option is a group ride with a professional guide. Riders should be comfortable sharing the trail and the pace with others.
Food and drink. Food and drinks are not included and are listed as excluded. Bring anything you want to eat or drink with you, since nothing is provided on the trek.
Photos and sun. Bringing a camera and sunglasses is suggested. Riders can take in views of Lake Dunstan and the Mt Pisa Range along the routes.
Getting there. Hotel pickup and drop-off is not included. Travellers need to arrange their own transport to and from the property.

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Common issues. The main practical limits are as follows. There is no hotel pickup or drop-off, no food or drink provided, and tips plus personal expenses are extra. Riders must wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, and luggage or large bags cannot be brought along. The faster riding, trotting and cantering, is reserved for the experienced three-hour trek, so beginners should not expect anything beyond a walking pace.

Common Questions

How Long Are The Horse Treks?

There are three options: a 1-hour ride, a 2-hour ride and a 3-hour trek. The short ride suits families and beginners, while the 3-hour trek is aimed at experienced riders.

Is Hotel Pickup Included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off is listed under Not Included, so travellers arrange their own transport to the property.

Is This Tour Suitable For Beginners?

Yes. The 1-hour ride is described as perfect for families and beginners, travelling at a relaxed walking pace. Trotting and cantering are only offered on the 3-hour trek for experienced riders.

What Should I Wear And Bring?

Wear long pants, closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes, and bring sunglasses and a camera. High heels, sandals, flip flops, luggage and large bags are not allowed.

Is Food Or Drink Provided?

No. Food and drinks are excluded, as are tips and personal expenses. Bring anything you want to eat or drink with you.

What Is The Cancellation Policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Terms beyond that are not stated.