Cardrona Valley: High Country Pub Horse Trek & Mountain Ride

Summary

Ride Cardrona’s hills then clink glasses at the old pub

You’ll saddle up in Cardrona Valley and ride into real high country—trotting or cantering across open land with mountain views all around. Stop at the historic Cardrona Hotel for a drink (it’s included), swap stories with your guide, then follow the river home. Expect laughter, maybe sore legs—and that feeling you only get after doing something bold.

What’s the experience like?

I felt a weird mix of nerves and excitement as we saddled up in Cardrona Valley—my boots already a bit muddy from the morning. Our guide, Anna, sized us up with that look only horse people have, then matched me to a chestnut named Rusty. He snorted when I tried to pat his nose (maybe he sensed I was more city than country). The air smelled sharp, almost like wild thyme crushed underfoot, and sheep called out somewhere behind us. We started climbing right away—no gentle warm-up here—which made my thighs burn but also made me laugh. I guess that’s what you get on a real high country horse trek.

The ride wasn’t just walking—far from it. Anna kept checking if we were ready to trot or canter, and honestly, I surprised myself by saying yes. There’s this moment when you’re moving faster than you think you should be, wind in your face, hooves thudding over tussock grass, and you just let go of worrying if you look ridiculous. The mountains around—the Pisa Range especially—felt close enough to touch some moments, then suddenly far away again as clouds shifted. At one point my hat nearly flew off (should’ve tightened that strap), but Anna just grinned and shouted something about “proper Kiwi riding.”

We dropped down toward the river—cold spray flicked up as Rusty splashed through—and then suddenly there it was: the Cardrona Hotel. It looks straight out of an old photo: faded sign, red trim, people laughing on the porch. We tied up outside like something from a western and went in for a drink (included in the ride). My hands were still buzzing from holding the reins so tight; cider never tasted so good. Someone played an old tune on the piano inside. I didn’t expect to feel so at home in such a random place.

The way back followed the river—more trotting, more cantering if you wanted (my legs said no thanks by then). Sun came out for a minute and everything glowed gold against dark clouds. Anna told stories about local farmers losing boots in spring mud; she made it sound like an adventure instead of a hassle. I still think about that view coming down into the valley—a kind of tired happiness mixed with wanting to do it all over again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horse riding trek and pub visit

• Ride up into the mountains
• Trotting and cantering opportunities
• Cross river to Cardrona Hotel
• Stop for a drink at pub
• Ride back along the river

Top questions

How long is the Cardrona High Country Pub horse trek?

The trek is a half-day experience starting near Wanaka and includes riding up into the mountains and back via Cardrona Hotel.

Is previous horse riding experience required?

No prior experience is needed; tuition is provided. However, riders must be comfortable with trotting and cantering.

Are children allowed on this horse trek?

This ride isn’t recommended for small children; families should check out “The Gold Discovery Trail” instead.

What should I wear for the Cardrona horse trek?

Dress appropriately for changing weather conditions; helmets are provided for safety.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at the trekking base near Wanaka.

Is lunch included during the ride?

No lunch is included, but a beverage at Cardrona Hotel is part of the tour.

Will there be opportunities to trot or canter?

Yes, there are many chances for trotting and cantering during this ride—it’s not just walking.

Can pregnant travelers join this trek?

No, this tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers due to its active nature.

What’s included

Your day includes use of helmet for safety, guidance from a professional local guide who’ll match you to your horse based on ability (so mention your riding level when booking), plus a drink at the historic Cardrona Hotel before heading back along the river trail.