Dart Stables
Dart Stables has been operating since 1992 and has built a reputation for successfully catering for all riding abilities, from complete beginner to lifetime rider. Based in Glenorchy Dart Stables ride at the Head of Lake Wakatipu, across the Rees and Dart Rivers, through Paradise and up to Mount Aspiring National Park. This stunning part of the country has recently come to fame as its beauty was captured in the epic movie ‘The Lord of the Rings’.
The scenery in and around Glenorchy is spectacular – snow-capped mountains, lakes and crystal clear turquoise waters. We have a variety of horses to suit all level of rider and our experienced, knowledgeable team will match clients with a suitable mount, offering the opportunity for beginners to learn and the experienced to ride to their own capability.
For the health and well being of our horses we have a rider weight limit of 95kg.
Riding Options:
The River Wild
A beautiful 2 hour ride at the Head of Lake Wakatipu, on the delta flats between the Rees and Dart Rivers. Depending on the time of the year clients will be given the opportunity to make several river crossings.
The Ride is suitable for all ages, riding abilities and fitness. It leaves twice a day.
Self drivers to be at the Stables at 9.30am or 2.00pm.
Cost: $95 pp
Pick-up from Queenstown at 8.30am and 1.30pm.
Cost: $115pp
Length of trip, including the drive to/from Queenstown, is approximately 4 hours.
The Ride of the Rings
Be transported to Middle-earth astride your own steed!
Following the beautiful drive along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, passing Ithilien and stopping en-route to admire The Misty Mountains, you eventually arrive in Paradise where your 1 ½ hour ride begins. Winding through the golden woods of Lothlórien, passing Amon Hen, the track opens up and the ‘Golden Mile’ starts. From here the views of the Wizard’s Vale and the mighty peak of Methedras are breathtaking. A gradual descent takes riders down into Nan Curunír, finally dismounting at the base of Isengard.
Probably the most scenic horse ride in the world, and a must for The Lord of the Rings’ fans. Suitable for beginner riders.
Pick-up from Queenstown 8am and 1pm
Cost: $145 pp
Length of trip, including the drive to/from Queenstown, is approximately 5 hours
The Full Day
A stunning 5-6 hour ride to either the Rees Valley or Paradise, depending on the time of year and river crossings. The scenery is second to none.
A reasonable level of fitness and riding experience is required. The Ride leaves subject to minimum bookings. A picnic lunch is included in the price.
Self drivers to be at the Stables at 9.30am.
Cost: $205pp
Pick-up from Queenstown at 8.30am.
Cost: $225pp
Length of trip, including the drive to/from Queenstown, is approximately 9 hours.
An Overnight in Paradise
A typical Overnight takes you to Paradise, a 5-6 hour ride. Staying in Paradise’s tranquil beech forest you will have the opportunity to explore or just relax taking in the surrounding beauty. Day 2 you make your way back to the Stables along the Dart Valley, another 5-6 hour ride. All-in-all an unforgettable experience.
A reasonable level of fitness and riding experience is essential. The Ride leaves subject to minimum bookings. Accommodation and all meals are included in the price.
Self drivers to be at the Stables at 9.30am.
Cost: $475pp
Pick-up from Queenstown at 8.30am.
Cost: $495pp
Length of trip, including the drive to/from Queenstown, 2 days.
Contact
Coll Street
PO Box 47, Glenorchy
New Zealand
Phone: 03 442 5688
Fax 03 442 6045