A Back Country Journey Through Middle-Earth
This gem of a holiday is situated one hour from Queenstown in the cute-as-a-button lakeside community of Glenorchy. With five days of unrestricted hours in the saddle, this ride has it all: wet and wild canters along riverbanks, wandering through native beech forests, circumnavigating a mountain, and exploring a quintessential High Country property.
Exclusive to Globetrotting
Rides hand crafted at GT HQ, available only to Globetrotters.
Trip Highlights
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Staying in a rustic, backcountry hut in the middle of nowhere
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Cantering through moss-laden native beech forests
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Riding through scenes straight out of The Lord of the Rings
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Splish splashing across shimmering turquoise lakes
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Meeting graziers who have been farming in the back country for generations
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Crisp, quiet mountain nights pin-pricked by glimmering stars
Details
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Riding levels
Suitable for intermediate to advanced riders. All riders MUST be confident riding outside an arena at all paces over uneven ground.
Please note, this is a hands-on ride. You’ll be expected to help with catching, grooming, saddling and unsaddling the horses each day.Not sure what your riding ability is? See the definitions below.
- Type of tack
English all-purpose saddles and bridles. *Please be advised, a select few horses are ridden in Western saddles simply because they provide a better fit for that specific horse, but saddle requests cannot be accommodated. It is much preferred to match horses to riders based on ability. Thanks for your understanding.
- Horse breed
NZ Stationbred, Quarter Horse and first cross, Percheron, Gypsy Cob and Clydie first cross.
- Accommodation
Accommodation begins with bunk rooms and shared bathroom facilities, followed by two nights of rustic backcountry camping with stretchers, swags and basic amenities, and finishes in historic lodge-style accommodation at Paradise Homestead with modern comforts.
- Pace
This will vary depending on the terrain and weather conditions. Some days are more mountainous than others. When the terrain permits, there will be opportunities to trot and canter but this may not be every day.
- Weight limit
A strict maximum of 90kg / 198lbs. Please be advised, on day 1, all guests will be weighed before being matched with a horse and permitted to ride.
It is VERY important that you provide your current weight accurately when booking. If your weight is not accurate, we cannot guarantee that your hosts will have a horse for you to ride.
- Group size
A minimum of 6 and a maximum of 10 guests.
- Minimum age
12 years of age
- Time in Saddle
On average, 5 to 6 hours per day, depending on the distance needing to be travelled (between 15 and 25km per day).
- When to go
November to March.
- Languages
English
What’s included (and what’s not)
Included
- Twin share accommodation
- Transfers to and from Queenstown
- All riding activities outlined in the itinerary
- All meals, from first day lunch through to last day lunch
Excluded
- International or regional flights
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Alcohol
Departure dates and prices
Instalment plans available
Lock in your ride with a 10% deposit and pay the rest over time – interest-free in 10 easy payments. Learn more.
Per person
2026
November 2 to 6, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
November 9 to 13, 2026
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November 16 to 20, 2026
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November 23 to 27, 2026
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November 30 to December 4, 2026
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December 7 to 11, 2026
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December 14 to 18, 2026
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2027
January 11 to 15, 2027
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January 18 to 22, 2027
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January 25 to 29, 2027
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February 1 to 5, 2027
February 15 to 19, 2027
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February 22 to 26, 2027
March 8 to 12, 2027
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
March 15 to 19, 2027
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
We'll email you — you'll be among the first to hear when new departure dates are released.
The fun bits
Payment details
- A fixed Booking Fee of $183 NZD
- All bookings are charged in the local currency of the ride destination.
- Accepted payment method is by credit or debit card only.
Cancellation policy
We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel your ride, please let us know as soon as possible. Cancellation fees apply based on how close your departure date is, and deposits are non-refundable. We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your booking. Read our full cancellation policy.
International fees
If you're paying in a currency different from your own, your bank may charge a conversion or international transaction fee.
Itinerary
Please note, this is a suggested itinerary only and subject to change at the discretion of your guides due to weather and other influencing factors.
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Day 1: Rees Valley Station
5 to 6 hours in the saddleAfter enjoying the scenic transfer from Queenstown to the Glenorchy stables, you’ll be introduced to your knowledgable back country guides. The staff will help sort your baggage and gear before introducing you to your horse for the trip. Gear checked, you’ll ride alongside the pristine Rees River flats and enjoy a lunchtime picnic on the tip of Lake Wakatipu with views across the water to the local township of Glenorchy. After lunch you’ll head to the opening of the Rees Valley.
Your first night’s accommodation will be at the Rees Valley Station shearers’ quarters. The woolshed here is still the hub of the station and is worth a peek. Panels of photographs and information inside the woolshed explain some of the history of the station and the people who work it. The shearers’ quarters has bunk bedrooms, flushing toilets, showers and electricity. Keep in mind, in summer the sun doesn’t set until around 11pm, so you’ll have plenty of daylight hours to roam around on foot after dinner.
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Day 2: Rees Valley
4 to 5 hours in the saddleAfter a leisurely breakfast, you’ll start your journey into the dramatic, pristine environment of Rees Valley. Rees Valley Station is rated one of the area’s most scenic places to ride. This 37,000 acre sheep station borders the World Heritage-listed Mount Aspiring National Park. You and your fellow globetrotters will travel through virgin native rainforest (NZ beech), crossing over a glacier-fed river many times. This is a shorter day, but it’s a challenge for both horse and rider. Enjoy the climb up glacial terraces with snow-capped mountains looming high above.
Tonight you will camp at Arthurs Creek musterers hut for a night under the stars. This is camping in its simplest form: there is a musterers hut (the main hub of the campsite) and inside your tents you’ll find a camp stretcher and swag for you to sleep in. There is a long-drop toilet, glacer-fed waterfall (freezing, but oh so good for the skin) and a hot camp shower.
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Day 3: 25-mile creek & Lennox Falls
4 hours in the saddleToday is spent exploring the very top of the valley, which borders Mount Aspiring National Park. You’ll visit 25 Mile Creek and the rock chasm within, swim the horses in glacier-fed Hunter Creek (weather permitting), stand at the foot of the gorgeous Lennox Falls and enjoy a saddlebag-packed lunch at the grassy base of the Falls. There will be time to explore here by foot before riding back to your base camp at Arthurs Creek musterers hut.
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Day 4: Paradise Valley
5 to 6 hours in the saddleIt’s time to leave the Rees Valley, riding into Paradise Valley. You’ll wander through native beech forest towards the opening of Paradise Valley, which is better known as Heaven’s Gate. From here you’ll traverse the north shores of Diamond Lake, and there may be the possibility of swimming the horses again if you wish.
Coming into Paradise Valley, you are entering LORD OF THE RINGS COUNTRY! This is Isengard and Middle Earth. Your guides will take you through scenes and places used in many movies including The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Vertical Limit, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, Lovely Bones, Mission Impossible, Wolverine and more. This is some of the most pristine back country you could ever hope to travel through.
On your last night you’ll stay in Millers House, which is a beautiful, turn-of-the-century house within the Paradise Foundation. After bush camping for the last two nights, you’ll love the hot showers, flushing toilets, electricity and freshly made beds.
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Day 5: Lake Diamond and Mount Alfred
5 hours in the saddleOn the final day of your riding holiday, you’ll venture through the mouth of Lake Diamond and ascend the southern side of Mount Alfred. At the top of the track, you’ll be able to take a moment and contemplate where and what you have just experienced over the last few days. As far as the eye can see – and further – is where you have travelled astride your surefooted station horse. Finally, you’ll creep down the mountain and back onto your hosts’ farm to finish the trip with a welcome hot drink or cold beverage.*Depending on the weather, you might instead venture into the Dart Valley today – the views and scenery are equally rewarding.
Transfer information
Transfers to and from your Queenstown hotel accommodation are included in the price (on day one and day five). To avoid travel delays, we ask that all guests arrive and stay in Queenstown (at their own expense) the day before the ride begins, so you’re ready for collection between 8.30am and 9-9.30am (traffic depending) on day one. On day five, please book an extra night’s accommodation in Queenstown so you’re not rushed getting back into town. You can fly out the following day.
Please note
It is preferred you stay in Queenstown’s city centre or out in the direction of Fernhill, NOT at Frankton. Should you choose to stay at a private residence or B&B, you will need to make your way to the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Queenstown by 8.30am for pick up on day 1.
Accommodation
For the first night, you’ll stay in bunk bed rooms, with a hot shower and flushing toilets in a separate building a minute’s walk away. The following two nights, you’ll stay in tents (with camp stretchers and swags) at a back country camp beside a station muster hut, with a camp shower and a long-drop toilet. The facilities are rustic, but clean – this is real camping, not ‘glamping’. The last night is spent at Paradise Homestead in historic, bespoke accommodation with beds, hot showers, flushing toilets and kitchen.
Rees Valley Shearers Quarters
Rees Valley Camping
Paradise Homestead
Reviews
Joanne A
Aislinn C
Melina B
Amy P
Kelsey I
Sam Z
Anne S
Patricia Y
Dagmar S
Shirley-Ann M
Lynette E
Nina O
Louise V
Demi N
Alana R
Penelope K
Claire H
Alison C
Kelly H
Jeanette H
Ruby I
Eszter H
Lee R
Eleanor V
Aliza V
Rae G
Tenille L
Jess R
Lauren H
Yuen C
Samantha P
Carolyn S
Jesmond S
Susie O
Rachel G
Nadeen M
Shar-ron H
Anne C
Marina L
Lisa B
Susan R
Meegan B
Jacqui B
Jan G
Jackie C
Lyndal M
Raewyn B
Sharon R
Lisa M
Rebecca T
Catherine P
Sheryl G
Gillian T
Carolyn R
Annie H
Elisa E
Brielle H
Jacqui S
Marie D
Dawn L
Leonie M
Kath J
Sarah M
Keira M
Alexandra G
Alison G
Ellenor N
Carolyn H
68 reviews
Joanne A
‘The Glenorchy Back Country Ride was my first Globetrotting experience, and I can’t wait for the next one! Our wonderful guides, Jess and Bijmin, were the perfect combination – warm human beings who totally cared about our safety and comfort, and that of our horses. They were totally dedicated to the mission of making this the best experience ever for each and every of one us. And boy can they cook!! The horses were sound, well cared-for and ready and willing to be full participants in our adventure. The trip was laid out wonderfully with awe-inspiring landscapes and special adventures each day. The stand-out experience was when we got to swim our horses in the river and later play in the spray of an amazing waterfall. Deana and Casey run a wonderful outfit and I would totally recommend them to anyone who loves to ride. This has been an experience of a lifetime!’
Aislinn C
This was the best 50th present I could have ever given myself. It exceeded my expectations in so many ways and helped to reunite me with my adventurous self from my youth. I fell in love with NZ and the horse I road. I would have totally put Slim Shady in my suitcase and taken him home if I could!
Melina B
We had the most incredible group of people, and our guides were outstanding—so informative about the history of the land and the horses, while remaining warm, friendly, and approachable. The Glenorchy backcountry ride offered the most magical scenery I have ever experienced, and being able to take it all in from horseback made it even more special. From riding bareback through a glacier‑fed creek, to arriving at camp after a full day in the saddle, laughing and getting to know one another over a beautifully cooked meal—every moment felt unforgettable. Sharing lunch breaks while feeding treats to my horse, strengthening our bond, enjoying long, exhilarating canters, and being surrounded by picture‑perfect mountains made this experience truly once in a lifetime.
Amy P
I had THE most amazing adventure on this ride and I cannot recommend it highly enough! Our guides – Alex, Emily and Jose, really went above and beyond to make sure each rider was happy with their horse, comfortable throughout the ride and that our safety was paramount. I felt that they became part of the group, and we all bonded with laughter and stories and the shared love of being outdoors on horseback.
Our group lucked out with perfect weather for 95% of the time, the nights were chilly, but the days were warm and I was always the last one out of the water, despite its glacial temperature! A few of our group didn’t want to swim with the horses, but with some encouragement, everyone made it in and they were so glad they did – don’t let the cold turn you off as it’s so much fun!
As a vegetarian, there were delicious options available for me, and you certainly never went hungry as there was always so much food.
The worst thing about this ride is that it is over too quickly! This was a present to myself for my 50th birthday and it’s going to be hard to top.
Kelsey I
Riding through the backcountry of New Zealand was a dream! I don’t believe I’ll ever ride across such breathtaking scenery. From glacial river crossings to meadows surrounded by snowcapped mountains, there is nothing like this. Being off-the-grid and surrounded by new friends is healing for the soul. The guides went above and beyond with their hospitality, and the accommodations were delightful (even the most rugged one!). I already miss my beautiful mare Peso, who was a dream. I am so glad to have had this adventure with a phenomenal horse and new friends in such a magical place.
Sam Z
‘An excellent, worth-every-cent back country trek. Brilliant horses, great saddles, faultless guides, and yummy food—plenty of it. A variety of accommodation, from shearers’ quarters to tents to a top-end lodge. Highly organised. I would recommend it to anyone with intermediate and above riding ability.’
Anne S
‘I celebrated my 70th birthday in the most perfect way on the Glenorchy Back Country Ride. Magnificent scenery, a most beautiful horse, fabulous guides ,really friendly fellow guests, delicious food, truly an unforgettable experience!’
Patricia Y
‘Wow, just wow! This was my first trip to New Zealand, and the scenery is simply stunning! The riding was fantastic, and we were fortunate to have just about perfect weather. Our guides were so knowledgeable and worked hard to ensure that the horses, the tack, the food, and the accommodations were all good. I rode Rusty, who was sure-footed and would get up and go when I asked but never got hot or pushy. Swimming with the horses is amazing, and galloping up the mountain on the second-to-last day was a memory that I’ll keep forever!
Dagmar S
‘It was such a privilege to be able to ride my experienced, big, and beautiful chestnut gelding, Gizzy, through flowing glacial waters, up and down the rollercoaster forest near Mount Earnslaw, along tracks skirting the Rees River, over wide grassy plains and rocky dry riverbeds. Riding into the small village of Paradise, where we stayed in a fabulous and comfortable historic homestead, was special. Many thanks to our hands-on guides, who looked after the horses, showed us interesting tracks while looking after a bunch of diverse women, and explained the spectacular scenery of Rees Valley Station and the Dart River area. A trip to be remembered for a long time.’
Shirley-Ann M
‘The Glenorchy Ride was an amazing experience! The scenery was spectacular; the horses were safe and reliable, and the guides were knowledgeable about the history and the environment in which we were riding. They went above and beyond with the cooking and presentation of the food we were served, which was delicious! Our accommodations were comfortable, and Paradise was indeed paradise! Would I do it again? Heck yes!’
Lynette E
‘Wow! What a magical experience. Open country, climbing mountain trails, crossing beautiful, crystal-clear rivers in stunning scenery. All three guides were very helpful, caring, and understanding; they were fun characters, good conversationalists, and very easy to communicate with. They were full of information and great cooks. I enjoyed all the accommodation; it was so fun camping out and sharing with others. That’s how you really get to know one another! Great people enjoying a common love and bond with horses—what more could you ask for?’
Nina O
‘Imagine riding these magnificent creatures as you explore the lush landscapes, stopping to take in panoramic views that will leave you in awe. One of the highlights of this ride is the unique opportunity to swim with the horses—a magical moment that will truly stay with me forever. It was like stepping into a dream! The beauty, the connection with the horses, and the adventure—I will never forget it! I rode an exceptional Clyde cross named Kumara; he looked after me every step of the way. I can be a very nervous rider at times, but on this horse, I didn’t feel nervous for a moment. His footing never failed to amaze me; all the horses on the trek were perfectly suited to each rider, and I can’t find any fault with them. This was a bucket list adventure that I will never forget. The memories made and friendships formed will last a lifetime.’
Louise V
‘The Glenorchy ride was absolutely breathtaking; I can’t begin to explain how amazing this ride was. From the beautiful horses that were quiet, sure-footed, and fit—I wish I could have fitted my boy in my suitcase—to the knowledgeable and helpful guides, nothing was an issue. I rode Tank; he was a one-in-a-million ‘unicorn.’ I even offered to buy him, but was basically told to get in line! Our guides were all very knowledgeable and down-to-earth, making the experience even more enjoyable. I would not hesitate to do this ride again and again and again!
Demi N
‘What an amazing trip! I couldn’t rate it more highly; the views were stunning, with beautiful accommodations and lots to see and do. The guides were 10/10. They were all very knowledgeable (both about horses and the area/environment) and made the ride really fun. They put up with our crude jokes and outrageous personalities and were extremely accommodating. They all clearly are very passionate about their jobs and about the welfare of the horses. We had a fantastic group of ladies who were all solo travellers, except for my mum and me. The horses were awesome at their jobs and were so well cared for by the whole team. The horses were well-matched to each rider, and everyone’s abilities were catered for. I loved swimming with the horses and getting to go for decent canters when the track allowed. The final night at Paradise was also a huge highlight, as there was plenty to see, and I felt so relaxed there.’
Alana R
‘I had high expectations and hopes for this ride. For a few years now, I have wanted to book it but always missed out on a seat, and now I know why! This ride has it all: the most amazing scenery (from the moment you get picked up from Queenstown, it’s jaw-dropping), horses, and guides. The views are phenomenal, from the lush green rolling hills to the snow-capped mountain peaks. Our guides were simply superb! They were so knowledgeable regarding the area and the horses; they truly cared for the horses and us, and were sociable. They really made this the most enjoyable trip I have ever been on. I loved the river crossings, the lunch stops with a view, the long canters, swimming the horses in a glacier-fed stream, the laughs with the guides and fellow globetrotters, and most surprisingly for me, the two nights of proper camping at Arthur’s Hut. The peacefulness that came with falling asleep to the sound of a waterfall located at the back of the camp and being able to truly switch off was indescribable. Thank you!’
Penelope K
‘The Glenorchy Back Country Ride was a true travel highlight for me! This experience allowed me to completely switch off from the stresses of life and immerse myself in the breathtaking landscapes of the region. They say your first Globetrotting ride is usually your favourite, and up until now, that was true for me. However, this Glenorchy adventure has certainly challenged it for the top spot. The trip was filled with stunning, surprising scenery, and every day brought something new to marvel at. The team took exceptional care of us, and the other riders were all wonderful—bonding over our shared love of adventure made the experience even more special. I was lucky enough to travel with a friend I met on a previous ride, but this is absolutely a trip you could do solo and still have an incredible time. It’s no surprise this exclusive Globetrotting ride books out quickly—it’s truly unforgettable. As soon as you see dates pop up, get booking. You won’t regret it! Honestly, it’s tempting to do it all over again.’
Claire H
‘Trekking through Glenorchy High Country on a reliable NZ stationbred horse was the best experience. Each day was different, and the scenery was spectacular! Swimming with the horses was a highlight, and riding along the Rees and Dart rivers was just beautiful. It ticked all the boxes!’
Alison C
‘I had been sitting on the fence about this ride. But, after seeing all the amazing photos shared by other globetrotters, I finally decided to go for it. And let me tell you, it was totally worth it! The ride was just as amazing as everyone had said it would be. The horses were absolutely wonderful, the scenery was breathtaking, and the guides, accommodations, and food were all top-notch. I rode Peso, a gorgeous mare, and by the third day, we had formed a special connection. She has been my favourite trail horse so far. New Zealand is such a special place, and this ride truly captures the beauty of it all. So, if you’re thinking about it, just go ahead and book it. Trust me, you won’t regret it! Just make sure your phone has plenty of storage space for all the incredible photos you’ll take.’
Kelly H
‘The Glenorchy Back Country Ride was amazing. Our guides took great care of our group and the horses, as well as keeping us very well fed. I enjoyed getting to know them and would happily have them as guides again. My horse, Murphy, was strong and confident, and I always felt safe with him, no matter the terrain. The group of fellow riders were interesting, and I would love to ride with them again. The scenery was breathtaking, and it felt as though I was riding through the Lord of the Rings movies. Bareback riding was a new challenge for me, and I was nervous, but with encouragement and support from my guides, I did it! I felt incredibly proud of myself. I will never forget the experience or the kind encouragement that made it possible. The trip was well-organized in all aspects, and I am already looking forward to my next Globetrotting ride.’
Jeanette H
‘I had an absolutely brilliant week on the Glenorchy backcountry ride. It was a remote and rustic experience, immersed in pristine nature and its elements. The guides were knowledgeable, diligent, and trustworthy, and the horses were well-kept, fit, and forward-moving, excelling at their work. I rode a mare called Peso, who was an absolute delight. Camping at Arthurs Creek was a real highlight, and despite the lack of power, town water, and reception, it still felt like a special place. On day five, the weather was rough, but we all chose to push through and take the planned route rather than a shorter one. It helped that we trusted our guides’ judgment entirely. This was my favourite ride of all, as we came across a different river system and saw quite different landscapes. There’s no better way to see Middle Earth than in the mist and rain. The ride felt like a real mission, even if not quite Tolkienian in scale. It always makes a difference when you have great company. All I can say is, on the four Globetrotting rides I have done, I’ve never had anything but great company. These rides are the best levellers, and everyone seems to want to share their own fascinating experience, wisdom, and brand of kindness. Thanks again, Globetrotting. I put all my trust in your style, priorities, planning, information, and care, and it keeps paying off!’
What's my riding level?
Not sure what your riding level is? Watch our videos to see all our levels.
Beginner
Reasonably confident riding a horse at a walk, a rising trot, and learning to canter.
Intermediate
Confident and in control riding at all paces outside an arena, but not riding regularly. Comfortable and competent using aids {the language of your leg, seat and hands} to communicate with your horse.
Strong Intermediate
An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly outside of an arena and is fit enough to ride for at least six hours per day. Strong intermediate riders are comfortable and competent in all three gaits; able to post or sit to the trot; have an independent seat while cantering (don’t hold onto the saddle); and can pick up the correct canter lead. They can also navigate more complex terrain, including asking a horse to sidestep and jump over a small obstacle.
Advanced
A frequent rider who is very fit, comfortable in the saddle for at least six hours per day, and has an independent seat and soft hands. Advanced riders are confident on a forward-moving horse at all paces over rough and variable ground on open terrain. They can ride over small jumps and know the techniques used to collect a horse
Not sure? Contact our team to help you figure out your riding ability.
Stories from the saddle
Meet a Globetrotter: Judy Calder
When we received feedback from Judy Calder following her first-ever Globetrotting horse riding holiday, the Glenorchy Back Country Ride in New Zealand, we knew her story deserved to be shared. Completing this iconic horseback riding adventure at the age of 66, Judy embodies exactly what Globetrotting is about — proving that meaningful horse riding holidays…
