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Step into a four-week horsemanship journey with Gunnamatta Trail Rides in Fingal. Train, ride, and care for horses while traversing the wild landscapes of Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula.
Step into a four-week horsemanship journey with Gunnamatta Trail Rides in Fingal. Train, ride, and care for horses while traversing the wild landscapes of Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula.
Book with Gunnamatta Trail Rides
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Gunnamatta Trail Rides · Fingal, Victoria
Set against the rugged coastal backdrop of Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, Gunnamatta Trail Rides offers an immersive four-week Horsemanship Clinic that redefines what it means to connect with horses. Situated at 150 Sandy Rd, Fingal, this program invites horse lovers of all levels to engage deeply with the equestrian lifestyle—balancing rigorous training with hands-on care and riding.
The Mornington Peninsula is known for its diverse terrain, from sweeping ocean vistas to dense native bushland dominated by peppermint gums and banksias. These natural elements shape the riding experience here, where riders can hone their skills on varied trails, soaking in the fresh sea breeze and scents of the Australian bush.
Unlike standard trail rides, Gunnamatta’s Horsemanship Clinic offers a comprehensive curriculum tailored to individual needs, emphasizing health, nutrition, and behavior. Daily riding lessons in the arena are paired with trail rides lasting over two hours, offering exposure to real-world horse handling in natural settings. Instruction covers farrier and veterinary care, tack selection by discipline, float loading, and buying horses wisely—vital lessons for anyone serious about horse ownership.
This personalized approach, combined with flexible scheduling and one-on-one attention, makes Gunnamatta a standout destination for those eager to build confidence and competence with horses. The clinic strikes a rare balance—welcoming beginners and advancing seasoned riders alike—with an emphasis on safety, respect for the animal, and practical knowledge.
For locals and visitors alike, Gunnamatta Trail Rides is a cornerstone of the area’s outdoor offering, bridging the gap between nature and horsemanship. Here, the equestrian tradition is experienced responsibly, with a genuine connection to this unique Australian landscape.
moderate.
3 days to 4 weeks.
Basic physical fitness recommended to handle riding and stable work comfortably.
No previous experience is required; the program is tailored to accommodate beginners through advanced riders.
Training, riding techniques, horse health and nutrition, farrier and vet care, tack choices, horse buying advice, behavior interpretation, and safety practices.
The clinic offers flexible scheduling to suit your availability, with lessons typically running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Both – you’ll have daily arena lessons and trail rides up to two hours to develop confidence across environments.
The clinic welcomes all ages, adapting lessons to fit the rider’s level and goals.
Riding boots, a helmet, appropriate clothing for weather, sunscreen, and a positive attitude to learn are recommended.
The Mornington Peninsula has a rich Indigenous heritage and was later developed for farming and recreation; Gunnamatta is part of a long tradition of equestrian activity here.
Gunnamatta emphasizes sustainable horse management and minimizes environmental impact to protect the native bushland and coastal ecosystems.
Gunnamatta Trail Rides is a horseback riding operator based in Fingal, Victoria that provides guided trail rides, lessons and horsemanship programs along coastal and nearby inland terrain. The business offers beach rides to St Andrews Beach, private and group sessions, a Family Play introduction for children aged 6–12 with parents or carers, one-on-one private lessons structured across three skill levels, and multi-day horsemanship clinics including one-day and immersive three-day options plus an extended four-week package. Riders are asked to arrive early for safety briefings and gear fitting; many activities continue rain or shine. Experienced instructors lead shore and dune rides, clinic sessions and private lessons that focus on riding technique, horse care and confidence-building. Signature packages combine a beach ride with local experiences such as the Peninsula Hot Springs or a meal at St Andrews Beach Brewery. Private bookings include tailored early-bird and group options to suit different riding levels and schedules. Gunnamatta Trail Rides emphasizes horse welfare and participant safety through supervised grooming, arena work for beginners, and clear instructor guidance during trail and beach rides. Programs are suitable for families, adults seeking private coaching, and riders wanting structured progression or concentrated horsemanship training. Flexible scheduling and a range of single-day and extended packages support both casual visitors and those exploring horse ownership and long-term skill development. Notable offerings include Mane Insights, Family Play, 1:1 Private Lesson, Horsemanship Clinic (one-day and three-day options), Horsemanship Clinic 4-week Package, St Andrews Beach Ride, Private St Andrews Beach Ride, Beach & Bathe Package. Available.
Book with Gunnamatta Trail Rides