What an experience! My daughter loves horses. It was her dream to go on a "real" horse ride, and we were able to make that dream come true at Watson's while we stayed at Mansfield.

Three of us ended up going on the 2 hour trail ride - 2 children and ME! Just amazing. I have had a little experience with horses when I was younger but this was scary at first and then just totally exhilarating. The horses looked large, but they went to the utmost trouble to match each rider with their horses. My big beautiful copper coloured guy was the best.

It was $80 per person, and there are different rides and prices from very small children up to days-long high country adventures for good riders which includes camping etc.

The people at Watson's are totally professional. Before we started each person was fitted out in the right safety gear and shown various things about the horse and how to do the standing up in the saddle. They were mostly guiding us in single file along this lovely bush track, up and down hills and the horses were professional about their work too.

We got to try trotting, canter and even a little gallop. I got a bit of a scraped calf from the friction but next time I'll wear boots. So worth it.

We didn't stop talking about it for ages afterward. A wonderful experience and a highly recommended business.

Approximate cost: $80 2 hour trail ride - other options available