BELLBRAE WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Two hours on horseback through the hidden forests of the Surf Coast
A two-hour guided trail ride from Spring Creek Horse Rides that takes experienced-beginner riders aged 12 and up into the Great Otway National Park—this guide explains what to expect, what to pack, and who can ride.
Two hours on horseback through the hidden forests of the Surf Coast.
Adventure brief
Two hours on horseback through the hidden forests of the Surf Coast
Departing from Spring Creek’s property in Bellbrae, between Geelong and the Great Ocean Road, this two-hour trail leads riders into stands of the Great Otway National Park and through parts of the Surf Coast that most beachgoers never see. It’s a longer option in Spring Creek’s lineup, built for riders 12 and older and offering plenty of opportunity to trot along sheltered tracks.
Spring Creek Horse Rides offers a compelling way to connect with one of Victoria’s most evocative natural landscapes: the Great Otway National Park. Situated in Bellbrae, between Geelong and the renowned Great Ocean Road, their two-hour horse trail ride delivers a dynamic journey through the heart of the Surf Coast’s lush hinterlands. This isn’t your average seaside adventure — riders aged 12 and above saddle up to traverse verdant forest tracks, slippery fern-lined gullies, and patches of ancient eucalyptus woodland that quietly pulsate with wildlife activity.
Great Otway National Park covers more than 100,000 hectares of rugged terrain, from towering rainforest pockets to windswept ridges. The ride duration allows time not only for steady trotting but also moments to pause and absorb views seldom seen by casual visitors. Spring Creek carefully curates this experience, balancing accessibility with authentic immersion. The property at 245 Portreath Road is a staging ground that blends hospitality with adventure, appealing especially to riders who travel from Melbourne seeking a refreshing day trip or a deeper connection to the landscape beyond the coast.
What sets Spring Creek apart is their commitment to safe yet spirited riding—trotting is included, but cantering is reserved for verified experienced riders on designated days. The ride navigates lesser-known sections of the Otways rather than just tourist trails, showcasing a striking blend of native flora including towering manna gums and ground-hugging mosses. Birdcalls and the occasional sighting of wallabies or echidnas punctuate the ride.
This is a region steeped in both natural and cultural history; the Otways were traditionally home to the Gadubanud people, and conservation efforts today focus on maintaining biodiversity and protecting endangered species. Spring Creek Horse Rides plays a vital role in sustainable tourism here by limiting group sizes and minimizing impact on the trails.
For riders seeking a memorable outdoor pursuit on horseback, this two-hour trail delivers a crisp, genuine taste of Victoria’s wild Surf Coast terrain, cherished by locals and visitors alike.
Route Schematic
Trail schematic
Key moments along the ride, from the meeting point to the forested sections where you’ll pick up speed.
Spring Creek property (Bellbrae)
Riders gather and mount at Spring Creek’s Bellbrae property—this is the departure point for the two-hour trail.
Forest tracks of the Great Otway National Park
The ride moves into the Great Otway National Park, where sheltered tracks reveal forested scenery away from the coast.
Open sections for trotting and rhythm
Along the route there are stretches intended for trotting, giving riders sustained time in motion during the two-hour outing.
Riders must meet operator restrictions (minimum age and weight limits) and follow the guide’s safety instructions; routes and conditions can be adjusted by the operator for safety or weather.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Great Otway National Park interiors
This ride moves off the sand-and-surf reputation of the Surf Coast and into the forested reaches of the Great Otway National Park, revealing terrain and quiet pockets of nature not seen from the highway or beach.
A long trail with plenty of trot
At two hours in length, the trail is designed to be a sustained ride with multiple opportunities to increase pace where conditions allow—an appealing choice for riders who want more time in the saddle than shorter options provide.
Convenient start near the Great Ocean Road
Rides begin at Spring Creek’s Bellbrae property, a location that makes the experience accessible to visitors en route between Geelong and the Great Ocean Road and a popular pick for those travelling from Melbourne.
What the day feels like
What the two-hour ride feels like
The Two Hour Horse Trail Ride is a sustained outing from Spring Creek’s Bellbrae base into the Great Otway National Park. Over roughly two hours you’ll move beyond coastal viewpoints into quieter forest tracks; the ride is long enough to include faster sections where guests can trot while still being appropriate for riders aged 12 and up.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this ride suits — and who should rethink it.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The ride lasts two hours and departs from Spring Creek Horse Rides’ property at 245 Portreath Road, Bellbrae, VIC 3228.
Wear long pants, long sleeves and close‑toed shoes. Bring a jacket for rain; the operator provides riding jackets if needed and a small selection of shoes for riders who arrive in unsuitable footwear (sizes not guaranteed).
Rides continue in normal wet weather; only extreme storm conditions prompt contact to reschedule your booking.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What is the minimum age to join this ride?
This ride is strictly for riders aged 12 and over.
Is there a weight limit?
Yes. The ride implements a maximum weight of 90kg and has limited capacity for riders over 80kg; the operator will contact you to discuss options if you are over the limit.
How long is the trail ride?
The Two Hour Horse Trail Ride is two hours in duration.
Where do I meet for the ride?
Meet at Spring Creek Horse Rides’ property: 245 Portreath Road, Bellbrae, VIC 3228.
What should I wear or bring?
Wear long pants, long sleeves and closed‑toe shoes. Bring a jacket in case of rain; riding jackets are available from the operator if needed.
Will the ride go ahead in rain?
Rides generally continue regardless of weather; only extreme storm conditions will trigger contact to reschedule.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-07T20:57:58.650Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.