People that spend time with horses know that they’re awesome, intelligent animals. They’re also great company – sometimes better than humans. And you can enjoy their friendly presence during a trail ride in the hills at Kirby Park, Hahndorf.

Kirby Park’s been running for 25 years offering riding lessons. The school is led by Megan Jones. She’s had a successful career as an event rider and won a silver medal at the Beijing Olympics. So you know you’re getting quality and experienced teaching.

For the last 9 years they’ve also added trail rides to their list of activities, and I was happy to go on a slow ride through the countryside. I was paired with Scooter, a gorgeous, chestnut-brown gelding. After instructions on how to start, steer and stop, we rode along a track past ducks swimming in a dam, through paddocks, and under huge, shady eucalypts. It was a chance to take in the scenery and bond with these gentle giants. Scooter was an excellent partner on our journey. I liked his calm and easy-going nature.

Scooter loves a carrot, so you might want to bring one along to score a few points with him. It’s very satisfying to watch them munch down a carrot with gusto.

Michelle Whillis leads the trail rides and also teaches lessons at the centre. She’s been riding horses for 15 years. Starting at age 10, she had her first lesson and was hooked. After that, she begged her parents for a pony so persistently that they eventually gave in.

Michelle sums up her passion for horses saying, ‘they’re amazing. Also, they just love you no matter who you are.’

Maybe that’s why it feels so good to be around them. So head up to Hahndorf and experience some horse love at Kirby Park with their trail rides, lessons and activities.

For more information go to http://kirbypark.com

By Carolyn J Wild