Reviews ~ Byron Bay
Reviews ~ Byron Bay
For more reviews head over to our The Ranch on Clarence Hipcamp Reviews - The Ranch on Clarence Google Reviews - Facebook Reviews & The Ranch Byron Bay Google Reviews
Jen B.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2025
Great for camping with dogs.
Tent · With kids ·
Swan Lake
We stayed at The Ranch as we wanted to go horse riding. I couldn’t work out how to book the horse riding on Hipcamp so contacted Shanti directly messaging through the app & then a call. Shanti was very responsive. She was also very accommodating of our dog, & has a beautiful well cared for herd of horses. Great swimming hole at the end of the ride.
Rachel E.
2 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2025
Camping with Horses!!
5 m Class B · With kids ·
Horse Lovers
We loved our experience at The Ranch on Clarence! We had a beautiful camping spot, complete with Phantom the stallion, and felt very welcomed by Shanti! We did the Troopie Safari which was very cool and lots of fun, watching a herd of horses gallop past us was unbelievable! Horse riding was fantastic and we even got to help with putting out the feed, which my son loved! Thank You so much for an awesome experience on your beautiful property. We will be back for longer next time!!
Danielle G.
2 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2025
Swim with your horse in the river!
Tent ·
Horse Lovers
We camped at the Swan lake site at The Ranch on Clarence 👌🏽 the outdoor baths are amazing! Easy access to the River, Shanti & Jingles provided a canoe 🛶 so we paddled up to sandy riverside beaches, swimming & relaxing in nature without a soul to be seen! Riding over the creek crossing the next day was amazing, we took the horses in for a swim, this was a highlight! It was the perfect little getaway & a unique experience in a very beautiful part of Northern NSW Highly recommend a few days here!
Paul S.
2 reviews
Recommends
· January 2025
Tent ·
Horse Lovers
Our stay at the ranch was amazing, the view of the Clarence serene and our host was super fun, friendly and accommodating! Bundled with a fantastic horse ride we had an excellent time! 100% recommend and will return again!
Alan J.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2025
Overnight stay
10 m travel trailer ·
Dances with Dingoes
Great spot, very secluded. Shanti was so easy to deal with.
Mark J.
5 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2025
6 m pop-up camper · With pets ·
Dances with Dingoes
Shanti was a great host, very helpful. Camped at dances with dingos, great spot on the ridge. Would stay again
Alana H.
6 reviews
Recommends
· January 2025
Honeymoon Hill
Tent ·
Paradise Point
We loved our stay at Shanti’s property, the view from our site was amazing. It was such a relaxing outlook while enjoying our morning coffee and afternoon game of scrabble before a few beers around the fire. Shanti is an awesome host and so accomodating, ready to help with anything if needed. We also enjoyed the troopy horse safari, watching her herd of horses running free was like a scene out of a movie. Highly recommend this hipcamp and we will definitely be back (already trying to sort the family to bring them along next time) Thank you so much Shanti for sharing your piece of paradise
Daniel A.
5 reviews
Recommends
· January 2025
Epic camp
5 m car ·
Swan Lake
Gorgeous grounds on banks of Clarence river. Shanti approachable before and during the stay. Gorgeous horses and flat grounds. Everything as described and expected, will stay again.
Simon P.
2 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2024
Spectacular views
Tent · Group trip ·
Banner's Hill
Shanti was a great host and there are spectacular camping spots. Will be back
Rose H.
3 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2024
Tent ·
Banner's Hill
Shanti’s ranch was the highlight of our trip! We were so happy to be there with her, her dogs and gorgeous horses. We had such a special morning seeing her 20-30 horse run wild on the property. We will be back asap. Thank you Shanti. X
John C.
4 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2024
10 m travel trailer ·
Swan Lake
I loved our time at the Ranch. Amazing location and the hosts are brilliant. I will definitely be back. Thanks so much Shanti for an amazing time.
Simon F.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2024
Will be the first of many stays!
Tent · With pets ·
Banner's Hill
Shanti was an amazing host, she couldn’t have been more helpful. Our camp site was just perfect. My partner and I both went for trail rides on two of her amazing horses, my partner even got to go for a swim in the river on her ride which absolutely made her stay!
Tristan E.
2 reviews
Recommends
· November 2024
Tent ·
Swan Lake
Beautiful stretch of river. Hosts are awesome and I’ll be back!! Thanks heaps
Ross L.
4 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2024
Great - recommend
Tent ·
Paradise Point
We loved Shantis property. The campsite we chose was swan lake and it was serene and beautiful. Bathtubs were a delight. Great hosts. Highly recommend!
Amy B.
4 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2024
4 m travel trailer · With kids ·
Swan Lake
We camped with 4 kids at swan lake for 3 nights. We absolutely loved it, I think particularly having the horses graze around you! They are so friendly. The fire baths are awesome and the river access is steep but the water clear and fresh. There is a fun tree swing. Shanti is a gorgeous human who loves her horses like her babies and was a such a gentle teacher to our kids on the trail ride. Can’t wait to stay again ❤️
Martin E.
2 reviews
Recommends
· October 2024
9 m travel trailer · With pets ·
Horse Lovers
It is a great place to stay, the views across the river are amazing. Shanti was very accommodating and found a spot for us to camp with our horses. Highly recommended.
Bill H.
6 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2024
Great 2 days
6 m travel trailer ·
Swan Lake
My wife and I had two fantastic days at The Ranch on Clarence, Shanti was an excellent host, we spent one afternoon in the hot baths watching over the Clarence while the sun was setting it was just magnificent . Highly recommend
Elushia P.
6 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2024
Tent ·
One Hour River Ride
My experience at the Ranch was magical! Shanti is a horse whisperer and I felt completely safe on her horses. I felt looked after and she is a very warm caring person! Thank you so much for this memorable experience!
Clara R.
6 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2024
Tent ·
One Hour River Ride
We had an amazing experience at Shantis, she is a friendly host, the horses are so beautiful and gentle, the views are spectacular, the river is perfect for cooling off after a fabulous ride and the camp sites are spread out and easy to get to on good tracks. Perfect get away 👌 🐎 🤠 🏕️
Racheal K.
3 reviews
Recommends
· July 2024
Tent ·
Swan Lake
Peaceful, scenic, perfect place to switch off. Site was private and we were lucky enough to have the whole property to ourselves for the weekend. Helpful hosts and a pleasure to deal with. Thank you for letting us stay on your property Shanti. The fire baths were a lovely place to relax.
Mel P.
2 reviews
Recommends
· June 2024
Camping on the Clarence
Tent · With kids ·
One Hour River Ride
Our family of 5 + 2 cavoodles absolutely loved our stay at Swan Lake. Shanti was wonderful, so friendly and accommodating! The property was just stunning. We loved our nightly sunset fire baths overlooking the river and hills and sitting by the fire of an evening. The campsite was well set up for our family. The kids loved exploring the river on their kayaks and doing some fishing from the banks. We also did the river horse ride with Shanti and it was the highlight for all. We loved exploring this beautiful property on horseback. Thank you Shanti, we all can’t wait to visit again 💕
Elise H.
8 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2024
Tent ·
Two Hour River Ride
Shanti’s land is stunning and the horse riding was beautiful, was a special experience to see the Clarence on horseback
Elyce N.
2 reviews
Recommends
· May 2024
Camp on the Clarence river
Tent ·
Rewilding Retreat 7th - 9th of Feb
Such an incredible place to stay! Shanti’s land is stunning with a variety of spots to pitch my tent. All with breathtaking view over the Clarence river. Shanti is very welcoming and accommodating. I am in love with all her animals, especially the horses! I will definitely stay again and look forward to many more horse rides with her and her special horses ❤️
Angela J.
10 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2024
Tent ·
Rewilding Retreat 7th - 9th of Feb
The camp site on Shanti’s land is spectacular , The gentle sounds of the flowing river and morning birdsong were incredible .A fire-bath watching the sun setting over the river was definitely a highlight , this unique camp site is a hidden treasure , nestled on the riverbank with stunning views and campsite fire .The horse riding trails are plentiful and varied for all levels of riding as are Shanti's amazing horses.
Harriet M.
9 reviews
Recommends
· May 2024
5 m car ·
Rewilding Retreat 7th - 9th of Feb
The most amazing camp ever! Shanti is such a loving host that will always make sure you have the best time. The rustic vibe to the whole property is amazing. With bull skulls and antique western saddles as decor! All the horses are very well taken care of! As are all the other beautiful animals on this stunning land! Will most definitely be coming back to this special place!!
Renee M.
9 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2024
Women's Rewilding Horse Retreat
Tent ·
Rewilding Retreat 7th - 9th of Feb
I attended Shanti and Rire's Inaugural Women's Rewilding Horse Retreat in May 2024. The campsites are all in beautiful spots with amazing views. The fire baths overlooking the Clarence River were next level amazing 🤩 The horse rides we went on were so special. Three in total over two days. I really enjoyed learning more about natural horsemanship and how to sense into the horse's nature and how to centre my own energy before and during the ride in order to really nurture the relationship 🙏🏽 What a fantastic weekend with women of all ages and stages of life, with a common purpose and intention of being with women, horses and nature and Rewilding and Re-membering our True Nature. Thank you Shanti for hosting, Thank you Rire for co-facilitating and massive thank you to your amazing support crew. I travelled from New Zealand and I most certainly will be back. Arohanui, Renée
Paul F.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2024
Tent ·
Paradise Point
At our request Shanti was able to move us to the Swan Lake, Fire Baths Site. Great access to the Clarence River. Used one of the free Canoes for a great paddle. So peaceful, idyllic location and views, especially from the Fire Baths and toilet. We paid the extra for the horse riding. Shanti was so knowledgeable and hands on. She soon made us novice riders feel comfortable and relaxed. The ride was so scenic. The property has some great spots that fully suit the Hipcamp off grid experience. Thanks Shanti and Family.
Isla M.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2024
Tent ·
Banner's Hill
Site was beautiful and host was very friendly. Loved having the horses in the paddock and had a wonderful Easter long weekend !
Andrew M.
11 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2024
5 m travel trailer · With kids ·
Dances with Dingoes
Great outlook, quiet camping area and welcoming host
Maegen T.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2024
5 m travel trailer · With kids ·
Swan Lake
Beautiful camping spot in a perfect location. The bath tubs were amazing overlooking the river. Shanti was very accomodating and helpful. The kids had so much fun. We loved our stay.
Reviews ~ Byron Bay
Reviews ~ Byron Bay
AI Overview:
Reviews for "The Ranch Byron Bay" are overwhelmingly positive, with people praising the exceptional horse riding experience, beautiful scenery, well-trained horses, and friendly staff, particularly highlighting the ability to cater to riders of all levels, making it a great option for both beginners and experienced riders; many mention the highlight of their Byron Bay trip being a beach ride with The Ranch.
Key points from reviews:
Excellent horse riding:
Most reviewers consistently mention the high quality of the horses and the well-organized riding experience, with many stating they had a fantastic time on their beach ride.
Suitable for all levels:
The ranch is praised for accommodating riders of all skill levels, making it accessible to everyone.
Beautiful location:
People appreciate the scenic setting within the Byron Bay hinterland, with some describing the property as "magical".
Friendly staff:
Positive comments about the welcoming and knowledgeable staff, particularly regarding the riding instructors.
Where to find reviews:
The Ranch Byron Bay website:
Features testimonials from past guests highlighting their positive experience.
TripAdvisor:
You can find several reviews on TripAdvisor, with many mentioning the fantastic beach rides and overall experience.
Tillie Davidson Kennedy recommends The Ranch Byron Bay.
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It was so wonderful riding along the beach just perfect for people on there honeymoon just like us. Thanks to the guys at the Ranch they were amazing. I would recommend to anyone
5 starts
Krista Kelser recommends The Ranch Byron Bay.
rtodpsneSo19tm6a5eab26fh80goa tgO2r3t2hl2m3u2ch,h f06il0u2c5 ·
What an incredible experience. I have ridden lots but never on the beach and NEVER in my wildest dreams actually ridding into the surf.. mind blown.. a bucket list must. Safe for all, children as well as limited experience with horses.
Thank you Shanti we will tell all of our friends and most definitely be back as soon as possible. Krista xx
Amelia Snell recommends The Ranch Byron Bay.
rtodpsneSo19tm6a5ybr26fh80gae1ugF2 3t2hl2m3u2ch,h f06il0u4r5 ·
had the best time ever!! So much freedom yet always staying safe. Would recommend no matter your riding experience. Had a ball! Thanks so much
Amanda Rose recommends The Ranch Byron Bay.
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Shanti and her family are amazing! Not only does she know how to wrangle horses but girl can ride!
Thanks for a great experience - we will be back!
Gill Harris Jones recommends The Ranch Byron Bay.
otsdrpneoS0mc9i89rb54e2 hcuD2mh6i13l0,1ma153 i2f177e02gem2t0 ·
Amazing! Shanti is so experienced. Beach riding is great...but bare back in the ocean is next level We will always remember today's ride, thanks so much xxx
Alis On recommends The Ranch Byron Bay.
otsdrpneoS0mh9i89rb54e2 hcuO2oh6i13l0,9ma153 i2f177t02gcm2t0 ·
Amazing ride today with Shanti and her beautiful horses. I’ve ridden on the beach before both in other parts of the country and in the UK and this is by far the best beach riding I’ve done. And getting to swim in the sea with three very happy horses afterwards - just fantastic! Couldn’t recommend more.
Shelley Lucas recommends The Ranch Byron Bay.
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fantastic experience we will be back for sure, this is a must do in Brunswick.
Shanti is such a beautiful person and made our experience wonderful.
Thank you so much
Jo Fletcher recommends The Ranch Byron Bay.
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Awesome experience for all of us. .. Shanti is AWESOME!! Thank you.
Gordana Chok recommends The Ranch Byron Bay.
dorSptenso3m3g1uf0tu t,ci920h8tm30Mg287584 42cfmy11044a2f58t ·
I spent the most amazing day with shanti in the beautiful Byron Bay Forest. she took me through elusive trials on the most amazing pony I even got to see my first real live snake in the wild And got to swim in a fresh water pool the ranch service is absolutely next to none And the best way to experience the Byron Bay forest as I was only in Byron Bay for three days i called the night before and everything was pretty much organised in an hour !!!! was so very impressed with the service :))) and will be coming back to the ranch as soon as I’m back back Byron :))))
Steve Colman recommends The Ranch Byron Bay.
rodpstoneS05e137lliam73259 c299r9a1hag3,1l96538a5bi4m 1Dee00 ·
Highly recommend The Ranch Byron Bay. Ive rode with Shanti several times now and had a fantastic time every ride. The horses are so well behaved and really responsive and riding with Shanti you know your in great hands her horsemanship is amazing.
6 months ago
I always love coming out to spend time with shanti and her lovely horses! We never have bad times and always a lot of fun. I can’t think of a better place to go to escape the urban lifestyle for a moment and just enjoy nature on its own. Going for rides with shanti is like a little freedom you get where you can be yourself and just feel free. Anyone reading this should definitely go out and explore it. It’s one of the best places in the world! Thank you for always giving me a wonderful time on your property shanti! Can’t wait for more adventures with you! xx
PS: You could get shantified (not a bad thing) ;)
3 years ago
The beach ride was such an amazing experience, horses are sooo well behaved and in great condition. Can’t wait to come back :)
3 years ago
Had a fun time riding on the 4 hour wilderness trek. The scenery was beautiful. Great if you just want to jump on a horse and go for it!
Mel Wilson
4 years ago
We took our kids (all of us novices), and had a lovely ride with Shanti. Beautiful setting and enjoyed by all. Definitely worth the experience
4 years ago
Had an amazing time on the beach ride for my partners birthday, Shanti really made it a day to remember. Really appreciate how she caters to all people of different experiences, highly recommend.
4 years ago
An absolute amazing experience!
The best trained horses i have experienced and the most amazing trainer.
Thank you for a wonderful experience both me and my husband loved it.
5 years ago
Simply OUTSTANDING experience!
My daughter took me for a morning beach ride for my 45th birthday. It'd been at least 15 years since I'd ridden, even back then I didn't go past a trot.
After I caught my breath, with the unrivalled scenery it wasn't long before my beautiful horse (for the morning) Aletta had me trotting along the waters edge on Brunswick beach.
The owner paired each rider with a horse suited to their experience. 1 of which was even a thoroughbred.
I will definitely be back. Superbly organised, informative & downright fun
5 years ago
Thank you for giving me an invigorating experience riding Diva (purebred Friesian Mare), I loved every moment. Your horses are clearly very loved.
5 years ago
Had the best time on our beach ride & swim with The Ranch! It was the highlight of our trip to byron bay! They catered to all of our experience levels, from beginner to more experienced all within the same group. The owner made us all feel at ease with her calm yet informative instructions and never made anything feel rushed or like we were on a timed tour. She was very attuned to her horses. They were stunning horses, both to look at but also well trained and calm. The Ranch went above and beyond for us to make sure we all had a good time and we are so happy we chose their company for our ride. Will be recommending them to everyone we know! 🐎💕
5 years ago
Everything about our ride was amazing. The horses looked well cared for, and Shanti was very friendly (and gave us a good tip for coffee after). The ride was a great workout, me and my friend are both more experienced riders and we got what we came for. We cantered a long way along the beach. We got Shanti-fied ;-) In addition to the great ride, Shanti made some footage of us riding and shared it with us after. A good memory to look back on!
5 years ago
Shanti was so accomodating to my partner and I as we are both very different riders! I will come back and bring my family because the horses here are so well looked after. What a wonderful day!
Local Guide·119 reviews·58 photos
5 years ago
Had an awesome ride in the forest very helpful and understanding even though one of us only rode round the carpark.
Will be back before long I'm sure thanks!
5 years ago
My wife and I just got home from a beautiful day out with Shanti and her amazing horses. Was a perfect way to spend our 20th wedding anniversary. I would thoroughly recommended spending the extra and having the full day ride through the rain forest. Magical! The picnic by the waterfall was so special. A day to remember. Thank you for making it a memorable day Shanti and Swanny.
5 years ago
I took my husband and daughter riding on the Beach Ride with The Ranch Byron Bay due to the good reviews I read. Shanti did not disappoint. She emailed me straight back and was warm, caring and efficient. Her horses are lovely and well cared for. We are experienced riders and got to trot and canter up the beach. We will definitely return . 5 stars
6 years ago
Best Horse Ride I’ve Ever Had At Brunswickheads Beach,We Saw Lots Of Whales & Shanti Is A Great Group Leader Caint Wait To Do This Again .... The Ranch Byron Bay Tic Tic Boom 🤠🐴🐳🤘
6 years ago
Amazing!! Such an incredible experience. Loved it and will definitely be back. The beach ride was just amazing, the horses are beautiful and so much more than your average trail ride. So much more freedom to experience the horses. Thank you!!
6 years ago
Well organised, beautiful scenery, lovely horses and friendly staff! Would highly recommend!!
6 years ago
I gave my daughter a beach ride as her 14th birthday present and she absolutely loved it. She is a rider but thought this was the most fun riding she had ever done. Highly recommend it!
6 years ago
Had the most amazing day with my 14 year old son and 9 year old son. They had never ridden before but these guys made us all feel so comfortable and the kids had the best day. Over and above expectations. Thank you so much.
6 years ago
I can’t thank you enough for allowing me to ride your beautiful unicorn Naorlia into my wedding ceremony at the Figtree Restaurant in Ewingsdale. I only gave you a weeks notice because my original booking with someone else fell through but you were so beautiful to deal with and made me feel so at ease with everything after such a stressful mishap... It was such a memorable wedding for so many reasons but my dream of riding a horse into the ceremony came true, honouring my late mother and feeling like a magical goddess which is exactly what I wished for! Thanks for being so professional and providing such amazing horses for a wedding that will never be forgotten!
Local Guide·21 reviews·8 photos
6 years ago
Incredibly spiritual horse riding experience. Loved it madly. Will be back over and over again.
6 years ago
Best few days away, The property has to be seen to be believed! Converted stable style accommodation, open communal space with fire place. Surrounded by the magical mountains of the Caldera. Horse trails through a spectacular part of Northern new south wales. (all riding levels welcome). I experienced a wonderful connection to the horses and the land, grounding and energising experience. Gourmet cooking and picnics to meet us along the way. A memorable weekend, Something different, I can highly recommend this for you and your friends!
6 years ago
Best place for horseriding in Australia! Shanti is passionate about her horses and treats them like family, with so much love. Thank you so much!
6 years ago
Fantastic ride out with Shanti and the crew last weekend! The ride was well organised and everybody enjoyed themselves immensely. The Ranch's horses are gorgeous and very responsive whilst still being safe. Can't recommend enough!
Local Guide·135 reviews·67 photos
6 years ago
What an amazing experience! I haven't ridden in a long time but the staff were really helpful. Such gentle and beautiful horses! The ride through the forest was truly enchanting!
6 years ago
Beautiful horses, amazing scenery through the native Australian forest. Really close proximity to Byron town centre.
7 years ago
Had a great ride today at the ranch Byron bay 🎉
7 years ago
After doing many of the different activities available in Byron (kayaks, lighthouse, surf school) I was looking for something that would take me away from the ocean and really get amongst the lush green paradise of the hinterland. I heard from a friend that the best way to see the natural beauty of Byron would be to trek through the national park where it is packed full of wonderful tropical wildlife and waterfalls - and what better way to see all this than from horseback! The Ranch Byron Bay actually turned out to be one of the best experiences during my visit to Byron. The horses are a pleasure to ride and so well looked after. The tour guide/host was so knowledgeable of the local area (has lived there for many years) and took us on the most amazing trek through the hinterland. We stopped at a natural creek half way and swam with the horses (a refreshing cool down for both of us) and chilled out with lovely picnic in the heart of tropical paradise. The horses looked as though they were enjoying it as much as us!! The ride back to the Ranch down the mountain side with the sunsetting over Byronshire was really magical and unforgettable. I want to visit Byron again soon and this will be something at the top of my to do list! Maybe a beach trek next time? Thanks to The Ranch and the lovely team! See you soon :)
7 years ago
I went riding with Shanti yesterday for a surprise birthday present and it was a brilliant experience, I was on a lovely horse named Allinta a beautiful Australian Draft Horse and what a darling she was. As I can ride, we were allowed to canter many times along the beach and it was an awesome feeling as this is only the second time riding along the beach as I mostly ride in the bush, what an experience - I will definitely be doing this again. Thank You Shanti & Thank You Allinta...
7 years ago
Best Horse trekking service in the Byron shire! Such beautiful well natured horses and expirenced owners! Would highly recommend!