Possum Brush: Nature and Horse Riding

Possum Brush is on the Barrington Coast in New South Wales, just off the Pacific Highway between Taree and Forster-Tuncurry. If you’d like to include nature or horse riding in your travel plans, there are specific places to explore: Clarendon Forest Retreat in Talawahl Nature Reserve, and the horse riding providers Sowter Equestrian and Blue Metal Equestrian in Possum Brush.

Forest, Wildlife and Trails

The 100-acre property of Clarendon Forest Retreat is in Talawahl Nature Reserve; the retreat is surrounded by 16,600 hectares of state forest and conservation reserve. Various wallaby species and reptiles can be found on the property; a sugar glider has occasionally been spotted there. Such a sighting is not guaranteed.

Fire trails near the retreat lead to Breakneck Lookout, which offers views of the coast and surrounding hills. Gracies Loop runs directly in front of the retreat entrance; this challenging circular trail takes an hour and passes through sections of preserved rainforest. The two options offer different experiences: the fire trails lead to the lookout, while Gracies Loop is a one-hour circuit through the rainforest. Check trail conditions and access before setting out.

Recreational activities in Talawahl Nature Reserve include four-wheel-drive and trail bike tours, walking, cycling and horse riding. Talawahl State Conservation Area contains significant Aboriginal sites.

Horse Riding in Possum Brush

Sowter Equestrian in Possum Brush offers horse riding trails and lessons. The provider is a five-minute drive from Clarendon Forest Retreat and also offers trail rides through Talawahl Nature Reserve for all experience levels. This gives horse riding enthusiasts different options: trails and lessons in town, as well as rides in the reserve. Booking and operating conditions for the rides may change; check them before making plans.

Blue Metal Equestrian in Possum Brush offers coaching, clinics and Protocol Days. If you’d like to include one of these formats in your plans, check specific dates in advance.

Guest Facilities at Clarendon Forest Retreat

Guests at Clarendon Forest Retreat have exclusive use of a 12-metre saltwater pool. The retreat also provides guests with a tennis court, rackets and balls, basketball, soccer goals and a ball, and a badminton set, all free of charge. If the pool or sports equipment is important to your choice, check the retreat’s current facility availability before your trip.

For planning purposes, it’s important to note the distinction: the pool and sports equipment are guest facilities at the retreat, while the horse riding options are provided by businesses in Possum Brush.

Discover more destinations: Paxton, Monkerai, Corindi Beach, Culcairn, Belbora, Colyton, Scotts Head, Kulnura

For the broader travel overview: New South Wales.