

Willow's Leap Equestrian and Willow's Retreat Accommodation is a horse riding school, camping ground, and self-catering accommodation located in Fernances Crossing, in the beautiful Wollombi Valley at the south end of the NSW Hunter Valley. This facility offers a range of services including lessons, horse education, accommodation, camping, and bespoke clinics.
The horse riding school at Willow's Leap is dedicated to teaching riders and their horses how to jump. Safety and fun are prioritised, while also challenging riders with a wide variety of fences. The jumps range from 'Complete Beginner' at around 40 cm to 'Wow, that's getting high! ' At 1.
05m. Photos of some jumps can be found in the 'Photos' section for visitors to get a glimpse of the course.
For those concerned about horse bolting during cross country training, Willow's Leap has several fully fenced paddocks available for training sessions. This ensures a safe environment for both riders and horses.
Willow's Retreat Accommodation provides a comfortable and convenient place to stay for those who want to make a weekend out of their visit. The self-catering accommodation is nestled in the picturesque surroundings of the Wollombi Valley, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of horse riding.
In addition to regular lessons and accommodation, Willow's Leap also hosts bespoke clinics with their own instructor, Lyndel Taylor, as well as special guest instructors like Belinda Bailey and Emma Mason. This provides riders with the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and expand their skills.
The team at Willow's Leap, including Phil, Lyndel, and Ani, are known for their friendliness and accommodating nature. Visitors often mention their positive experiences at the facility and highlight the warmth they received during their stay. The facility also has friendly dogs that add to the welcoming atmosphere.
Safety is a top priority at Willow's Leap. The facility is fully insured and has qualified medical cover available on-site, giving visitors peace of mind.
Both Lyndel and Phil, the founders of Willow's Leap, bring a wealth of experience and expertise. Lyndel is an EFA Level I Instructor with over 35 years of riding experience. She specialises in eventing and is especially dedicated to working with adult beginners and riders making a return to the sport after some time off. Phil, on the other hand, manages the construction and safety of the cross country jumps on-site.
He has trained under some of Australia's top jump builders and is also skilled in horse photography.
Overall, Willow's Leap Equestrian and Willow's Retreat Accommodation is a facility that offers high-quality horse riding lessons, comfortable accommodation, and a beautiful natural setting. Whether individuals or small groups, riders of all levels will find a welcoming and safe environment to improve their skills and enjoy their time with horses.