Susan River Homestead Adventure Resort
Great for families!
Relaxing views of the Australian bush and open green grass paddocks. The sounds of the wind rustling over the cane fields we pass and the knowledge that I’ll soon be eating chocolate mud cake by the banks of the Susan River. All of this from the back of an impeccably behaved horse.
Does this sound awesome to you? That’s because it is!
My five year old thought it was awesome as well. In fact, his verdict was that it was, “AMAZING!”. Especially the chocolate mud cake part. Also because he got to ride a beautiful spotty horse named Magnum.
I loved it because his horse was tethered to Abby’s trusty steed, the extremely competent horse woman here at Susan River Homestead.
This took away any anxiety I had about runaway horses and wild little boys who had previously declared they will most definitely be doing “horse jumping” on their very first trek.
In fact, Magnum was so calm and well behaved that the gently plodding of hooves over grass and the warm sun on Ripley’s back put him to sleep. Abby, who is used to this happening, deftly lifted him over to her own horse and he got to ride shot gun sleepily and safely.
Like most small boys, his sweets radar ensured he was wide awake when we got to the chocolate mud cake part.
What Can I do at Susan River Homestead With the Kids?
The daily horse riding trek at Susan River is awesome!
However, Susan River Homestead Adventure Resort is more than just horse riding. It’s 1660 acres of open paddocks, lakes, dams and the Australian bush. There are plenty of outdoor activities for the whole family.
The lake is a whopping 17 acres and can be used for basically any activity that involves being towed behind a boat. If you would like a less adventurous experience, a gentle kayak around the lake is just as enjoyable.
Did I mention they have a pool, tennis court and Olympic sized ground level trampoline?
What to Expect at Susan River Homestead
There are 16 comfortable hotel rooms (click here to book through booking.com or contact Susan River Homestead direct) and plenty of space for RVs, motor homes or even just to pitch a tent.
One of the most enjoyable things about Susan River is how welcome you will feel. The McLean family have owned and operated the adventure resort since the late 70’s.
It’s perfect for those with a little piece of country in their heart, or even those who long for some fresh air and wish to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Its especially great for people who appreciate a hearty home style meal. You won’t find undersized portions on overpriced plates here. Don’t be surprised if apple pie and custard is served for desert … exactly how your mum used to make it!
The homestead dining room has a brick fireplace and a bar. There is an old piano in the corner for atmosphere and the venue lends itself perfectly for functions such as weddings and parties.
There is even a genuine antique horse drawn wedding cart suspended from the ceiling in the alfresco dining area.
My tip!
Time your visit for a full moon. If the conditions are right, a night time horse trek with a half time bonfire, garlic bread and hot soup is on the cards. Bookings are essential due to minimum number requirements.
How to get in Contact With Susan River Homestead
Phone: (07) 4121 6846
Email: info@susanriver.com
Web: www.susanriver.com
How to get to Susan River Homestead
Susan River Homestead is located just off the highway halfway between Maryborough and Hervey Bay in Queensland.
Thinking of Flying?
Daily direct flights run from Brisbane and Sydney to Fraser Coast/Hervey Bay Airport. On arrival, guests will be met by Susan River’s courtesy vehicle (subject to prior arrangement)
Try comparing airlines on Sky Scanner or check out I Want That Flight.
Driving Here?
Susan River Homestead is approximately three hours drive north of Brisbane. Take the Fraser Coast Highway (Hervey Bay Road) from Maryborough and look for the Susan River signs approximately from Maryborough.
Compare rental car prices across major brands here.
Visiting With Kids
Susan River Homestead is an ideal destination for kids, whether it’s to stay overnight or just for a day visit. There is lots of space to run around and plenty of outdoor activities on offer with the most popular being the horse rides.
There is water skiing, parasailing and tube riding on the lake and bush walking, tennis courts, volleyball, billiards and a movie room for when you don’t want to get wet.
All kids (even big ones) will love the swimming pool and Olympic sized ground level trampoline.
Resources for Booking Your Family Holiday to Hervey Bay
Flights
Hervey Bay is located 3.5 hours drive North of Brisbane. Get a great deal on flights by comparing major airlines on I Want That Flight. Deals on car hire can be found at Discover Cars.
Accommodation
CAMPING – There is a Discovery Park on Fraser Street as well as a council-owned beachfront tourist park. For those seeking a little more privacy, the author (yours truly) offers private land camping through HipCamp at our property, Hervey Bay Bush Escape.
MIDRANGE – Try the Woolshed Eco Lodge for larger families, Silver Sands Apartments or Break Free Great Sandy Straits.
UPMARKET – Try the Grand Mecure Allegra, Akama Resort or Oaks Hervey Bay Resort and Spa.
Booking.comActivities
When you get tired of lazing around on the beach, you can’t beat a visit to Fraser Island or a Whale Watching trip.
- Check out the great tour options on Viator here.
Looking for More Awesome Family Holiday Inspiration?
For more information on visiting the wonderful Hervey Bay, head on over to our Hervey Bay page. Alternatively, head back to the home page for inspiration on other destinations in Australia and worldwide.
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Awesome thank you Jess.
Thank you for visiting with us for the day and sharing the Homestead with your internet friends. Beautiful photos.
Hi Angie. Thanks for having us. We had a really great time and will definitely be back!