This week, we sent local content creator @Sharkeenaa out to explore Heavenly Stables just outside of Gqeberha. Here’s her honest review of the experience – from wobbly steps to friendly horses and everything in between:
There’s something undeniably magical about horses – their gentle eyes, their powerful presence, the rhythmic sound of hooves crunching beneath you. So when we heard about a local horseback riding venue offering guided rides, we geared up (literally) for a little equestrian adventure.
Getting there required a bit of navigation – the venue is tucked away in a quieter part of town, and the GPS took some convincing. The area itself was clean and well-maintained, which set a positive tone. That said, the initial welcome could have been warmer as the reception felt a little strained. A friendlier greeting would have helped ease us into the experience more comfortably.
Thankfully, the venue itself made up for the rocky start. Spacious and family-friendly, it had a sense of calm that put us at ease. Seeing the horses was a highlight – they all looked healthy, well-groomed, and clearly cared for. It was especially heartening to see that the staff seemed confident and capable when handling the animals.
One memorable moment highlighted both the resilience of the riders and an opportunity for improvement: an elderly gentleman attempted to mount his horse using a wooden step ladder that, unfortunately, wasn’t very stable. He lost his balance and took a minor tumble, needing a few minutes to recover. Though it was tough to watch, he got back on his feet and continued with the ride. The incident served as a clear reminder of the importance of proper safety equipment, particularly for older participants. With a few thoughtful adjustments, the experience can be made safer for everyone.
Aside from that, the rest of the experience was smooth. We wore disposable hairnets before putting on helmets (a thoughtful hygiene measure), and the handwashing station was a nice touch. The horse ride itself was decent, not too long, and perfect for beginners. That said, for those with a bit more riding experience under their belt (like me), the route through the bushes felt a bit dull. A ride to the beach would’ve offered a more scenic and memorable adventure.
Also worth noting – there was no visible food or refreshment area, just a sign-in desk. So if you’re planning a visit, pack snacks and drinks, especially if you’re bringing kids along.
What stood out most? Watching a few people taking horse riding lessons as we arrived. It’s encouraging to see locals embracing equestrian sports, and the friendly nature of the horses definitely added to the charm.
Sharkeenaa’s final verdict:
“This spot is great for first-timers and kids. It’s something different to do in GQ – and let’s face it, options are limited. I wouldn’t do the same bush route again, but I’d be keen if they offered a beach ride. The highlight for me was seeing how well the horses were treated and how friendly they were.”
So if you’re looking for a gentle introduction to horseback riding or want something new for the kids to try, this venue might just be worth the trip – GPS and all.
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