January 14, 2016

This post was made possible thanks to 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment

From watching the sun go down from Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, to strolling hand in hand by the ocean as you trail the Bondi to Bronte walk, all the way to putting your names down for a reservation at Quay and patiently waiting 12 months, there’s no shortage of uniquely Sydney things to do with your lover.

Last week we upped the ante on inner-city couple ideas, thanks to 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment, because let’s be honest, nobody does romance like the movies.

In celebration of the release of The Longest Ride on digital (watch it here) we channeled our inner Nicholas Sparks characters (or as close as we could get) and saddled up for Centennial Park’s ‘Ride To Lunch’ with Sydney Horse. We can confirm it’s every bit as romantic as a movie and, dare we say, more thrilling than waiting for a reservation at the city’s most popular restaurant.

WHAT TO EXPECT

The Ride To Lunch experience includes a half hour introductory lesson on a mechanical horse (we live in the future!). Our guide Fiona explained that these animals are wholly instinctual and if they sense they can take you for a ride (so to speak) they will.

Here’s where you need to conjure up your most assertive self, take hold of the leads (“they’re called reins Meghan”) like you mean it and travel with purpose. If not, you’ll probably end up like us, with your trusty steed’s face deep in a patch of grass, questioning your inner power.

Once you get going it’s a wholly picturesque experience there’s a whole new view of Centennial Park’s arbours and ponds to be found from a few metres up high.

The stroll lasts about 40 minutes, finishing Centennial Parklands Dining, where you jump off and leave your filly outside like some kind of wild west rockstar, while your cowboy valet guide takes them back to the stables for you.

Choose from breakfast/brunch or a full 3-course indulgence, including a glass of wine and a platter of select deli meats and truffle dip.