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Come and ride with us in these beautiful places
EUROPE
Austria
Avance Reiter's Resort: 4* Family hotel, outstanding kids' facilities/club. dressage and lessons on Lipizzaners. More details
Dienstl Estate: 4* rural hotel offering polo courses for beginners. Riding lessons for all ages. Kids pony camp. More details
Interalpen: 5* luxury in spectacular Alpine setting. Trail riding on haflingers for all. Spa, pools, sports, kids club. More details
Kroller: 4* Family hotel with Western-style riding into the mountains. Spa, pools and kids club. Lessons. More details
Muhldorf Castle: 4* medieval castle in rural setting, driving courses, dressage, golf, Spa. More details
Schlosswirt: Stylish cosy 3* log cabin style hotel in stunning Alpine national park. Glacier trail rides on haflingers. More details
Strasserwirt: Traditional 3* hotel offering excellent riding tuition (jump, dressage and beginners). Haflingers. More details
Supreme: 5* luxury. No children. Hacks and dressage on Lipizzaner stallions. Award-winning spa. Ride & yoga. More details
France
Chateau Curzay: Elegant 4* castle hotel offering riding lessons (jump and dressage) in beautiful rural setting. More details
Italy
Orthal Albergo: 2* family-run hotel offering gourmet riding holiday with cookery classes. Riding lessons for all. More details
Gaarten: 4 * hotel. Riding at the Orthal but enjoying the extra facilities of a 4 * hotel in the heart of authentic village. More details
Post hotel: 4* Alpine hotel in Tyrolean village offering lessons, driving and mountain trail riding. Ride & ski. More details
Tuscany trails: 4* experience Tuscany away from the crowds. Villa based day-rides or 6 day mobile trail rides. More details
Portugal
Quinta da Fe: high-level dressage in rural authentic setting on Lusitanos. Novices and learn to ride. Pool. More details
Campo Real: 5* luxury offering dressage and riding for all ages and abilities. Kids' club, pools, spa, golf, tennis. More details
Lusitano: 4 * boutique hotel in Golega. Dressage on Lusitanos to high level. Weekend getaway. More details
Slovenia
Pristava Chalets: 4* Rustic chalets in mountain national park. Hacks on lipizzaners for experienced riders. More details
Pule Estate: 4* quiet, stylish converted farm estate offering rides out on lipizzaners and driving. More details
Spain
Andalucian Trails: 4* beach hotel. Half-day rides and lessons on Andalucian horses, Ride & Surf. Winter sun. More details
AFRICAN CONTINENT
Egypt
Visit archaelogical sites/[pyramids on horseback. Bedouin camps or 5 * luxury. Join our annual Charity ride. More details
South Africa
Wait A Little: Big 5 Safari. Luxurious 'colonial' style camps. Exhilarating game-watching from horseback. More details
Whale watching and Coastal riding Beautiful beach riding, mobile rides for 3, 5 or 9 days into the flower kingdom. More details
Tanzania
Serengeti Safari. Big 5 on horseback, 5 day ride for experienced riders. Extremely Luxurious lodges. More details
SOUTH AMERICA
Argentina
Learn to play polo or brush up your game at one of these lovely traditional Estancias close to Buenos Aires:
Estancia La Sofia: More details
Estancia El Rocio: More details
Peru
Machu Picchu by horseback. 7 day mobile lodge to lodge ride. Spectacular scenery, adventure ride. More details
Adventures & Safaris
This is why you learnt to ride
Wait A Little Big 5 Safari: South Africa
Outstanding game viewing. Fast-paced exhilarating riding for fit, good riders only. South African private reserve near Kruger national park. 7 day mobile safari staying at 3 different luxury lodges. More details
Whale trail: South Africa
Mobile Coastal ride to see Southern Right whales from June to December each year and mobile rides through the flower kingdom year-round for all ages and abilities. Accommodation in stylish and authentic 'homesteads' and retreats. Intermediate to advanced riders. More details
Alpine Crossing: Austria
Join our unique 'Glacier Ride' and ride over the Alps with a professional mountain guide, reaching a 3000m peak and staying in rustic mountain huts along the way. Stunning Austrian national park. Intermediate to advanced riders of all ages. More details
Machu Picchu - Peru
Spectacular 7 day ride on superb horses to this ancient Inca capital in the heart of the Andean mountains. Do it in style and in comfort - you ride from lodge to lodge. Private guide of Machu Picchu. Confident and experienced riders only. More details
Serengeti Safari - Tanzania
5 day mobile game viewing from horseback in the most luxurious lodges you will find in Africa ! Spa and pool. More details
Tuscany: Italy
Mobile ride over a week to explore deep into rural Tuscany enjoying good food and wine along the way in small groups for intermediate to advanced riders. More details
Desert Bedouin Ride - Egypt
See the Pyramids of Giza on horseback, then head off on a desert adventure across the Sahara, sleeping in colourful Bedouin tents along the way. Annual Ride & Raise trip for Brooke Horse Charity. More details
Mountain Adventure at the Schlosswirt
High Alpine trekking on a Haflinger Austria
Western-style trail-riding on Haflinger Ponies into the high alpine landscape. Spectacular rides from the hotel each day (from a few hours to full day rides) or head off into the mountains for several days venturing deep into the heart of the High Tauern national park, sleeping in rustic mountain huts along the way.
Follow the ancient Gold route across the mountains, used by pack-horses for centuries. Alternatively, base at this elegant romantic hotel where you can enjoy a different panorama ride each day, riding to waterfalls and deep green mountain lakes and encountering some of the thousands of animals and plant species who inhabit the park. The Schlosswirt is an elegant romantic national park hotel where you can enjoy creature comforts and gourmet food close to nature.
Beautiful outdoor swimming pool, tennis, sauna and steamroom. The area is also excellent for hiking and mountain biking. Resident national park mountain guide.
The Ultimate Riding Adventure: Join one of our 3000m rides into the high Alpine region. 3 days riding with two overnights in a rustic mountain hut. Three further days with shorter panorama rides (2-3 hours) from the hotel into the national park. These pecial weeks run in June for riding through mountain flowers, in August for following the footsteps of the first ascent of Austria's highest mountain, the Grossglockner, and in September to catch the spectacular Autumn colours: 'On horseback to 3000m'.
Holidays at the Schlosswirt are all about fresh air and nature. This informal, family-run hotel is situated on the edge of a village in a pretty valley, by a river and surrounded by forest. Delicious regional cooking and excellent wine list. Cosy fire and friendly stylish bar.
Riding at the Post Hotel in the stunning Italian Dolomites
Alpine trail riding on Haflingers, driving, ride & spa
4* hotel with pool, excellent spa and fitness facilities.
Daily rides out for experienced riders in the beautiful Dolomite landscape of South Tyrol on sure-footed sporty Haflingers.
Half-day and full-day picnic rides up to the Alm plateaus. Tuition on elegant well-trained Warmbloods from own stud in the panorama sand school or in the light indoor riding hall for jumping, dressage to medium level and novice riders.
Beginner riding courses for all ages and abilities. Children and adults welcome. Picnic carriage rides. Hiking and biking paradise.
Ride & Ski in winter. International ski resort and riding in the snow. Ski joering and romantic sleigh rides (see separate section on Winter riding).
Carriage driving with former Italian champion, three times Italian champion Hannes Weitlaner on two-span carriages. Horse carriage rides around the village.
The fully modernized 4* Post has been standing in the heart of this charming village since 1886, tucked into the mountains of Northern Italy. Delicious creative food from the Mediterranean-Alpine region and a large spa and fitness area with glorious indoor pool.
Ride & Spa with a special program of massages and beauty treatments. Ride & Relax in the sauna and steam rooms or in the Hamam. Extensive range of spa and beauty treatments. Resident Physiotherapist. More details...
The Kroller - A Western Riding Ranch In The Austrian Alps
For families with kids who ride
Perched on a high pass in spectacular landscape, on the river bank of the Gerlos Bach, 4* family hotel. Daily trail rides into the mountain wilderness on Criollos, Quarter Horses and Paint Horses. Free kids' club.
Enjoy fresh mountain air, crystal clear water and nature at its purest. Half-day and full day trail rides rides. Lessons for kids and adults. Beginners' riding weeks. Overnights in mountain huts. Kids' paradise at The PonyHoo - all day kids' activity club (indoor and outdoor). Western saloon bar with live music. Indoor and outdoor swimming pools and 'Indian Spirits' spa. More details...
Tuscany Trails
Tuscany ride, Italy
Wander through vineyards, olive groves and cypress trees, gallop over golden undulating hills and along the shores of sparkling lakes. Stop for lunch in a medieval piazza; savour a simple but delicious Italian meal, all washed down with a glass of the local Chianti.
Adventure riding holiday in exclusive small groups on well trained horses (mainly Lipizzaner or Maremmano, a local Italian breed) in one of the Europe's most diverse landscapes - including lakes, rivers, mountains, rolling fields, vineyards, olive groves, small villages, churches, castles, forest and wildlife. Based in Rufina in the hills above Florence an area noted for being the wildest and most rugged of all the Chianti wine regions. Accommodation is at Colognole wine estate; a lovely hamlet of refurbished old stone farmhouses with a huge villa at its centre, still owned by the Countess Spaletti, and once the site of many big parties of the Florentine nobility. The estate is primarily a wine and olive oil producing farm, and guest will have the opportunity to taste the local fare. The rooms are ensuite and 4 star quality, delicious food and a lovely pool. Your hosts are Paolo and Jess, an Italian/ New Zealand couple who look forward to welcoming you and introducing you to their wonderful horses and the authentic Italian way of life.
Three different rides to choose from. The Chianti Rufino week which has daily rides from the Villa, the Pomino Wine Trail which has several days at the villa wine Estate then a mobile ride for 3 nights riding through vineyards and staying at wine estates along the route, and the Monasteries Trail which also starts at the Villa but then combines the best of Tuscany into three days of riding.
The Strasserwirt Hotel, Austrian Alps
Riding lessons, Alpine trail riding
Riding out in small groups, fast- or medium-paced, in spectacular Tyrolean Alpine landscape.
Traditional family run 3* hotel with friendly riding-focused atmosphere.
If your kids love animals, they wil love the Strasserwirt !
Dressage, jumping and basic carriage driving tuition with award winning instructors. Arab, warmbloods used for lessons and and haflingers used for trail rides.
Lessons for complete beginners and training for intermediate riders and those wishing to improve their jumping and dressage skills.
Large indoor sandschool and outdoor paddock. Horse and Carriage rides.
Delicious home cooked regional food. Ponies for small children. Biking and hiking in Summer. Ideal for families and for 'improve your riding' courses.
Close to Salzburg, so can be combined with a 'Sound of Music tour' in this historical walled city.
Polo holidays
Argentina: Polo courses for complete beginners through to coaching for experienced players. Play as much or as little as you wish. Stay in a small, family-run Estancia (Spanish-colonial style farmhouses) and experience the exhilarating game of polo in stylish surroundings in great company. Stay on a working cattle-ranch and gallop with the Gauchos across the Pampas. Combine a polo course with a few days in Buenos Aires, one of the most vibrant cities in the world, home to 'tango' and lots more... Open year-round: perfect during the European Winter but glorious throughout the year with clear blue skies and lots of welcoming open fires. Any polo enthusiast should time their trip to co-incide with the Argentine Open at the Palermo ground each November and December (high season) where the world's best players do battle for the most sought-after title in polo.
Polo courses:
La Sofia: First rate comfort in this Estancia run by a charming young German-Argentine couple.The polo club has two polofields always in perfect condition and they can guarantee play every day, throughout the year! Stick & Ball in the mornings after a hearty breakfast then polo games of 4 to 6 chukkers in the afternoons. Polo tours are offered where you have the opportunity to play in numerous other clubs in the area. Although beginners are taught (you will be thrown in at the deep end and will most likely play your first chukkas on your very first day!) there is a lot to offer the experienced polo player here. Owner, Marcos Antin, is a professional Argentine polo player and has worked in many polo schools around the world before setting up on his own.
More details
El Rocio: Luxurious colonial-style Estancia for some well-deserved pampering on the pampas! Beautiful stylish interiors, gourmet food but we expect nothing less from the charismatic French ex-pat owner Patrice and his glamourous wife Mararena ! Polo tuition for all standards, intensive courses or 'have a go' taster sessions combined with rides out. Gaucho culture is celebrated here on this small working farm. Beautiful swimmng pool in elegant garden right by the polo field. Moonlight gaucho spit-roast barbecues or on cooler nights in la matera, a traditionally-decorated stable room where the gauchos gather to share a mate drink with friends. More details
El Remanso: Drop into the world of the land barons of the pampas! Grand and elegant 5* Estancia with top-notch polo. In the heart of the polo-playing world, four high-goal polo grounds as well as one practice ground and over sixty polo ponies. Morning stick & ball sessions with guidance and advice from a professional then there is time for lunch served by the pool and an afternoon siesta before the afternoon chukkers around 4-5 which are followed by English tea served on the lawn. Players of all standards are catered for but there is a lot to do for the non-player as there is a gym, floodlit tennis court, golf just ten minutes away and a small town for shopping nearby. El Remanso Polo Academy has been set up following the success of their Longdole Polo Academy at Birdlip, Cirencester with the invaluable guidance of Rob Cudmore, Chrsitopher Hanbury and the Fernandez-Llorentes.
Experience the life of the cattle-herding Gauchos and stay on a working ranch, sampling authentic Criollo food, playing casual 'countryside polo':
La Rosita: remote Estancia where you can do it all - mobile rides where you can stay in four different Estancias (the 'Estancia to Estancia ride') , learn how to play polo, fish, go bird watching, hunting (ducks, partridges etc...) or try the Estancia and Gaucho lifestyle experience : five days to live the genuine Argentine countryside way of life. Also tango classes and river trips. Combine with a trip to see the famous Iguazu Waterfalls.
Los Potreros: exclusive 6,000-acre working cattle farm that has remained in the same Anglo-Argentine family for four generations. The Begg family now invites guests to share their home and lifestyle, providing a unique first hand taste of the rural traditions of Argentina for those who would like to combine the pleasures of estancia life with fabulous horse-riding. The estancia is secluded on the top of the "Sierras Chicas" at an altitude of 3,000 feet, nestled between the pampas and the Andes in the heart of the beautiful region of Còrdoba in the centre of Argentina. Whether your passion be outstanding horses, beautiful scenery, walking, photography, birdwatching, wild flowers, soaking up the local culture or simply enjoying good company in a truly unique setting, Estancia Los Potreros has something for everyone. Country polo is offered where you can practice every day and there is an informal game each week at the Estancia. Fixed dates for 'Polo Weeks' for more intensive training and playing.
Austria: The 400 year old Dienstl Estate is home to one of Austria's top riding centres, owned by Brigitte Kulterer, a passionate rider and formerly, a successful polo player. You can learn to play polo here from April to October but there is also an excellent riding school for beginners and to advanced-medium level for jumping and dressage. 1000km of riding trails for fast cross-country riding in and around the Estate in a mature rolling landscape of fields, forests and mature rivers. The Dienstl Estate is an elegant 4* country house hotel set in its own grounds. More details...
Egypt
See the Pyramids of Giza on horseback, then head off on a desert adventure across the Sahara, sleeping in colourful Bedouin tents along the way. Visit ancient monuments far from the crowds, resting and overnighting in the shade of an idyllic Oasis. Visit Bedouin villages and pass through an amazing changing landscape of shimmering open vistas, sand-dunes and stunning sculptural canyons.
We offer four different tours, all of them start in Cairo so that you may visit the Pyramids and the Sphinx on horseback and also visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities (where many of the treasures from ancient Egypt are on display) and experience some vibrant local colour at the night-time Bazaar for some interesting souvenirs. Your choice of 5 * luxury hotels or Desert camps.
Tour 1 - Desert Ride with Nile Cruise. 7 night tour combines the trip to Cairo, the ride around the pyramids and the Sphinx with a NILE CRUISE from Luxor where you can visit the tombs of the Valley of the Kings then sail to Edfu and Aswan for further visits to archaelogical sites. 5 * accommodation, 18 hours of riding.
Tour 2 - Desert Riding with beach time (diving/ snorkelling/spa). 7 night tour as above then transfer to Marsa Alam and the stunning beaches of the RED SEA for a few days of desert riding and relaxing in your 5* hotel. Includes a 'Jeep safari' to a Bedouin village, 13 hours of riding, 4 dives or snorkelling trips by boat.
Tour 3 - Horse, camel and Jeep Safari. 11 nights. Experience stunning desert landscape on the Sinai Peninsula. Visit archaelogical sites with overnights in Bedouin camps along the way, then relax at the end of the tour at a famous Red Sea resort. 35 hours of riding. 5* hotels and Bedoiun or modern tents.
Tour 4 - Bedouin Desert Safari. Ride 255 kilometers across the desert, about 46 hours over 7 days, sleep in traditional Bedouin tents and enjoy campside meals under the stars. Ride to an oasis and to Archaelogical wonders, like the necropolises of Saqqara, Abu Sir and Dahshur- the most stunning monuments of ancient Egypt - with an accompanying Egyptologist. Trip includes souvenir shopping in a traditional Bazaar in Cairo, the ride around the Pyramids and the Sphinx of Giza and a tour of one of the Brooke Charity projects in Cairo.
Join our Sponsored Ride (Departs 14th Nov 09) and raise funds for the Brooke Horse Welfare charity.
7 days, 46 hours of riding, 255km across the Sahara, £20,000 our combined target to raise.
Big 5 Safari on Horseback, South Africa
One of the few places in the world where you can see wildlife in its natural environment from the back of a horse. Luxury eco-lodge accommodation.
Gallop through the bush at dawn on super fit, highly trained horses, catch your breath by a river full of crocodiles and hippos with the odd elephant strolling by. Track lion and leopard prints through some of the most stunning scenery in the world, then suddenly come face to face with a magnificent male lion, licking his paws, sniffing the air to take in the group of horses just a few metres away. In the heat of the day, you return to the stylish eco-lodge for a few hours relaxing by the pool or in a hammock under a shady tree. Late afternoon, when the bush sings out again with the sounds of crickets, birdsong and baboons, you break into a canter alongside some lolloping giraffes or a herd of zebra and wildebeest on the run. Then there's time to find an open elevated spot to enjoy sundowners whilst you admire the fiery glow of an African sunset. After four days with day rides from the lodge, set off for a three day ride, deep into the bush, sleeping one night in colonial style tented camps and two nights in a designer luxury lodge. You will be in safe hands with your inspiring and charismatic guide, Philip; a superb rider, trainer, tracker and animal expert totally at home in the bush. Elephant, rhino, lion, leopard, buffalo, cheetah and many other animals and birdlife can be seen from horseback. This is an experience reserved for fit, confident riders with a spirit of adventure. It's a once in a lifetime holiday you will never, ever forget.
South African coast ride
Beaches, Whales and the Flower Kingdom
Grootbos and the Overberg Trails
Ride on one of the most beautiful beaches at the southern-most tip of the world. Stay at Grootbos, a private reserve which is in the heart of the Fynbos Kingdom of Flowers. This is a preserved Unesco site where 9000 plant species are found nowhere else on earth and which David Bellamy called ‘the best example of conservation of biodiversity I have ever seen’. Stay in a luxury lodge, have a great time and contribute to the outstanding eco conservation and local welfare projects like the Siyakula Township Project where children are taught how to grow vegetables to feed themselves.
There are resident biologists and conservationists who will accompany you on foot or on horseback, teaching you to appreciate the complexity of the unique Fynbos ecology. They will also organise boat trips to see some wonders of the marine world, the Big 5 of the deep; dolphins, penguins, seals, sharks and whales for which the area is famous.
The Grootbos Nature reserve has two luxury 5* lodges to choose from; the relaxed Garden Lodge for families and the more formal contemporary Forest Lodge for sophisticated grown-ups. Both lodges built out of natural materials, mostly by local craftsmen. There are 20 horses here on which to explore the reserve.
Then head off to explore outside the reserve on a riding trail for 4, 5 or more days. Ride through national parks and nature reserves, over mountain and private farms and along kilometres of beautiful unspoilt beaches. Along with this, comes a rich bird wild life and the Southern Right Whales, which visit this area to mate and calve from July to December each year.
The horses used are South African Crossbreeds (Arab and Boerperd) , surefooted, enduring and well adapted to the environment. Overnights along the trail are in cottages on private reserves and in the heritage farmhouses within the Aghulas National Park, which will reveal to you some of the treasures of the Overberg and give an insight into the land and its people.
Suitable for low intermediate to advanced riders. Extend your trip and spend a few extra days in Capetown.
Supreme Spa & Spur hotel
Lipizzaner riding centre in Austria's wine region
Hacks, driving, dressage lessons with a top trainer on Lipizzaners. This beautiful region, just south of Vienna, is known for its gentle wooded hills, its historical castles, its first class wines, its 300 days of sunshine each year and its healing thermal springs.
The modern resort stands in an impressive, isolated 120 hectare site, with extensive spa, leisure and sporting facilities. It has a superb 2* restaurant (Gault Millau 2007) and is a perfect place for adults wanting to get away from it all, relax and 'regenerate'. No children allowed. The owner has his own Lipizzaner stud farm and is the president of the European Lipizzaner society. He was also awarded 'Spa Hotelier of the Year' for the stylish Yin Yang spa.
Ashtanga Yoga courses with the inspiring Silvia Hammerl, especially designed for riders. Qi Gong and Tuina with the resident Shaolin grand master monk, Ayurveda, Hamam, meditation, Shiatsu, Tai Chi and more.
This is a great place to bring your non riding partners or friends; there is an 27 hole golf course, with David Leadbetter golf academy, a tennis academy and wine tastings. The Supreme is perfect for couples or for a girls' pampering weekend!
Combine a riding holiday here with a trip to the Spanish Riding School in Vienna. More details...
Castles
Austria, Ireland and France
Castle Muhldorf, Austria:
Beautifully restored medieval castle on the banks of the River Danube where luxury, sophistication and tradition co-exist in perfect harmony. Learn to drive in historic carriages with instruction by international tournament winner. Jumping and dressage tuition (to advanced medium level) with German warmbloods, Holsteiner line. Novice to advanced riders welcome.
Visits to the Estate blacksmith and first aid for horses with the resident vet. The privately owned castle estate is set in its own grounds surrounded by unspoilt majestic landscape. Beautiful picnic baskets available for lunches in the rose garden or by the river. Pamper and relax at the M-Spa. Saunas, massages, facial and body treatments including hot stone massage and Ayurveda treatments. There is also a beautiful water garden with outdoor swimming facilities surrounded by elegant lawns. Delicious gourmet meals in vaulted hunting lodge restaurant. Al-fresco lunches or afternoon tea in the pretty courtyard. Stylish piano bar. More details...
Chateau de Curzay, France:
The Château, built in 1710, is an exceptionally peaceful and elegant 4* hotel between Paris and Bordeaux. Standing in grounds covering 120 hectares, crossed by a river and bordered by two-hundred-year-old trees. It is a delightful place which is also every horse rider's dream. L'Atelier du Cheval provides a full range of equestrian activities where a total novice can ride for the sheer pleasure of it, or a champion sportsperson can practice and improve skills. Customised riding programmes tailor-made by your personal riding coach to your ability with jumping and dressage to high level . Riding courses for beginners of all ages and abilities.
Hacks around the estate and ponies for young children. Ride morning and afternoon then relax in the lovely (heated) outdoor pool, have a massage and prepare for evening drinks by the fire in the elegant lounge followed by a gastronomic treat. Enjoy old-fashioned pleasures: rambling, biking, boating, billiards, croquet, picnics by the river. Romantic get aways: rowing on the Vonne, champagne balloon flight, romantic ride amongst the roe deer, private candle-lit dinner set up beneath the ancient ceder trees. Cookery classes and pasty chef classes at the 'Atelier de Cuisine" with Michelin-starred chef. During this session , the Chief (1 star Michelin) will help you in the selection of the best products and will teach you new cooking techniques.
More details:
Castle Leslie, Ireland:
The Estate is one of the last great Irish Castles still in the hands of its founding family. As one of Europe’s finest equestrian playgrounds, Castle Leslie Estate offers memorable horse riding holiday experiences for riding enthusiasts of all levels. Nestled on 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside, dotted with ancient woodlands and glittering lakes, the Estate offers an idyllic setting for outdoor activity and adventure. It is the perfect place to discover the thrill of exploring the beautiful Irish countryside on horseback. We welcome riders of all ability and age groups, as long as you’re over seven! We offer expert tuition, gentle hacks and exhilarating cross-country rides. The Equestrian Centre combines the authentic charm of a country estate with all the amenities you’d expect from one of Ireland’s best horse-riding locations:
- 1,000 acres of private estate
- 300 new cross-country jumps from knee high to knee tremblers built by Willis Bros. of Badminton Horse Trials fame
- 21 miles of meandering bridleways
- Mile-long all-weather gallop
- 56 stables
- Virtual horse for beginners
- 50×30 metre indoor arena with indoor cross-country fences
- Tiered seating for 200 plus private dining/viewing room
The Estate offers an idyllic setting for outdoor activity and adventure. It’s the perfect place to discover the thrill of exploring the countryside on horseback or foot, but you can also spend a few hours fishing on one of Ireland's best-preserved lakes. Alternatively, you might prefer to enjoy a massage in the Victorian Treatment Rooms at the end of an activity packed day or relax with a book in one of our many beautiful rooms.
More details:
Saddle and Surf in Southern Spain
Riding Adventures in Andalucia
Gallop along the beach, in just a t-shirt all year round. This Andalucian equestrian hotel is perfectly located, right on the beach. Watch the sunset in the romantic beach bar, have a go at kite-surfing, surfing or wind-surfing in the hotels' own wave school. Have a riding lesson in the sandschool with the most spectacular view - over a sparkling sea to the mountains of Morocco beyond. 20 well trained Andalucian and Andalucian cross horses. Great pool, tennis, cool restaurant, beach chalets, bar. Perfect climate for a holiday at any time of the year.
For experienced riders, there are some terrific full day rides, (4-5hrs, with lunch break), including the Paloma Baja beach ride, through pine woods to a deserted coastal region, part of a nature reserve. Another ride takes us up into the mountains to the Sanctuary of the Light, to savour the spectacular views and then ride back through the famous cork forests of Andalucia. This is real Spanish countryside where farm animals run wild and locals are mounted. Not to be missed is the sand dune ride. The dunes are situated at the back of one of the most famous windsurfing bays of Europe where we climb up on the huge sand dunes to slide down the back. This has to be experienced. Picnic lunch in a scented pine forest behind the dunes before riding back to the stables. Most days end with a magical sunset beach ride - either a gentle stroll through the surf or an exhilarating gallop. 7 and 4 night breaks.
Learn the Spanish style of riding on a well trained Andalucian horse with our special weekly riding courses (for novice to experienced riders). 10 hours of flexible lessons spread over the week with the chance for some good fast gallops along the beach or some gentle rides along the beach, depending on your level of experience. This is the 'Relax Riding programme'.
Special childrens' and adult beginners' riding courses. Learn to take care of your own horse for the week. You will learn the principles of natural riding with 1 hour of ground work in the sandschool and 1 ride on the beach each day.
On your free day, we recommend the day trip to the Royal School of Equestrian Art in Jerez, the horse capital of Andalucia, where you can see the most beautiful pure Andalucian stallions 'dance' the highest level of dressage.
Tyrolean Trails at the Interalpen Hotel - Tyrol, Austria
The Interalpen Hotel - Tyrol is a 5* luxury spa hotel in a spectacular Alpine location; perfect for a holiday at any time of year. Rides out on haflngers for novice to experienced riders, picnic carriage rides and a whole host of other activities including golf, tennis, hunting and fishing. It has one of the most beautiful and luxurious spas in the Alps with a panorama pool for indoor and outdoor swimming with a view onto the surrounding mountain scenery. Kids and teens activity club during holidays. Personal fitness trainers. Ride and Ski in winter. Romantic sleigh rides. More details...
Avance Activity Hotel, Austrian wine region
Riding courses on Lipizzaners for kids, golf and tennis academies for kids, free all day kids club, great facilities for adults such as separate pool and spa and adult sports program
4* family resort set in the beautiful wine region south of Vienna, with extensive sporting and leisure facilities.
Riding with Lipizzaners, bred on site by the owner, who is head of the European Lipizzaner Society. Combine a riding holiday here with a trip to the Spanish Riding School in Vienna.
Fun Riding Course for kids and teens. Excellent free kids club, split into different age groups. Kasimir's Kid's World is 120 m2 with its own terrace, with full time creative professional childcare from 9 am to 9 pm daily. Weekly barbeque evening, daily activity programmes. Soft play area for youngsters and safari lodge with DVD and music centre for older kids, children's creative workshop. Fun Golf for kids: David Leadbetter Junior Start Up. 3 day golf course (Thurs to Sat) for beginners and advanced children and youngsters, with 2 hours training daily.
For Adults: The Avance Hotel has its own pools, fitness, health and beauty areas offering an extensive array of therapies and treatments in the new architect designed Beauty Pavilion. You may choose to spend time with your kids (you can even eat in the kids' restaurant) or escape to your own pool with its extensive choice of saunas and steamrooms. There is an all day free poolside health and juice bar here where you can also have an early morning 'dressing gown' breakfast. Free participation in the adult activity programme (yoga, Nordic walking, water aerobics etc). Adults can hack or take dressage or driving lessons. More details...
The Pristava Chalets
Trail riding on Lipizzaners in Slovenian national park, Julian Alps, ride & raft, ride & paraglide
The 4* Pristava is a small cluster of rustic huts perched on a high plateau wedged in between the Austrian and Italian borders.
It overlooks the famous Soca river in the heart of the Triglav national park - possibly one of the most beautiful and unspoilt places in Europe.
The riding is wild; trail riding across rivers, climbing up into the mountains, galloping across meadows, all on a beautiful white Lipizzaner pony. This is the indigenous breed of Slovenia, from the days when it was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The Pristava is a place for nature lovers; you will rarely encounter anyone else on your rides or hikes. But don't think you have to rough it; the huts are designed for contemporary living. There is a sauna and fitness area, a tennis court and a beautiful swimming pool, all nestled between the trees and the rocks. There is a delicious restaurant, specialising in local organic dishes, a cosy western style bar where everyone meets up in the evenings (during holidays), and a club room with stunning views up the valley. In addition to the trail riding, lessons are available in the friendly riding school and there are ponies for young children. There is a playground hidden amongst the boulders in the forest. More details...
CampoReal Spa Resort Portugal
CampoReal Portugal
Lessons, laughter and lots more 30minutes from Lisbon Airport. Beginner or experienced riders and non-riders will have a wonderful time on a riding holiday with The CampoReal Golf Resort & Spa.
The impressive five-star Westin CampoReal has a special surprise in store for riders of all ages and abilities.
Just a short walk from the hotel is CampoReal Equestrian Centre; a hive of activity comprising as it is does, a riding school and competition centre.
With championship show jumping horses to advanced Lusitano dressage stallions and cute first ponies all ages and abilities of riders can be accommodated.
Specific four-day and eight-day riding holidays include a lesson every day and, after an assessment ride, the potential to enjoy a short trek or a scenic tour through local vineyards from the comfort of a horse and carriage.
At the hotel there’s a wealth of opportunities for families and individuals to enjoy from private spa, gym, tennis courts, swimming pools galore, a fabulous golf course and excellent cuisine. Kids club. Car hire recommended for trips to the beaches and local historical sites and towns.
What more could you wish for?
The Pule Estate, Slovenia woodlands
Hacks on Lipizzaners through unspoilt farmland. Ride & Relax..
The Pule Estate has an almost spiritual peacefulness about it. This 4* hotel is a collection of beautifully restored farm buildings which stand isolated on a hilltop plateau surrounded by beech and oak woodlands. Accommodation is in one of seven extremely luxurious chalets.
Riding highlights include a hack to a nearby medieval castle and another to a local historical town. The Pule is perfect for adults wanting to get away from it all and immerse themselves in an atmosphere of peace and pampering at the highest level. More details...
Tanzania
Serengeti Safari Tanzania
Luxury lodges with outstanding wildlife viewing. Five day mobile rides in a 350,000 acres private game reserve for experienced riders only.
Small groups of just 6 riders cover about 40km a day witnessing a large variety of game, close-up, from the back of your horse, accompanied by a knowledgable guide.
After an exhilarating days riding, sundowners, spa and pool at the luxury lodge or at the equally stylish bush camp.
Singita Grumeti Reserves offers an unparalleled eco-safari teeming with magnificent wildlife encounters on the western corridor of the Serengeti. This vast private concession comprises an exclusive trio of luxury lodges positioned ideally on the epic migratory route traversed annually by more than a million wildebeest. If it is solitude you seek then Singita Grumeti Reserves is the place to be!
Singita Sasakwa Lodge offers pure luxury, where exquisite views of the sun-kissed Serengeti dominate every setting.
Radiating simplistic elegance in the middle of the Serengeti plains, Singita Sabora Tented Camp evokes a romantic Out of Africa adventure with vintage tents dressed in classic Edwardian safari style.
Situated on a rocky slope, Singita Faru Faru Lodge offers barefoot elegance in a laid-back rustic setting. Open-style suites, each with an outdoor shower or bath, allow guests to view game without even leaving their suite, and a Swahili-inspired ‘beach’ offers the opportunity for some serious rest and relaxation. More details:
Chateau de Curzay
Romantic weekends
The Château de Curzay, built in 1710, is an exceptionally peaceful and elegant 4* hotel between Paris and Bordeaux. Standing in grounds covering 120 hectares, crossed by a river and bordered by two-hundred-year-old trees. It is a delightful place which is also every horse rider's dream. L'Atelier du Cheval provides a full range of equestrian activities where a total novice can ride for the sheer pleasure of it, or a champion sportsperson can practice and improve skills.
Customised riding programmes tailor-made by your personal riding coach to your ability with jumping and dressage to high level . Riding courses for beginners of all ages and abilities.
Hacks around the estate and ponies for young children. Ride morning and afternoon then relax in the lovely (heated) outdoor pool, have a massage and prepare for evening drinks by the fire in the elegant lounge followed by a gastronomic treat. Enjoy old-fashioned pleasures: rambling, biking, boating, billiards, croquet, picnics by the river.
Romantic get aways: rowing on the Vonne, champagne balloon flight, romantic ride amongst the roe deer, private candle-lit dinner set up beneath the ancient ceder trees.
Cookery classes and pasty chef classes at the 'Atelier de Cuisine" with Michelin-starred chef. During this session , the Chief (1 star Michelin) will help you in the selection of the best products and will teach you new cooking techniques.
At the end of the Class you will receive detailed recipes so that you can cook them easily back home.
Peru
Machu Picchu lodge to lodge ride
One of the 'Top 50 Tours of a Lifetime' according to National Geographic Traveler and one of 'World's 25 Best New Trips' National Geographic Adventure.
A new trail has opened up to the legendary Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, where you can stay in luxury lodges instead of camping, where you will barely encounter another soul and where you can ride on horseback as well as hike by foot.
You will ride fit and intelligent Uruguayan Quarter horses up over the Salkantay Pass (4600 m or 15,000 ft) on terrain ranging from the agricultural plains of the Sacred Valley still carved with pre-Inca terracing, to high Alpine pastures with Condors circling overhead. From the glaciers at the mountain pass, you descend through the humid Cloud Forest on the other side of the Andes where vegetation soon turns tropical. Isolated Llamas and mules give way to exotic butterflies and flocks of green parrots. Wild orchids, tobacco, banana, coffee and avocado plants line the path as we descend through remote villages down to the river and the last lodge. The final day is a hike up to Machu Picchu itself, in the company of our private guide. Nothing can prepare you for this sight at the end of such a 'pilgrimage', nestling in an amphitheatre of mountain peaks swathed in swirling mists. It will literally take your breath away.
Arriving at one of the mountain lodges at the end of a day in the saddle is heavenly ! You are greeted with a hot drink by a roaring fire then you soak in the outdoor hot tub gazing up at the stars whilst a gourmet meal is prepared for you. At night, you snuggle down under soft feather duvets and dream of tomorrow's adventure. The lodges are all staffed by locals who work with the owner to bring health and prosperity to their villages. You will have many opportunities to visit (and even get involved) in some of the charitable projects in progress along the route.
Improve your Riding
Dressage and Jumping holidays
Dressage is the essence of riding, since dressage teaches the horses to answer to the codes we give to perform several specific movements. So, dressage is necessary for all types of riding whether it be jumping, eventing or hacking. For dressage, learning 'control over the mind', is vital since it is an art/sport where everything depends on two living beings and their connection. In this sense, dressage develops our capacity to feel and to learn when to act or when to stay still.
Lusitano horses in Portugal
Lusitanos have a long term tradition as dressage horses – the High School in Lisbon was created in the 18th century using the Alter Real breed. Lusitanos are generous, calm, strong and gifted in a general way for all high school exercises.
Quinta da Fe: Dressage is a lifetime learning and nowhere will you understand this better than on an intense 'Dressage and Body Awareness' course with the charismatic Grand Prix rider and Olympic coach Marc de Wery. Riders new to dressage and children also welcome. More details:
Campo Real: 5 * luxury resort hotel offering advanced and traditional classical advanced ie: tempi changes, passage, piaffe (traditional advanced) and classical (ie: caprioles etc...) on highly trained Lusitanos. Limited rides out. Lots to do for accompanying non-riders/family. Novice dressage riders and kids welcome. More details
Lipizzaners in Austria
These beautiful white horses are regarded as the oldest classic horse breed in Europe, bred since 1570 to supply the Hapsburg Empire with cavalry and show horses. The Imperial Court Stud was situated originally near the village of Lipica (now in Slovenia) and it was this village which gave the breed its name. After the collapse of the Austrian-Hungarian Empire in 1920, the Austrian Republic became the legal successor and from this time the Lipizzaners have been bred at the federal Stud at Piber near Graz..
Reiter Resort Supreme (5*) and Reiter Resort Avance (4* family) hotels: home to one of the largest private stud farms for Lipizzaners. Dressage lessons from Novice up to Medium level, hacks on Lipizzaners, special kids' Lipizzaner courses, driving instruction (on Kladrubers). Luxury award-winning spa, golf and tennis academies, kids' clubs and lots more. Combine with a trip to Vienna to see the Spanish Riding School. More details: Avance and Supreme
Castle Muhldorf: 4* Medieval castle hotel offering advanced medium dressage including some flying changes and lateral work such as half pass etc... on German Warmbloods. Hacks and picnic rides along the Danube, kids' summer camp, golf, 'learn to ride' courses for all ages. Combine with a trip to Vienna to see the Spanish Riding School. More details
Dressage and Jumping
Strasserwirt, Austria: 3* traditional country hotel run by riding-enthusiast family. Jumping tuition and dressage to Medium level (ie: lateral movements) on warmbloods. Rides out on Alpine trails on Haflingers (not during winter). Beginners' riding courses for kids and adults. The owners' son is a Grand Prix jumping champion. More details
Chateau Curzay, France: 4* castle hotel offering riding courses for top level dressage and jumping. Novices welcome also. Children's ponies. Hacking within the Estate. Gourmet restaurant. More details
Dienstl Estate, Austria: 4* country hotel offering novice dressage and jumping tuition. Summer kids' pony camps. Polo. Details
Post-Tolderhof, Italy: 4* village hotel in Italian Dolomites. Jumping, dressage for novice to medium level. 'Learn to Ride' courses for all ages. Rides out in Alpine scenery. Driving. Ski & Ride in Winter. More details
Learn to Ride
Private adult riding courses and courses especially for children are offered in Austria at the Strasserwirt, the Reiter's Resorts (both Supreme and Avance), and at the Dienstl Estate. In Southern Spain, we offer a one week beginner's course at the Andulusian Trails centre in Tarifa. In Italy, we offer beginner's courses at the Post and also at the Orthal or Gaarten hotels.
Young Riders & Family Riding
Most of our holidays are suitable for families but vary in what they have to offer. You will find specific details relating to young riders here.
Avance Family Hotel: winelands, Austria, near Vienna. Riding courses on Lipizzaners for kids, golf and tennis academies for kids, free all day kids club, great facilities for adults such as separate pool and spa and adult sports program. Kids' theatre. 4* hotel sporting resort. More details...
The Kroller Family Hotel and Western Ranch Alps, Austria, is a paradise for kids both summer and winter. Daily rides out into spectacular landscape on Criollos, Quarter Horses and Paint Horses, ridden western style. Lessons for all ages and abilities. . All day free kids' activity club (until 9pm) with huge indoor and outdoor area. Pool. For parents: western saloon bar with live music and spa. In winter, rides in the snow, (near international ski resort), trekking and skiing. More details...
Summer Riding Camp (age 7-14) and lessons at the 4 * Dienstl Estate riding Centre in Austria lake district. Accompanying Adults may like to ride with other adults or take part in other organised activities. Kids' and adults' polo courses. More details...
Mountain Nature treks at the 3* Schlosswirt in the heart of one of the most beautiful national park s in Austria for experienced riders from age 8 riding with an adult. Overnights in remote camps and huts. More details...
Girls' Summer Riding Camp at the Medieval Castle, Northern Austria by river Danube. Unaccompanied camp at the farmhouse on the estate of this 11th Century castle. Outdoor pool and spa. Parents can enjoy some peace and pampering in the castle hotel or follow their own riding/driving programme, play golf or stroll along the banks of the Danube. More details...
Combination Tours
Don't want to ride every day? One of you doesn't ride?
Golf & Ride: The 27 hole Danube Golf Complex is just a Tiger Drive from the Medieval Castle and home to the largest golf academy in Austria. New and exclusive at Castle Mühlforf: Heligolf. Fly in style to the most beautiful golf courses in Austria.
David Leadbetter Golf Academy available at the superb golf course (18 and 9 holes) at the Supreme and the Avance hotels. Special golf courses for kids.
Bike & Ride and Hike & Ride: Fantastic trails for mountain biking and hiking in the High Tauern national park. See Schlosswirt Mountain Adventure, Post Hotel and Strasserwirt. Maps and guides available.
Ski & Ride: Please see the Winter Riding & Skiing section.
Paraglide & Ride: Superb paragliding sites at HeiligenBlut (2604m) near to the Schlosswirt. Independent flying or with guiding/tuition from the local school. Distance coaching with one of the world's top instructors available for groups on request. Tandem flights can also be organised at the Pristava Chalets.
Raft & Ride: Raft down the world famous Soca river, in the heart of the beautiful Julian Alps, which is fast becoming the new adrenalin adventure capital of Europe. Trail riding on Lipizzaners in remote areas of the national park. Also canyoning, kayaking and canoeing and fly fishing. See the Pristava Chalets for further details.
Combinations with other organised sports available on request: Hiking and biking with a guide, rock climbing courses, kayaking, canyoning and summer skiing (at the Schlosswirt on the Molltaler Glacier) are all available. Kite-surfing and wind surfing is on offer at the Tarifa Trails hotel on the beach in Southern Spain. Cookery courses are available with riding in Tuscany and Ireland. Contact us for more details.
Ride & Spa
The 4* Post Hotel in Italy: Beauty and Spa area (200m2) with indoor pool, Finnish and herb saunas, aroma steam bath. Full range of beauty and relaxation treatments including Vulcanic stone massages, Cucurbita Pumpkin scrubs, relaxing hay baths, mud detox, Cleopatra milk bath and Pantai Luar body treatments. Riding out into the mountains on Haflingers for experienced riders, driving, riding lessons. Transfer from Innsbruck. More details...
The 4* Medieval Castle (with driving or hacking, Linz): Spa area with steam bath, solarium, sauna, hot stone massage and Ayurveda treatments. Exclusive facial and body treatments with Gruber products. There is also a beautiful water garden with outdoor swimming facilities. Driving courses, riding lessons, hacks along the Danube. Transfer from Linz. More details...
The 5* Reiter Supreme Hotel: Daily Ashtanga yoga sessions with yoga expert, personal fitness coach, thermal indoor and outdoor, fresh and salt water pools, hot whirlpool, Roman steam grotto, organic herb steam room and various saunas, pool bar with fresh juices and vitamin drinks. The Beauty Farm offers an extensive range of products, massages and treatments for men and women. Hairdressers, skin and hair advice. More details...
Winter Riding & Skiing
Winter Riding at the Post hotel in the stunning Italian Dolomites: Daily rides out on Haflingers into stunning Alpine scenery throughout the winter for intermediate to experienced riders. Lessons on warmbloods from own stud in dressage, jumping and carriage driving on two-span carriages. Highly qualified riding instructors for beginners to advanced riders. Ski joerring, sleigh rides. Excellent skiing at Kronplatz, part of the huge Dolomiti Superski area (Alta Badia / Cortina / Val Gardena). Indoor pool & spa. More details...
Winter Riding at the Kroller Family hotel and Western Ranch: Perched in small village on a high pass in spectacular landscape. Daily rides out into the deep snow on Criollos, Quarter Horses and Paint Horses equipped with special winter shoes. Children (11+) can join treks. Younger kids ride at the hotel. Kids' paradise including all day kids' activity club (indoor and outdoor). Western saloon bar with live music. Indoor pool and spa. Connected to the huge Zillertal ski area. Own ski school and ski hire shop. More details...
Winter Riding at the Schlosswirt: Romantic 3* national park hotel offers numerous different daily snow treks in dramatic winter landscape on Haflinger ponies ridden western style. Skiing, snowboarding and ice climbing at Heiligenblut ski resort. No riding lessons. Resident ski guide for off-piste and ski touring. Moonlight rides and sleigh rides. More details...
Winter Riding at the Strasserwirt: Traditional 3* family-run riding hotel in spectacular valley in the heart of the beautiful Tyrol region. Lessons and training in the sandschool on warmbloods and arab horses run throughout the winter. Several short rides out available on haflingers. Sleigh rides. Skiing in the Pillerseetal for beginners and intermediates. Ski bus to various other ski resorts in the valley. More details...
Winter Riding at the Orthal Albergo Riding Centre, Northern Italy: Daily rides out in the gentle rolling hills around the Asiago plateau. Excellent riding lessons all winter in the outdoor sand school for adults and children of all ages with the charismatic Massimo. Base either in his bed & breakfast or in the nearby luxury spa hotel. The Albergo has its own ski slope right outside the front door, with its own ski school and ski hire shop. The area is perfect for beginners and families and there are several other small ski stations in the area. Paradise for cross-country skiers. More details...
Winter riding at the Interalpen Hotel - Tyrol, Austria: 5* luxury spa hotel in spectacular Alpine location. Daily rides out on haflingers and skiing in the Seefeld International ski arena. Sleigh rides, picnic carriage rides, and a whole host of other activities including golf, tennis, hunting and fishing. The spa is one of the most beautiful and luxurious in the Alps, with a panorama pool for indoor and outdoor swimming with a view onto the surrounding mountain scenery. The hotel chef has been awarded two 'chefs hats' by the Gault Millau gourmet guide. More details...
The Orthal Albergo, Northern Italy
Daily rides out and lessons based at authentic family guest house. Riding with Fruits of the Forest Cookery course: an insight into Italian food and mountain traditions.
The Orthal riding centre is based at a small Albergo on the L'Altopiano di Asiago, a sunny plateau overlooking the Venetian plains. Massimo Rigoni is the charming owner who will take you on half-day or full day hacks through pretty, unspoilt countryside and villages. Beginner riding courses for all ages and abilities. Family skiing area during the winter months. Join one of our riding and cookery weeks where you will be collecting herbs and mushrooms and other produce on horseback then using them later to try out some local recipes.
Quinta da Fe
Portugal
Immerse yourself in the art of dressage in the Alentejo region of Portugal
A unique riding school, dedicated to dressage, to excite all standards of rider.
Quinta da Fe is the ultimate holiday destination for the dressage enthusiast.
Instruction is led by two exceptional and experienced riders and trainers who are equally gifted in communicating their riding philosophy – using video lessons, lunge lessons, individual and small group lessons – and always riding with music.
The cosy, five-bedroom farmhouse will become your shared home while the adjoining stable yard and sand schools set within orange groves and vineyards is a veritable sanctuary to the soul.
For those wishing to experience the true Portugal, food is cooked to traditional farmhouse recipes and there’s opportunity to visit the nearby town of Evora, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Any stresses and strains are bound to be released during your stay . Relax by the lovely pool or book a session with the on-site masseuse.
