Choose your riding holiday...
The Riding Company offers a bespoke personal service to match riders to the best hand picked riding holidays around the world.
Scroll down to see our full programme of holidays or get in touch and tell us what you are looking for and we will do the rest.
View by Countries
Come and ride in these beautiful places
EUROPE
Austria
Atzinger Stubai hotel: 4* Family hotel with excellent riding centre offering a Riding Kindergarten, horse-whispering and acrobatics courses for kids. Pool, Spa. Ride & Ski in Winter.
Avance Reiter's Resort: 4* Family hotel, outstanding kids' facilities/club with theatre etc.. dressage and lessons on Lipizzaners. Golf and tennis academies, spa, pools.
Ellmauhof hotel. 4* family hotel in mountain resort. Riding Kindergarten, hacks, lessons. Kids' clubs, pools, spa. Ride & Ski
The Dienstl Estate: in the lake district of Austria near Klagenfurt. Rural estate with hacks, lessons and summer pony camp.
Interalpen: 5* luxury in spectacular Alpine setting. Trail riding on haflingers for all. Spa, pools, sports, kids club. Ride & Ski
Kroller: 4* Family hotel with Western-style riding into the mountains. Spa, pools and kids club. Lessons. Ride & Ski
Martinerhof : relaxed 4* Family hotel near to Salzburg with pool, spa, outdoor riding, horsewhispering courses. Sleigh ride excursions. Great value for money. Ride & Ski
Muhldorf Castle: 4* medieval castle in rural setting, driving courses, dressage, golf, Spa.
Schlosswirt: Stylish cosy 3* log cabin style hotel in stunning Alpine national park. Glacier trail rides on haflingers. Ride & Ski
Strasserwirt: Traditional 3* hotel offering excellent riding tuition (jump, dressage and beginners). Haflingers.
Supreme: 5* luxury. No children. Hacks and dressage on Lipizzaner stallions. Award-winning spa. Ride & yoga.
Vienna: Visit the Spanish Riding School, birthplace of modern dressage, in this historic capital city. Carriage rides around the old city.
France
Chateau Curzay: Elegant 4* castle hotel offering riding lessons (jump and dressage) in beautiful rural setting.
Germany
Fiakerhof, Bavaria: Carriage driving course Summer and Winter in traditional 3* family guesthouse in famous ski resort of Garmisch Partenkirchen.
Ireland
Castle Leslie: Beautiful country Estate with excellent equestrian centre, fine dining, fine living.
Mount Juliet: Luxurious Manor House hotel with outstanding riding facilities including cross-country course and trail riding.
Italy
Post hotel: 4* Alpine hotel in Tyrolean village offering lessons, driving and mountain trail riding. Pool and Riding Spa. Ride & ski.
Santa Cristina Tuscany: Medieval Castle with pool offering daily riding excursions and lessons.
Lamm Alpine Fitness and Spa hotel: South Tyrol mountain 4* hotel with daily riding, biking and hiking programme. Ride and ski.
Mandra Edera, Sardinia: small country house hotel with pool. Short break or week long mobile ride to the coast, returning to the hotel each evening.
Portugal
Monte Aguentinho Do Campo: Carriage driving, dressage and hacking, all with quality Luistano stallions. Fantastic traditional accommodation, indoor and outdoor arenas, pool.
CampoReal: 5* luxury resort near the Silver Coast. Dressage, hacks on Lusitanos. Golf. Pools. Spa
Slovenia
Pule Estate: 4* quiet, stylish converted farm estate offering rides out on lipizzaners and driving.
Spain
Andalucian Coast: Fantastically located beach hotel. Half-day rides and lessons on Andalucian horses, near Tarifa. Ride & Surf. Winter sun.
Polo Academy, Sotogrande: 3, 4 and 5 day intensive polo courses in this glamourous coastal playground. Junior courses also available.
Menorca: Explore this magical peaceful Ballearic island on horseback. Binigaus Vell is a 4* rural hotel offering short breaks and weekly programmes.
AFRICAN CONTINENT
South Africa
Out in Africa Safaris Luxurious 'colonial' style camps on private reserve near Kruger National Park. Exhilarating fast-paced game-watching from horseback. The ultimate close-up safari on a 20 000Ha game reserve in Limpopo / Northern Province. 4-7 nights.
SOUTH AMERICA
Argentina
Estancia La Rosita: Luxurious colonial-style Estancia for some well-deserved pampering on the pampas. Polo, Gaucho experience.
NORTH AMERICA
California
Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort: 5* luxury ranch, delicious food, trail riding for all abilities, fantastic range of alternative activities.
Ricochet Ridge Ranch: Situated in a beautiful coastal setting, unique chance to learn about endurance riding from expert Lari Shea, recommended for experienced riders, includes day trips.
Family Riding Holidays
Great family holidays. Some venues have kids' clubs where parents can choose to do their own thing on some or all days, others offer the facility for mums, dads and kids of different ages to pursue different activities or do something all together (not just riding!).
The Martinerhof: relaxed 4* traditional family hotel just close to Salzburg, Austria, making this a great venue for the whole family. Combine with a Sound of Music tour in Salzburg! Carriage/sleigh ride excursions (half day with panorama picnic stop). Local ski run with ski school for kids. Kids club. Rides out whatever the season on the coloured horses on extensive bridle paths. Horsewhispering courses for kids and adults. Great value for money. Pool, Spa, kids' club.
The 4* Ellmauhof family and children’s hotel with its own farm stretches over a 37-hectare site above Saalbach Hinterglemm. A riding centre with Haflingers, Icelandics and ponies, all kinds of small animals, a riding hall and a pony carousel blends perfectly into this splendid landscape of meadows, fields and woods. 10,000m2 play and leisure area boasts 2 playgrounds, a go-cart track, a football pitch, a beach volleyball court, an outdoor pool and a fishing pond. Riding Kindergarten from age 3, indoor petting zoo, skiing in winter (hotel is on the ski slopes). Teen chill out and activity programme. Outstanding kids' club.
4* Avance Family Hotel: in the glorious winelands of Austria, near Vienna. Specialises in families, part of the Kinder Hotels scheme. 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. A wonderful modern venue for families.
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. Hacks from age 11. 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, skiing with own ski lift and ski school (near international ski resort), trekking.
The Atzinger Stubai 4* family hotel in the Tyrol, Austria: 4* Family hotel with excellent riding centre offering a Riding Kindergarten with free daily pony rides from 4yrs old, horse-whispering and acrobatics courses for kids. Pool, Spa. Excellent skiing at international ski resort the Stubai Glacier and at Schlick 2000.
Junior Polo courses near the famous Sotogrande polo fields in Southern Spain. Polo courses are availale for all levels - from complete beginners with no riding experience at all through to players who feel it's time to improve their riding or playing ability. The courses can be tailored to suit your children's individual requirements and wishes. Three to five day intensive polo courses for children under 16 years of age.
Hotel Strasserwirt - A lovely 3 * family run hotel in a beautiful Alpine Austrian valley. A super equestrian venue with great learn-to-ride programmes for beginners (jumping and dressage) and lessons and hacks for intermediates, both adults and children can enjoy the indoor and outdoor facilities, home bred Arabs and Warmbloods and Haflingers for hacking on glorious mountain trails.
Andalucian Coast, Spain: beach bungalows right on the sand, beach rides and full day riding excursions. Windsurfing and kitesfurfing school, whale watching boat trips. Loads to do for all the family. Beginner's riding courses for the whole family. Dune rides. Great in Spring and Autumn half terms.
Saddle and Surf in Southern Spain
Beach Rides 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.
Castello di Santa Cristina
Italian Castle in Tuscany
The Castello Di Santa Cristina offers the most wonderful riding in the heart of Southern Tuscany. The Castello is located at the heart of an area of historic interest; it is close close to many famous Southern Tuscan towns including Orvieto, Pitigliano and Bolsena. Explore the ancient Etruscan tombs in Grotte Di Castro or the castle of Torre Alfina. The Castello is available all year round and allows you to improve your riding skills with lessons with English-speaking trainers and also to explore the countryside to ride past captivating lakes, enchanting castles, etruscan tombs and through wooded hills. The rides venture through Onano, Proceno, Lake Bolsena and the nature reserve Selva Del Lamone, at a pace suited to your riding ability and with breaks to sample the famous Tuscan cuisine. Lakesand Castles ride on the ancient Brigands path, a Medieval Castle ride, and mid week break and a long weekend break are all offered. More details
Dressage and Jumping holidays
Combine your love of dressage with a relaxing holiday in some of Europe’s most beautiful places. Spanish Riding School visits to Vienna with riding on Lipizzaners. Country Houses, Castles and Warmbloods in Germany and Italy, Lusitanos in Portugal. Alpine hotels with dressage and superb mountain trails to mix and match.
Dressage is necessary for all types of riding whether it be jumping, eventing or hacking. From Intro to Grand Prix, let us tailor make a holiday for you, your friends and family (non riders welcome). Our dressage consultant is on hand to advise you on which of our dressage holidays would best suit you. Get in touch and discuss where you need help and what level you ride at and we will run through the options, whether you are new to dressage or want some hot tips from our Olympic trainer in Portugal. penny@theridingcompany.com or call 01534 745795.
Austria:
Lipizzaners: 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.. Gala performances by highly trained Lipizzaner stallions can be seen at the Spanish Riding School in Vienna but you can ride your own at the Reiter Resort Supreme (5*) and the Reiter Resort Avance (4* family hotel with kids’ club). These two venues are 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. Combine with a trip to Vienna to see the Spanish Riding School.
The Stanglwirt 5* organic hotel in the stunningTyrolean Alps. Fantasy-inducing setting with dream spa, fitness and sporting facilities. Dressage for all levels on Lipizzaners. Combine with ski-ing in Winter.
Strasserwirt: 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. Beginners' riding courses for kids and adults. The owners' son is a Grand Prix jumping champion.
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. Jumping tuition and 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
The Spanish Riding School in Vienna: birthplace of modern dressage, see a gala performance on Lipizzaner stallions in the beautiful baroque hall in this historic capital city. Carriage ride tours of the old city, Lipizzaner stable and museum tours. Extend your stay with a few days riding a Lipizzaner stallion of your own.
Post-Tolderhof: 4* village hotel in Italian Dolomites. Dressage for novice to medium level. 'Learn to Ride' courses for all ages. Rides out in Alpine scenery. Driving and jumping tuition. Ski & Ride in Winter. Pool, Riders’ Spa treatments.
Portugal: Lusitano horses at the 5* Campo Real Riders new to dressage and more experienced riders welcome. Lusitanos have a long 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.
Riding combined with other Activities
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. Also, the Campo Real has an excellent golf course.
Bike & Ride and Hike & Ride: Fantastic trails for mountain biking and hiking in the High Tauern national park, Austria Schlosswirt Mountain Adventure, Post Hotel in the Italian Dolomites and Strasserwirt in the Austria Tyrol region. Maps and guides available.
Ski & Ride: Please see the Winter Riding & Skiing section.
Cookery courses combined with riding: Chateau Curzay: Elegant 4* castle hotel offering riding lessons (jump and dressage) and cookery classes in beautiful rural setting in France (the restaurant has a MIchelin star). Ireland, Castle Leslie: Beautiful country Estate with excellent equestrian centre, fine dining, fine living. Highly recommended cookery classes.
Ride & Yoga weeks and weekends at the 5* luxurious Spa hotel, the Supreme in Austria. Riding on Lipizzaners (lessons, dressage and hacks) and yoga and Qi Gong courses.
Saddle and Surf : beach riding combined with kite-surfing and wind-surfing at the hotel's own wind school in Southern Spain.
Driving Holidays
Learn to drive a carriage or improve your skills
Whether you are a complete beginner, wanting to brush up your skills or are an experienced driver wanting to experience driving in new surroundings, we have something for you. Carriage driving is for all ages - children through to pensioners have all enjoyed our courses.
No knowledge of horse riding is necessary.
Italy: Post Hotel in the Italian Dolomites: The Hotel Post lies in the heart of a popular mountain village in the Dolomites. It has a lovely indoor pool, sauna and steam grotto in the new 900m2 spa and offers various massages, aromatherapy soaks and beauty treatments. The restaurant offers delicious gourmet food from the Alpe-adria region. The stud farm is the largest horse-riding and driving centre in South Tyrol and it is waiting for you with 30 horses, warmbloods and Haflingers, a riding arena, a brightly-lit sandschool, professional riding and driving instructors. Three-time Italian driving champion Hannes Weilaner skilfully manages the stud farm as well as running the carriage-driving course. More details
Austria: The 5* Supreme Hotel in Burgenland offers the opportunity to drive on one of the longest tracks in Austria. Private driving lessons cost £65 and the resort has top class indoor and outdoor equestrian and other sporting facilities. Follow the link to this wonderful spa and sporting hotel. This venue can be combined with a few nights in the charming Capital of Vienna - highlights include a fiaker (carriage) ride round the old city and visits to the Spanish Riding School more details
Germany: The Haflingerhof in Bavarian Alps. This traditional family-run country hotel in the Allgäu village of Roßhaupten offers a riding stable with Haflinger horses and driving courses.
Portugal: Monte Aguentinho Do Campo offers the chance to learn driving with multi skilled horseman, Nuno Baptista. Take the reins of a Lusitano stallion, learn how to long rein a horse then get out in the carriage over the estate's trails. Driving can be combined with riding lessons if you wish. Super farmhouse accommodation and delightful infinity swimming pool. More details
Spur & Spa
Ride and Relax
The 4* Post Hotel in Alpine village setting, Northern Italy: Special RIDERS SPA treatments designed for the specific needs of riders. 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, driving, riding lessons. Transfer from Innsbruck.
The 5* InterAlpen hotel in Tyrolean mountains in Austria: large hotel in isolated setting. Spas don't come much more luxurious or extensive than this. Rooms with spectacular mountain views. Hacks on haflingers and Tigerschecken horses, dressage lessons on the Friesian stallion.
The 4* Medieval Castle in Austria wine region near LInz. Peaceful old-world location. Small 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.
The Achenkirch 5* Reiter's Resort in the Tyrolean Alps, Austria. A haven of peace and tranquility. Fantasy-inducing setting with dream spa, fitness and sporting facilities. The Spa or 'Well-being Zone' is the largest in the Alps with every imaginable pampering treatment, two Shaolin monks available as part of the Tai Chi, Qi Gong and Chinese massage programme. 20 beauty therapists await you (male or female). In-house fitness trainer. Dressage on Lipizzaners, hacks. Fresh and saltwater pools (indoor and outdoor), hayseed pool, tropical rain grotto, 'The Sunken Temple sauna' (circular meditation room lit by a constant flame) with a bridge to the ice-fountain, Finnish, Turkish and Steam baths, Camomile grotto. Sauna area made of natural materials and Himalayan salt crystal. Beauty centre with Hammam/Rasul, Alpine/St Barth/ Vino Viness treatments and traditional chinese medicine (TCM). Oxygen therapy, Tyrolean Rock Oil treatments. Lady spa area and couples treatment rooms available. Try the 'Neo Qi Energy Cocoon' - like a futuristic egg that surrounds you with light, showers and vibrations to help you rejuvenate and relax. Zöhrerhaus meditation centre.
The 5* Reiter Supreme Riding with Yoga classes. Large hotel sporting and golf resort in Austrian wine region South of Vienna: Daily Hatha 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. Riding on Lipizzaners, dressage lessons and hacks.
Castle Leslie in Ireland: Relax and rejuvenate in spectacular surroundings with a pamper escape at the 5* Castle Leslie.. A visit to the Victorian Treatment Rooms will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalised. Lessons, hacks and cross-country. With seven treatment rooms, two Victorian steam boxes, a relaxation area and hot tubs overlooking the stables, it’s the perfect place to ease your weary muscles after a day in the saddle. Highly-trained therapists will pamper you with a range of traditional organic therapies from the ‘Eminence Organics’ range. Lessons for dressage and jumping and beginners, hacks and cross-country course offered.
Chateau de Curzay, France: Beautiful, peaceful rural estate with Michelin star restaurant. Small spa with range of beauty treatments. Riding lessons or hacks through the elegant country Estate.
Horizon Safaris South Africa: Join the fabulous Horizon Health week: Combine an incredibly varied horse riding experience for all levels of rider: outrides, game viewing, cattle mustering, with a pilates course alongside the pool and lake together with a range of salon treatments for a truly magical experience. Pilates: As part of this wonderful trip, each day will start with a Pilates lesson with BASI qualified instructor Dr. Tina Du Toit. Treatments: In between horse riding and pilates, enjoy a range of salon treatments such as from indian head massages to aromatherapy, Shiatsu and energy healing. Horizon is well known and loved for its passion for food. They serve a selection of low fat, well balanced yet utterly delicious meals, all accompanied with an abundance of fresh summer fruits, salads and vegetable from our organic vegetable garden.
Beach Rides
Andalucian Coast: 4* beach hotel Southern Spain. Half-day rides on Andalucian horses, near Tarifa. Gallop along the beach, in just a t-shirt all year round. This equestrian hotel is perfectly located, right on the beach. Watch the sunset in the romantic beach bar, have a go at kite-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. Great pool, tennis, cool restaurant, beach chalets, bar.
Menorca: Spain.Explore this magical peaceful Ballearic island on horseback. Binigaus Vell is a 4* rural hotel offering short breaks. The Binigaus is inland from the coast but many of the rides make use of the island's beautiful coastline which contains ancient bridle paths used as part of the military defenses.
South Africa at Grootbos Nature Reserve. 5* luxury. Whale watching in season.
Ricochet Ridge Ranch: Situated in a beautiful Californian coastal setting, unique chance to learn about endurance riding from expert Lari Shea, recommended for experienced riders, includes day trips.
Mandra Edera, Sardinia: small country house hotel in the heart of the countryside. Short break of 4 nights with daily rides at the beach (based at the beach stables), returning the hotel each afternoon for relaxing by the pool or sight seeing. Week long mobile ride to the coast, returning to the hotel each evening, joining the horses each morning where they were left in a paddock the previous evening.
Western Riding
Western Riding is becoming ever more popular and is not just available in the USA. With large, comfortable saddles and longer stirrups, Western Riding is ideal for longer days on the trail and mountainous terrain. Try one of our holidays where you will have the opportunity to enjoy amazing scenery and adventurous trails ridden cowboy style.
Kroller: 4* Family hotel Western-style riding into the Austrian Alps. Spa, pools and kids club. Daily trail rides on Criollos, Quarter Horses and Paint Horses. A different half-day picnic ride each day into unspoilt landscape. Kids' paradise at The Pony Hoo - an all day kids' activity club (indoor and outdoor). Riding facilities include an excellent western riding school, The Kroller Academy, teaching both adults and children of all standards. The facilities include a Western saloon bar with live music. Indoor and outdoor pools and 'Indian Spirits' spa.
Schlosswirt: A stylish, cosy 3* hotel in an Austrian national park. High Alpine trail rides on Haflingers ridden Western style, including overnight stays in traditional mountain huts on the longer rides. Situated on the edge of the village in the stunning Moelltal valley, it is nestled between woods and streams and surrounded by the grand peaks of the High Tauern national park, including Austria's highest mountain, the Grossglockner. Nature and Wildlife Riding Trips up to the largest glacier in the Eastern Alps.
Italy: Lamm Alpine Fitness and Spa hotel: South Tyrol mountain 4* hotel with daily riding, biking and hiking programme. Ride and ski in Winter.
California:
Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort: 5* luxury ranch, delicious food, trail riding for all abilities, fantastic range of alternativ.
Ricochet Ridge Ranch: Situated in a beautiful coastal setting, unique chance to learn about endurance riding from expert Lari Shea, recommended for experienced riders, includes day trips.
Mountain Trail Riding
Great Mountain Rides around the World
ALPS
Hotel Schlosswirt, Carinthia, Austria
Great value 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. Based at this elegant romantic hotel, you can enjoy a different panorama ride each day, riding to waterfalls and deep green mountain lakes and encountering some of amazing wildlife who inhabit the park. Fantastic opportunity for soem high Alpine riding at 3000m. Beautiful outdoor swimming pool, tennis, sauna and steamroom. The area is also excellent for hiking and mountain biking. More details...
The Interalpen Hotel - Tyrol, Austria
A 5* luxury spa hotel in a spectacular Alpine location; perfect for a holiday at any time of year. Rides out 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
Kroller: 4* Family hotel Austria is a great venue with Western-style riding into the mountains. Spa, pools and kids club. Lessons. A Western Riding Ranch In The Alps. The Kroller hotel is perched on a high pass in spectacular landscape, on the river bank of the Gerlos Bach. Daily trail rides into the mountain wilderness on Criollos, Quarter Horses and Paint Horses. Fully inclusive holidays for all the family, free childcare and children's club is available whilst you hit the trail.... Kids' paradise at The Pony Hoo - an all day kids' activity club (indoor and outdoor). Riding facilities include an excellent western riding school, The Kroller Academy, teaching both adults and children and run by Christian and Renate, who both speak excellent English. Western saloon bar with live music. Group and private riding lessons available and 'learn to ride' courses for complete beginners. The hotel is fully inclusive and facilities include a Western saloon bar with live music. Indoor and outdoor pools and 'Indian Spirits' spa.
Italy:
The 4* Post Tolderhof offers spectacular trails in the Italian Dolomites.
Alpine trail riding on Haflingers from the largest riding centre in Sud Tirol. 4* hotel with pool, excellent spa and fitness facilities. Daily rides out for experienced riders in the beautiful landscape of South Tyrol on sure-footed, sporty Haflingers. Half-day and full-day picnic rides up to the Alm plateaus.
The Lamm, 4* Alpine hotel in the stunning Munstertal of South Tyrol, Italy. Numerous trails from one hour to full day rides throughout the Summer and Winter on Haflingers ridden Western style for riders of all standards and ages. Specialist Mountain Active Fitness hotel with free programme of winter or summer sports (depending on season ski tours, snow shoe walks, mountain biking, hiking). Free hotel shuttle. Pool and spa.
USA California
Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort: 5* luxury ranch, delicious food, trail riding for all abilities, fantastic range of alternative activities.
learn to ride
The Riding Company welcomes beginners and we have hand-picked a selection of venues to make your introduction to riding one to remember. Learn a new skill on holiday!
We have some super hotels which specialise in teaching riding to complete beginners for both children and for adults. Best taken over a week, a beginner's riding course usually takes the form of lunge lessons in an enclosed area on ponies and horses especially selected for this purpose. Towards the end of the week, you should be confident enough to enjoy a ride out into the surrounding countryside or participate off the lunge in group lessons.
The following hotels have very highly qualified staff and excellent horses so you will feel in good hands.
Schloss Muhldorf, Austria Stay in a medieval castle with fantastic spa facilities to ease any aching muscles! Beginners course available in a week's stay with 6 lunge lessons, 2 private lessons and 2 theory sessions.
5* Supreme Hotel and 4* Avance Family Hotel, Austria
Why not start at the top and learn on a Lipizzaner! The Lipizzaner Riding Centre has fantastic beginners' courses including lunge lessons leading to a group ride and a horse handling course for those nervous around horses.
Hotel Strasserwirt, Austria A traditional family run 3* hotel with a friendly riding-focused atmosphere. 'Learn to Ride' beginners's programme includes 5 private lunge lessons and 5 group lessons with horse-care and theory instruction.
Post -Tolderhof, Italy Expert tuition is available at this 4* spa hotel in the Dolomites. Indoor and outdoor facilities, work towards a hack on a Haflinger through beautiful alpine scenery by the end of your stay.
Southern Spain, Tarifa: Beginner’s Riding Week for adults and children, with hotel and sand school right on the beach! Lovely sunset beach rides for beginners.
Castle Leslie in Ireland also offers exceptional training in a 5* setting.
Best for kids:
Atzinger Stubai hotel, Austria: 4* Family hotel with excellent riding centre offering a unique Riding Kindergarten for the smallest riders, horse-whispering and acrobatics courses for kids. Programmes for teens. Alpine resort setting. Pool, Spa. Hacks with a partner yard in the village.
Martinerhof, Austria : relaxed 4* Family hotel near to Salzburg with pool, spa, lessons in outdoor school and hacks on extensive forestry trails.Horse-whispering course specialist. Sleigh and carriage ride excursions. Great value for money.
Best for Western:
The 4* Lamm Alpine in Italy. Wonderful 4* Tyrolean venue to learn Western riding, with Haflingers. Initial lesson in the corral then walking rides out and building up your skills from there whilst exploring this beautiful mountain area on horseback. Also, check out the Kroller Family Hotel and Western Ranch, Austria. the Kroller Academy offering courses for both children and adults on Criollo and Quarter horses, year round. Perfect for families.
Natural Horsemanship at the family venues of the Atzinger and the Martinerhof in Austria.
Polo holidays
Polo in Spain
Sotogrande is a sophisticated private sporting estate, where you are likely to rub shoulders with the rich and famous on the stunning beaches or at the stylish bars and restaurants. It oozes the self-confidence that comes from the people that live there and the guests that visit it. Frankly, not everyone knows about it and that’s the way we find our guests would like to keep it. There is certainly nothing else like it in Europe. The estate is spread over 5000 acres and is beautifully landscaped with wide palm tree-lined boulevards and some of the most fabulous villas you are ever likely to see. Its sporting heritage is typified by the several golf courses including Valderrama. The Santa Maria Polo Club is a world-famous centre for polo with many a royal visitor and hosts many of the high handicap matches of the International Summer Polo Tournament. Horse riding and tennis are well catered for.
The Polo Academy, Sotogrande at the most Southern tip of Spain. Intensive courses of 3, 4 and 5 days in this glamourous coastal playground. Perfect for those new to polo but also for those experienced players wanting some private coaching and the opportunity to practice with some good players. All our courses are under the supervision of the only APPROVED Hurlingham Polo Association Instructor currently living and actively working in Spain. Due to the wonderful sunny climate, courses are run throughout the year.
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Tres Rosas, Sotogrande, Spain
We are also delighetd to offer holidays at Tres Rosas Polo Club in Sotogrande. Instructors from England, Argentina and Spain. Beginners to Advanced. Accommodation in lovely converted rustic houses. Pool and BBQ area.
Polo in 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.
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.
Polo in Dubai: new venue: 5* Desert Palm hotel Chic luxury emerges from a dramatic desert landscape. Lush green of the polo fields. Sunset chukkas from a rooftop terrace. Sunrise over the dunes. Contrast: the vast sandscapes of the Arabian landscape versus the lush surrounds of green in an extensive polo property. Desert Palm polo estate, showcasing four championship polo fields, a riding school, stables, rare birds, endless sunshine and vast green landscapes.
Italy Tuscany
The Castello di Santa Cristina is 17 century castle set deep in the Italian countryside between Tuscany and Umbria, just 1.5hrs from Rome. Abandoned Etruscan settlements, lakes formed in volcanic craters and medieval edifices adorn the landscape of this enchanting Italian landscape. The castle has two swimming pools, a tennis court and ample gardens and for those wishing to ride, a well run stables with professional instruction and miles upon miles of breath-taking trail riding awaiting you. Riding lessons are also offered for children and adults. Enjoy the hilltop views, blue skies and the scents of lavender as you travel through delightful country lanes and woodlands astride your horse. Medieval Castle tour, Brigands Trail, mid week (4 night) and weekend (3 night) breaks are offered. Delicious Tuscan cuisine. Swimming pool, tennis and mountain biking. More details
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...
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...
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...
Winter Riding & Skiing
Gallop in the snow in the mornings, swish down the slopes in the afternoon, take the reins of a sleigh!
Fantastic ski-ing in Austria and Italy. All sorts of playtime-in-the-snow possibilities for singles, groups and families, accommodation in traditional 3* chalet hotels to 5* pampering luxury. Most of our venues combine lots of different winter sports' activities, not just riding: snow trekking, ski touring, ice-climbing, ski-joering and free-riding (off piste skiing), even carriage driving in the snow. Join one of our popular Riding Comapny Ride & Ski chalet parties - get in touch for dates and venues.
Winter Riding at the 4* Lamm in the stunning Munstertal of South Tyrol, Italy.
Numerous snow trails from one hour to full day rides throughout the winter on Haflingers ridden Western style for riders of all standards and ages. Specialist Mountain Active 4* Fitness hotel with programme of ski tours, off-piste clinics for beginners to advanced, and free guided snow-shoe hikes. Also night cross-country skiing, moonlight and torchlight toboganning, sleigh rides. Extensive cross-country and family downhill resorts. Pool and spa.
The Martinerhof: relaxed 4* traditional family hotel just close to Salzburg, Austria, making this a great ride and ski venue for the whole family. Sleigh ride excursions (half day with panorama picnic stop), free hotel shuttle, pool and spa. Cross-country skiing taster session for all the family. Free shuttle to ski resort Dachstein West. Local ski run with ski school for kids. Kids club. Winter rides out on the coloured horses on extensive bridle paths. A popular destination for pre-Christmas/Christmas with visits to nearby markets and lots of traditional festive cheer. Horsewhispering courses for kids and adults. Great value for money
Winter Riding at the 3* Schlosswirt:
Alpine snow-trekking. Romantic 3* hotel in one of Austria's most beautiful national parks. Offers four dramatic winter snow rides on Haflinger ponies ridden western style. No lessons. Skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing and ice climbing at nearby Heiligenblut ski resort. Off-piste and ski touring. Moonlight rides and sleigh rides. Ski-ing, free-riding, ice-climbing, ski touring and snow trekking on horseback. Long weekend breaks.
Winter Riding at the 4* 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 in light indoor sandschool on warmbloods from own stud in dressage, jumping. Highly qualified riding instructors for beginners to advanced riders. Ski joerring, sleigh rides. Learn how to drive a carriage courses. Excellent skiing at Kronplatz, part of the huge Dolomiti Superski area (Alta Badia / Cortina / Val Gardena). 4*. Indoor pool & spa with dedicatd riders' massages and treatments.
Stylish 4* family hotel with riding kindergarten for 3-6 yr olds and lessons for all ages and abilities. Excellent skiing as the hotel is on the slopes of the Saalbach Hinterglemm ski resort, Austria. Indoor petting zoo, free kids club, indoor pools and spa. Sleigh rides. This manages to work brilliantly as a perfect place for kids (teens too) but also provides a stylish grown-up environment for adults with separate activities (whilst kids are being expertly supervised) and entertained, superb wine bar, cuisine and interiors designed in natural colours with an original flair.
The Atzinger Stubai 4* family hotel in the Tyrol, Austria: 4* Family hotel with excellent riding centre offering a Riding Kindergarten with free daily pony rides from 4yrs old, horse-whispering and acrobatics courses for kids. Pool, Spa. Excellent skiing at international ski resort the Stubai Glacier and at Schlick 2000.
Winter Riding at the 4* 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, own ski and toboggan slope and ski hire shop.
Winter Riding at the Strasserwirt, Austria:
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. Limited rides out available in winter. Sleigh rides. Skiing in the Pillerseetal for beginners and intermediates. Kids' ski school nearby. Ski bus to various other family ski resorts in the valley.
Winter Riding at the Interalpen Hotel, Austria:
5* luxury spa hotel in spectacular Alpine location. Daily rides out on haflingers and skiing in the Seefeld ski arena. Area known for cross-country skiing but downhill nearby (shuttle available). Sleigh rides.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 three stars by the Gault Millau gourmet guide.
Carriage driving in the snow,
Fiakerhof, Bavaria: traditional 3* Bavarian hotel in the heart of the famous ski town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Open all year for driving courses on the hotels Freiberger horses. Driving courses are offered for complete beginners with both theory and practice. Or take a course to advance your skills in a beautiful setting. Close to the Zugspitze ski arena you can combine learning to drive a horse drawn sleigh with skiing, Alpine or Cross country style. Even experienced carriage drivers will relish the opportunity to take the reins of the sleigh in the snow! Garmisch has so much to offer as Germany's principal mountain resort, the Olympic Ice stadium is here offering year round skating. There is an extra long ski season here due to the proximity of the Zugspitze glacier where guaranteed snow can be found from October onwards.