Sometimes we all need a change of pace; some find this in water or extreme sports. For others, it’s winding down and walking. Find an in-between on horseback. Get out in the open and discover incredible scenery around the world from a difficult vantage point. We talk through some of the better-known riding destinations around the world and some of the ones you may not have considered. Where will you take a holiday on horseback? You’ll find ranches and lodges that offer treks for all experience levels.
Horse riding in Mallorca, Spain. Photo by: kltobias/Adobe Stock
Spain
Take the trails away from heavy tourist areas. Discover the rural and rugged scenery against a backdrop of the Mediterranean. Ride in the foothills of the lower Alpujarras mountains and the snow-capped Sierra Nevada, Spain’s highest mountain range. A lot of treks can avoid road work, taking to the trails and mule tracks. As horse riding is deeply ingrained in Spanish culture, and the climate is ideal, the country is popular for horse riding holidays. Book instruction weeks, mountain trail rides, coastal trails or beach rides. Discover the Pyrenees and Gredos Mountains from a different perspective.
Options include the Olive Branch in El Chorro and Caballo Blanco Horse Riding Centre.
Portugal
Here you’ll find opportunities for hacks through pretty rustic villages, pinewoods, sand dunes, fruit orchards, and the mud flats of the Ria Formosa. The varied terrain and great year-round climate draws horse riders throughout the year. Many consider the country the home of the Lusitano breed- a horse bred for its gentle nature and ability to be trained in classical dressage. They’re often used in the World Equestrian Games and the Olympics. Perfect for discovering this breed up close and personal, stay with the Lusitanos Riding Centre. The Gois Valley Riding Centre also have Lusitano horses.
USA
Visit Wyoming, the cowboy state. Ride ranch-style among rolling hills with mountain and woodland backdrops in the cattle country. Although Wyoming is America’s 9th largest state, it’s population is less than half a million people. This means lots of wide open space and few interruptions. Visit the Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton Park, and the Buffalo Bill Historic Centre. Great examples include Klondike Ranch and Bitter Root Ranch.
The Puszta Five in Hungary. Photo by: oroszgy/Adobe Stock
Hungary
Ride across the great plains of Hungary, the Puszta. Head out into the Hortobágy National Park which is used for cattle and sheep grazing. Take the opportunity to ride pure Kisberi horses- traditionally bred for Hussars, the cavalry officers, during the time of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy. As much of Hungary remains undeveloped, you’ll encounter lots of wide open spaces, perfect for a serene horse ride through picturesque regions. You’ll find ranches here are meticulously monitored by the Hungarian Horse Tourism Association. If you’re travelling with children, there’s lots of options to get them started with riding. Experience Hungarian wranglers, called csikós, ride five horses at once while standing on their backs. This manoeuvre is called the Puszta-five. Consider Homoki Lodge for various trails or Puszta Lodge.
Horse riding in South Africa. Photo by: pwollinga/Adobe Stock
South Africa
Be sure to explore the 20,000-acre Dinaka Reserve in the Waterberg region- the high concentration of wild game means guaranteed sightings. Spot the likes of white rhino, eland, impala, hippo, buffalo and giraffe. Watch from horseback in a less intrusive and more natural way than safari jeeps. Given the risk this can pose, some rides will only suit experienced riders with quick reflexes and good control. One example is Horizon Horseback.
France
The Dordogne area in France is renowned for its incredible fairy-tale landscape and what better way to explore than on horseback? Ride over gentle terrain on horses that are predominantly Anglo-Arabs and Lusitanos. Explore forests of chestnut and oak trees; weave through pretty hamlets. Head into the mountains on hot days to cool down or take evening rides along the Atlantic Coast. Check out Ferme de Fonluc or Dordogne Riding.
Horse riding in Iceland. Photo by: delkoo/Adobe Stock
Iceland
Although a barren and expansive country, the stunning scenery of Iceland includes glaciers, deserts, cold lava fields and plenty of unspoilt natural beauty. Ride tracks as herds of wild horses join you. Experience the fifth gait of Icelandic horses; the tölt. Visit Eldhestar (Volcano Horses) or Íshestar.
Discover a new perspective when you holiday on horseback
Have you ever taken a riding holiday before? Have you explored any of the countries above from horseback? Let us know in the comments below. To make getting to your accommodation easier, book your hire car- it’ll allow you the opportunity to explore place further afield when you arrive in your destination.
Written by Jessica Juby.
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