Posted on September 20, 2012
You don’t have to stray too far from home to experience the thrill of an equestrian adventure, Europe has many hidden gems that are just a short plane ride away. Here we have put together our favourite destinations for European Riding Holidays that you won’t forget…
Where? The Atlantic coast of Southern Spain plays host to an exhilarating and exciting horseback holiday combined with the perfect dose of relaxation. Situated on the edge of la Breña National Park, when riding at Los Alamos you will enjoy views of the Cape Trafalgar beaches and across the coast to Africa!
Why? Los Alamos offers some of the best beach riding in the world with well-trained horses and a relaxed atmosphere giving visitors the chance to escape areas of mass tourism and experience the relatively un-touched rural Spanish lifestyle.
Chateau Chazelles, France
Where? This beautiful ancient ‘chateau-fort’ is situated in the Haute Loire department of the Auvergne region on the Massif Central, which is home to medieval French towns, gastronomic cuisine and historic monuments, making this holiday ideal for experiencing the local area and enjoying some fantastic riding. Why? Ride well schooled, quality horses along tracks through wooded valleys, past Roman villages, onto open pastures and through gorges – the terrain is varied and gives travellers plenty to feast their eyes on.
Equus Sylvania, Romania
Where? Explore the Carpathian Mountains and Transylvania, the only place in Europe, west of Russia, where widespread populations of wolves, bears and lynx roam.
Why? Embark on daily adventures amongst the breathtaking and un-spoilt countryside, armed with saddlebag picnics and excitement for the day ahead. Riding fit, well-trained horses along gorges, through forests, across alpine meadows and into remote mountain settlements will give you a taste for the lifestyle of this beautiful country.
Iceland
Where? Experience magnificent views, from snow capped mountains and volcanoes, to lunar landscapes and waterfalls. Catering for a variety of riding standards, combine relaxing in northern Iceland with sightseeing, or challenge yourself on adrenalin fueled trail ride in the highlands.
Why? Iceland is home to the traditional Icelandic ‘tolting’ horses, which offer a unique experience that every rider should experience at least once in their life! Their willing attitude and strength provides riders with tremendous fun and the tolt is a fast gait that is comfortable and enables the horse to cover great distances.
Cilento Ride, Italy
Where? This delightful hilltop farm is situated in I Moresani, south of Naples and overlooks the beautiful Cilento National Park. This area on the coast of Italy, provides views out into the sea in a series of dramatic headlands and broad sweeping bays.
Why? With four itinerary choices there is a holiday to suit all equestrian enthusiasts, from the Campania Relaxed Ride, which integrates early morning rides with relaxed afternoons by the pool, to the Cilento Journey, which takes you through the breathtaking National Park. For something a little different, combine your riding holiday with cookery classes to learn the art of delicious Italian cuisine.
Contact us for more European Riding Holidays!
