Posted on March 2, 2022
In this ‘Spotlight On’ series of blogs, we’ll focus on a single riding destination and give you the inside scoop on why we think this particular adventure should be on your wish list.
First up is the Wild Coast, in South Africa.
The Wild Coast has the most spectacular beach riding in the world
Widely considered to be ‘the best kept secret in South Africa’, the Wild Coast lies in the province of the Eastern Cape.
This dramatic stretch of coastline runs from the Mtamvuna River in the north, to the Great Kei River in the south.
The best way to experience this area’s spectacular beaches and coastline is on horseback
Riding holidays on the Wild Coast are suitable for intermediate riders and above. There are a range of options:
The Kei River Mini Trail is an ideal choice for those who’d like to explore the coast, but don’t want too many hours in the saddle or prefer not to move on every night.
There’s time to ride and relax on the four night Kei River Mini Trail
The week-long Kei River Trail and the Qolora Trail both cover slightly longer distances, so are better suited to regular riders. You need to be confident in the saddle, so as to safely enjoy the riding on the open beaches and grassy tracks.
Heading for a picnic lunch by the waterfall
The most challenging is the Wild Coast Adventure Trail. On this route, you’ll enjoy unparalleled beach riding as you make your way from Kei Mouth into the southern region of the Wild Coast, all the way up to the Kob Inn. This one is only for fit, experienced riders as there are long distances to cover and many rivers crossings.
Choose the Wild Coast Adventure Trail if you’re an experienced rider who enjoys a burst of speed
This part of South Africa is well off the typical tourist routes, making it the ideal riding destination. The deserted beaches are beautiful, but the scenery is stunning too. You’ll ride over rolling hills, through pristine forest and along the rugged coastline, seeing something of rural Xhosa life on the way.
Could this be the perfect riding destination?
If you look out to sea during the season, you might spot dolphins and whales, as well as many sea birds.
Ride along the beach with the surf crashing beside you – what a thrill!
You’ll ride one of Julie-Anne’s much-loved horses – a selection of homebred, handpicked Boerperd, Percheron and Anglo-Arabs. They are easy to ride and control, yet forward-going, resposive and really enjoy their work.
The horses are a real highlight
The good news is that you can ride on the Wild Coast all year round.
Riding is possible here throughout the year
In summer (December to March), the weather can be hot, with some humidity present until March. The Autumn and Winter months (April to August) generally bring great riding weather, with warm days and blue skies. In Spring (September to November), everything is green and fresh and the temperature is pleasant for riding.
No matter when you can travel, the Wild Coast is waiting
Call us on +44 (0) 1299 272 997 or email rides@inthesaddle.com for more information.
Many thanks to In The Saddle client Tony for sharing his wonderful images of the Wild Coast with us for this feature. Tony has ridden on the Wild Coast five times and the pictures above are just some of the lovely photographs he has taken over his many visits.
