Riding Holidays for Beginners
If you are a total beginner when it comes to horse riding or you have a little experience and consider yourself a novice, it can often be quite daunting to find a horse riding holiday to suit your riding ability. There’s really no need to worry – there are many destinations which can offer tuition, hacking and even short trail rides for those who have spent little or no time in the saddle but who would like to take part. Although not many destinations will take a complete beginner on a lengthy trail ride, for reasons of safety and fairness to their horses, there are plenty of opportunities where you can get stuck in and even learn how to care for horses too. Several destinations even offer ‘beginner programmes’ where you can learn all the basics of riding in a short space of time, coming home with a sense of real accomplishment and some wonderful horseback memories.
Beginner riders can often be nervous (understandably so!) but we work with many instructors who have the experience and patience to give you riding confidence. The main piece of advice we can give is to follow instruction and take note of the advice given to you. This will ensure that you have an enjoyable trip and improve your riding as much as possible. We are always delighted when beginners and novices book a riding holiday as it’s so satisfying to share our love of riding with others. When you have more experience then you can use your Far and Ride loyalty discount on another more adventurous riding experience!
A Taste of Sicily, Sicily
This is a small business run by a welcoming host who has a great knowledge and love of this beautiful island. This one week package caters for riders who wish to enjoy exploring the beautiful Sicilian hills on horseback, combining their stay with some sightseeing and wining and dining at local restaurants. Riders are expected to be able to walk, trot and canter although the ride will be very much tailor made to suit your experience.
Current special offers:
Early booking offers at this fantastic farmhouse ride in Sicily, valid until the 30th April 2020;
Solo traveller: - 175 EUR discount
2 travelling together: - 250 EUR discount per person
* Offer only valid for new bookings confirmed with a deposit payment by the 30th April 2020.
Algarve Coast and Tuition, Portugal
This equestrian centre, one of the Algarve’s most well-known and prestigious, is situated in an upmarket holiday area. It is an ideal location for enjoyable riding, with an abundance of sandy tracks, open landscape full of wildflowers and herbs as well as being close to golden beaches and a nature reserve. The prefect destination for single travellers, as there is no additional supplement for single room use, as well as families, as it offers the unique chance to meet and interact with other children.
The climate means riding is possible throughout the year as, even in winter, the sun is virtually always shining. Warm evenings provide the opportunity for enjoying wonderful sunsets from horseback and the unique experience of riding under a full moon.
The climate means riding is possible throughout the year as, even in winter, the sun is virtually always shining. Warm evenings provide the opportunity for enjoying wonderful sunsets from horseback and the unique experience of riding under a full moon.
Almeria, Spain
This riding base near to Almeria can offer riding along the coast and beach. In this wonderful countryside we can offer you some first class horseriding. Programmes here can be tailor made so do not hesitate to ask if you would like something a little bit different to those listed here. Your host, Manolo is a skilled horseman whilst remaining a kind, caring and attentive host. His love of people, horses and nature is evident in his holidays and he describes horses as "our companions through life".
Current special offers:
Give yourself something to look forward to and ride in the sun at this wonderful destination in southern Spain. Your guide, Manolo is one of the most experienced in the business and is a great host.
We are happy to offer a 10% discounts on all bookings in 2020.
Or, confirm your booking for 2021 and pay 2020 rates as well as receiving a £50 per person discount.
Secure your place with a deposit payment before the end of May to take advantage of these special offers!
Amazon Delta, Brazil
The Amazon is a huge place, full of rich experiences and the locals say that it would take many lifetimes to experience it all. Discover this unique environment on the back of the local Marajoara horses. Live the life of the vaqueros (cowboys) and ride through pastures where water buffalo graze as well as discovering the native wildlife and birdlife of this biodiverse area.
Andalucia Trails, Spain
This unique trekking centre centre, based in the heart of Andalucia, offers 2-8 day treks and trail rides for families, friends and singles, and from the beginner to the experienced rider.
From this base you will explore a beautiful part of Spain, riding free from traffic and walkers, following secret trails in the wonderful countryside. Your hosts' knowledge of the local terrain means that they know all the best trails to suit all abilities or rider. You will ride in remote locations.
From this base you will explore a beautiful part of Spain, riding free from traffic and walkers, following secret trails in the wonderful countryside. Your hosts' knowledge of the local terrain means that they know all the best trails to suit all abilities or rider. You will ride in remote locations.
Current special offers:
Give yourself something to look forward to!
Confirm your booking for 2021 with a deposit payment before the end of May and pay 2020 rates as well as receiving a GB£50 per person discount!
Ant's Nest and Ant's Hill, South Africa
These two unique bush homes, Ant's Nest and Ant's Hill, are located on their own private game reserve in the beautiful and diverse Waterberg region of South Africa. They offer some of the most exciting game viewing and horseback riding in Africa and situated at an altitude of 4500 feet above sea level, this wonderful region offers a temperate climate and can be visited all year round. Due to the varying topography and ecology across the reserve, the bush is teeming with an incredible variety of game species from rhino and buffalo to leggy giraffe, rare sable antelope, herds of eland, zebra, wildebeest, big spiral horned kudu to the fleet footed oryx just to mention but a few. There are 300 recorded bird species in the area to add to the exquisite variety of all forms of wildlife that the reserves support.
Arizona Hacienda Ranch, USA
The 300 year old ranch is one of the last great haciendas in America. It was established as a guest ranch in 1924, and its history has been lovingly preserved in the beautiful buildings that rest comfortably in the rolling pastures of the high Sonoran Desert.
The ranch boasts more than 320 day of sunshine a year and is just one hour from Tucson, ideally situated at the base of the sacred Baboquivari mountains and bordering the Tohono O'odham Indian Nation. The ranch offers a range of activities, including beautiful trail rides for all abilities, cattle work, sport shooting or simply relaxing.
The ranch boasts more than 320 day of sunshine a year and is just one hour from Tucson, ideally situated at the base of the sacred Baboquivari mountains and bordering the Tohono O'odham Indian Nation. The ranch offers a range of activities, including beautiful trail rides for all abilities, cattle work, sport shooting or simply relaxing.
Arizona Tombstone, USA
Take a step back in history and ride trails made famous by Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday and the outlaw Curly Bill Brocius. Stay in a replica 1880's main street with individually styled rooms representing the store fronts of Tombstone. There are slow walking rides and faster loping rides on offer through the desert landscapes in the heart of Cochise County.
Azores - Faial Island Trails, Azores
This welcoming quinta is based on the island of Faial in the Azores and offers a choice of horseback trails as well as a programme for beginners. Guests are accommodated in comfortable guesthouses each night, sampling local Azorean cuisine and riding a beautiful Lusitano or crossbreed around the island.
Balkan Mountains, Bulgaria
Situated on the northern side of the Balkan Mountain Range in Bulgaria, on the outskirts of the mountain village of Apriltsi, lies this fantastic riding centre which offers a range of beautiful trail rides and based programmes. Here in the heart of Bulgaria the riding is sensational - far away from traffic, work and everyday life, you can ride right into the mountains to find the freshest air and the cleanest rivers. Nature is everything here and the wildlife adds to the sense of adventure with the smell of the roses and lavendulas, the taste of the cool, white wine made from the local grapes, the real yoghurt and the sun-ripened tomatoes.
Bitterroot Ranch (Wyoming), USA
A Wyoming ranch with some of the best and most diverse horse riding in North America. Located in a remote valley, this ranch offers tuition with certified instructors, a cross country course, team sorting, herding cows, cattle drives, roundups, pack trips and trail rides. Excellent cuisine and outstanding fishing opportunities, along with their Arabian horse breeding programme, make this an exceptional ranch to visit.
Borana, Kenya
Borana Lodge is a family-run and owned destination which plays a special part in the conservation of Kenyan wildlife. Borana Conservancy lies at the foot of Mt Kenya and is a haven for wildlife, considered to be Kenya’s newest and most successful rhino sanctuary - the private conservancy covers 32,000 acres and is home to more than 25 Black Rhino, a population which has grown since the species was introduced here in 2013. The conservancy is dedicated to the sustainable conservation of land and wildlife.
British Columbia Ranch, Canada
This guest and cattle ranch offers guests the ultimate outdoor adventure holiday in the Canadian Rocky Mountains of British Columbia. Guests are offered a complete range of horse back riding as well as hiking, river rafting, mountain biking and tennis. The ranch is family owned and operated and caters to the needs of the most discerning guests. Its world class riding programme makes this ranch outstanding with options available to suit every rider. No other location in the world offers such a superb combination of great horses, beautiful riding terrain and the seasoned experience of world class horsemen.
Carpathian Mountain Trails, Romania
This destination offers pack trips through the Eastern Carpathian Mountains of Romania exploring Székely Land, a historic area lying within Transylvania. The region offers beautiful, varied scenery ranging from high mountains to rolling hills, wild forests and open meadows. The land is primarily unfenced as shepherds still move their flocks through the countryside like in times gone by.
Catalan Pyrenees, Spain
The riding centre here offers you trails in the Catalan Pyrenees and in the Natural Parks of Garraf which is 30 kms south west of Barcelona. The riding centre was established in 1992 by a farming family who still take care of livestock. The owner Xavier Pastoret has been a horse riding guide for 30 years and, together with his wife Montse and son Xavier junior, runs three equestrian centres in the area.
Catalonia, Spain
Ride out through the beautiful Catalonia countryside or along the Mediterranean coast - this destination offers a selection of fantastic riding holiday programmes. The area is full of spectacular towns and villages, surprisingly untouched by the hands of time, and the architecture still reflects the glory of days gone by. Catalonia is a wild and unspoilt wilderness just waiting to be discovered on horseback.
Current special offers:
10% discount on the Mountain and Sea Trail between the 3rd-10th May.
Early booking discount:
Confirm your booking for 2021 before the 31st of October and pay 2020 rates!
Celtic Trails, Ireland
A riding destination to bring you a touch of the true Irish spirit, taking you riding on Celtic trails through historic parts of the Irish countryside and beautiful nature. Guests can take part in fascinating trail rides or perhaps enjoy a more relaxed based stay at the 300 year old farmhouse, benefitting from beautiful hacking in the nearby woodlands and across farmland. More novice riders are welcome to some basic tuition and to explore the land on a trusty Irish horse.
Coastal Beaches and Vineyards, Uruguay
These horseback rides explore the area around Punta del Este on the eastern coast of Uruguay - the vibrant and fashionable La Barra, and the tranquil and relaxed Jose Ignacio. The beaches themselves invite you to canter, whilst tranquil lagoons offer opportunities to swim the horses and cool off hot riders. Inland there are vineyards aplenty and you can ride through the vines and olive groves. Large, private Estancia have trails running across them which means you can ride for miles without hardly seeing a soul.
Coffee Highlands, Brazil
Riding in the coffee highlands takes you through the coffee-growing regions northeast of Sao Paulo, visiting some of the great historical plantation homes and passing through surprisingly well-preserved natural landscapes. This diversified terrain takes you from plains to mountains, up and down escarpments and onto plateaus punctuated with springs and waterfalls. Since the mid 19th century some of the finest coffee produced in Brazil has come from this region which boasts a perfect combination of altitude (800-1,300 metres) and climate (dry winters and wet summers) as well as fertile, well-drained soil.
Colorado Creek Ranch, USA
This 600-acre family guest ranch, nestled in its own private mountain valley, has been offering authentic western holidays for more than 70 years. With a herd of over 100 homebred and raised horses and a host of ranch facilities, all within walking distance from each other, this is the ideal ranch for a true western adventure. The ranch is designed to suit adults and children alike and is recognised as an unforgettable family hotspot where guests of any age and any ability can come for a dream ranch vacation.
Colours of Mexico, Mexico
This beautiful Mexican ranch is a haven for all levels of rider and non-riders alike, providing guests with a taste of Mexican vibrancy, fantastic cuisine, superb facilities and a stable of responsive trail horses. The majority of the staff are Mexican, including most of the wranglers, but the ranch itself is owned by an experienced Swiss lady who brings a warmth and enthusiasm which makes the destination a delight for guests from all over. The ranch is great for single travellers looking to make friends, couples wanting a romantic getaway, families or even large groups of friends or colleagues. Single lady travellers will also be made to feel welcome and secure here, just one of the reasons why many guests look to return.
Doñana Dressage & Trails, Spain
In this glorious setting Jose Manuel has realised his dreams and is now offering some wonderful programmes at his new equestrian centre which is located on the outskirts of El Rocio. This is a town like no other and perfectly suited to horse riders and not cars! The town is close to the coast and only an hour from Seville. The roads here are sand and you will see horses and riders making the most of the sandy open roads. Everywhere here has been made easy for the horse riders including bars with tables to put your glass when you are sitting on your horse enjoying your drink. There are horses everywhere!
El Venado Polo School, Argentina
This beautiful working estancia is just two hours from the centre of Buenos Aires and is the perfect place to learn or perfect your polo skills with real professionals. You can experience authentic Argentina here, focusing your stay around polo but still taking time to enjoy some trail rides, meet the cattle and relax when not in the saddle. Polo lessons are provided in English and the estancia is home to around 200 polo ponies with mounts for all standard of player. No previous riding experience is needed, they welcome all levels.
Essaouira, Morocco
Discover the hills, valleys and coastal villages around the fishing port of Essaouira on horseback. This camping trail allows you to ride through argan forests, sand dunes and along the glorious beaches on kind but tough Berber stallions.
Estancia La Rosita (Corrientes), Argentina
This welcoming estancia is the ideal base for a horse riding holiday in Argentina. Your hosts are passionate about both their country and their horses and the overwhelming feeling from guests is that they are made to feel like part of the family. The Argentine countryside gives way to wonderful riding opportunities and you are welcome to explore the scenery on horseback, work the cattle, try your hand at polo and to live the life of these true countrymen.
Estancia Los Potreros, Argentina
Estancia Los Potreros is a renowned riding holiday destination, set in the Cordoba hills in the middle of Argentina. It lies off the beaten track in the heart of this beautiful region and dates from 1574 when it bred mules to be used in the silver mines of Peru. It has been owned by the same Anglo Argentine family for four generations and nowadays is an idyllic getaway for riders and those who enjoy being close to nature. This is a year round destination known for the spectacular riding opportunities that it offers, including based riding, polo and cattle work. The riding herd numbers over 80 so there is a fresh horse to match every rider, and they are kept fresh and willing by taking part in a variety of work and living in a natural herd environment.
Finnhorse Adventures, Finland
Trail riding adventures on rare Finnhorses, the native horse of Finland. These calm, sturdy little horses have played an important part in their country's history and their numbers are now sadly in decline. Your hostess' dream was to breed them and use them for trail riding... and here they are!
Galiny Palace, Poland
This welcoming country estate features a stud farm offering riding lessons, hacking and carriage driving. There is a host of non-riding activities also available such as fishing, cycling, hiking and swimming, plus the estate features various sports courts. You can choose whether to stay in the Palace or in the Grange!
Current special offers:
10% discount on weekend and week stays at Galiny for March 2020, not including jumping programmes.
Georgia Ranch, USA
A beautiful year-round guest ranch and horse farm conveniently nestled in Central Georgia's Historic Heartland. With more than 150 quality Paint and Quarter Horses, the ranch is best known for its exceptional horse riding programme, unguided riding opportunities and peaceful setting. The ranch offers an all-inclusive riding package during which you can experience the delightful accommodation, exceptional cuisine and southern hospitality.
Geres Wolf and Wild Horse Trails, Portugal
Horseback riding through the territory of the Iberian Wolf and the wild Garrano horse. Your hosts guide you on rides into the Peneda-Geres National Park where you can explore the mountainous region and search for tracks of the wolves and wild horses that still live there. These holidays are a chance to combine being in a peaceful, natural environment with good horse riding and a fascinating insight into the lives of the wolves and Garranos.
Great South Ranch, Morocco
This Moroccan ranch is owned by two French ladies, and is situated between the ocean and mountains. This destination offers trail riding and basic tuition on their beautiful Arab-Barbs and guests can enjoy riding on the beach and along mountain trails. The accommodation is bright and comfortable and stays here are accompanied by traditional Moroccan meals and music. Riding here is very good value.
Current special offers:
€100 EUR per person discount on week stays at the ranch for these dates:
- 29th February - 14th March 2020
- 27th June - 25th July
- 22 - 29 August
Greek Island Escape, Greece
Riding out of a small, authentic, family run riding stables in the heart of the island town of Molyvos, on the Northern coast of the Island of Lesvos. You will be offered the unique opportunity to explore the surroundings of Molyvos, on horseback. You will ride on wide sandy beaches and discover breathtaking views, from the top of steep, rocky mountains. This island has so much to offer you and it is just waiting to be discovered.
Current special offers:
10% discount on stays in the period 1st May - 2nd June 2020.
In this period you will be accommodated at the beautiful beachfront Bella Vista 4* Hotel in Molyvos, on an all-inclusive basis.
Hacienda Zuleta, Ecuador
Riding at this hacienda has been a family tradition for over one hundred years and today reflects this equestrian affinity by boasting one of the most exclusive stables in Ecuador. Dating from the late XVI century, the hacienda lies in the spectacular Andean mountain range of Ecuador at 9,600 feet (2,800 meters) above the sea level, and only two hours north of Quito, the capital of Ecuador. This is a colonial working farm of 4,000 acres (2,000 hectares) that is family owned. It was chosen as one of the world’s “Top Ten Finds” by Outside magazine.
Horizon Horseback Adventures and Safaris, South Africa
Horizon Horseback offers riding safaris in the Waterberg area of northern South Africa. Just three hours north of Johannesburg, this destination has a choice for everyone from honeymoon couples to adventurous families, single riders to groups of friends (non-riders also welcome). Guests can opt for a mobile safari or an adventure based out of the historic family property, set in a private game reserve alongside a beautiful lake with hippo and surrounding plains game. The choices of riding are almost endless and include outrides through the game reserve, swimming with the horses in the lake, western games, jumping, cross country or even learning to play polocrosse.
Hualapai Ranch (Stagecoach Trails), USA
This is a comfortable ranch, set in tens of thousands of acres, which has a riding programme second to none. You are always offered a gentle slow walking ride or an exciting fast trotting/loping ride.
The novice rider can enjoy a slow scenic ride and the experienced rider is offered challenging mountain rides, and fast paced loping rides through sandy washes. Disabled riders are able to enjoy this wonderful ranch experience.
The novice rider can enjoy a slow scenic ride and the experienced rider is offered challenging mountain rides, and fast paced loping rides through sandy washes. Disabled riders are able to enjoy this wonderful ranch experience.
Idaho Western Pleasure Ranch, USA
This 75 year old family ranch has been welcoming guests since 1991. The ranch breed their own horses and there are horses for complete beginners as well as responsive and athletic horses for experienced riders. Trail rides venture through open meadows, quiet forests and along slow moving creeks. Try your hand at cattle sorting, cattle drives or arena games - or take a lesson in the arena. The month of September is restricted to Adults only, whilst the months of July and August offer special Children's Packages. This ranch really does offer options for everyone.
Il Paretaio, Italy
A Tuscan country house offering a high standard of riding tuition (especially classical dressage) and hacking in the beautiful surrounding countryside. The rooms are warm and inviting, decorated in a traditional Italian style, and guests enjoy four course Tuscan dinners accompanied by quality Chianti wine. Ride a few hours each day and then relax by the pool, admiring the panoramic views of the surrounding hills and fields. The perfect Italian escape!
Lagoa do Peixe National Park, Brazil
Lagoa do Peixe national park is a tempting mix of salt marshes, lagoons, sand dunes and the ocean. A haven for migrating birds, this area is best explored on horseback and the majestic Lusitano horse is the perfect companion. Bird watchers and wildlife supporters will enjoy watching the migrating birds and whales from horseback, whilst the sandy tracks and beaches are also perfect terrain for canters for those riders with experience. Everyone can ride here though and there are horses for all abilities.
Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch, Croatia
Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch is an award-winning, authentic guest ranch situated inside the UNESCO Velebit Mountain Biosphere Reserve in Croatia. This friendly ranch and "restorative retreat" is small and privately owned, open all year to guests from around the world and with a focus on unique horsemanship alongside a high level of comfort and service. They offer a range of daily activities to suit all the family and also have a special riding programme available once a year, the 'Ultimate Cowboy Adventure', for those who want to explore this beautiful region from the saddle in more depth. The ranch is run with a focus on sustainable development and in accordance with their own concept known as CIDER: Community, Integrity, Development, Evolution and Responsibility.
Lot Valley, France
This destination is the ideal opportunity to enjoy some exciting riding in the beautiful Averyonese countryside, whilst also relaxing when out of the saddle. The charming surroundings offer both excellent riding terrain and an all round beautiful setting which different levels of rider can explore. The countryside here allows for trekking through enchanting French villages and unspoilt woodlands with an abundance of fascinating wildlife such as deer, wild boar, red squirrel, hares, buzzards and kites. There are rivers and gorges leading down to open valleys where riders can canter over the rolling landscapes.
Lusitano Dressage, Portugal
This small-scale riding stables is just 30-40 mins drive from Lisbon, situated in an area where you can "get lost in time" and feel the rhythm of a typical old Portuguese village surrounded by vineyards, gorgeous landscapes and mountain views. Joao and Susana welcome guests for tuition on their spectacular Lusitano horses. There is a 15x40m indoor arena and a huge outdoor arena alongside paddocks and stables for their 15 horses. The stables are within easy walking distance of the Campo Real Hotel where you will stay - you have the possibility to use their modern facilities including swimming pools and spa when not in the saddle.
Luxury Finca (La Donaira), Spain
This luxurious and exclusive eco-farm, hidden in a conservation area about 25kms from the small town of Ronda, offers the combination of spectacular dressage lessons on their home-bred horses with extremely high levels of accommodation. The farm is 100% organic and features a spa and spring water pool as well as offering high standards of dressage.
Mallorca Tuition & Trails, Mallorca
This farm, situated in the idyllic Levante hills of Mallorca, is dedicated to riding and offers tuition and trail rides as well as breeding some impressive Spanish horses. Horse lovers can enjoy the peaceful Mallorcan countryside or can do some more advanced dressage with the stunning stallions bred here. There are traditional style bedrooms, a welcoming restaurant, a swimming pool and terrace for guests to enjoy after a fabulous day spent in the saddle.
Monte Velho Equo Resort, Portugal
A Lusitano stud farm offering luxurious accommodation and wonderful riding opportunities in the Alentejo region of Portugal. Guests can enjoy top class dressage tuition or rides out into the countryside, enjoying the charming grounds of the farm, before relaxing by the pool or just enjoying the sunshine. Bikes and canoes are also available for those who like to explore!
Montes de Oro Hacienda, Costa Rica
Be enchanted by the golden beaches and tropical rainforests of Costa Rica from this new hacienda in the Punta Arenas area of the country, just west of the capital, San Jose. The hacienda is located on Montes de Oro (Mountain of Gold), where gold was once found. Trails head out into the rainforests where you can look out for spectacular wildlife and glorious flora, such as orchids. Or you may wish to try your hand at cattle work, helping your guides to separate cattle.
Mozambique Horse Safaris, Mozambique
This spectacular Mozambique riding destination offers what is arguably the best beach riding in the world. There are day trails and safaris along the beautiful Vilankulo coast and on Benguerra Island with beach resort accommodation. The horses here are well schooled, well loved and are the hosts' greatest and most treasured assets.
Orkhon Valley Trails, Mongolia
The Orkhon Valley is an extensive area of pasture land which stretches c. 80km in length and 15km in width between the banks of the Orkhon river. With your nomadic Mongolian guides you can discover this beautiful region on horseback. This is the Mongolia of your dreams with the steppes stretching out in front of you and the yurts and herds dotted all around. Riding in Mongolia is always an adventure and a cultural experience, but it is your choice as to how rustic you wish to be.
Pantanal Experience, Brazil
The Pantanal is the largest continuous wetland in the world and is a World Heritage Site. Over a period of more than 200yrs of occupation by farmers, the Pantanal's biodiversity and landscape have remained virtually unchanged. In these many habitats there is a rich flora and exuberant fauna which delights visitors. Those who get the chance to visit this hidden tropical paradise on horseback and experience it's people, wildlife and vegetation, will view the world through different eyes.
Portugal Equestrian, Portugal
Portugal Equestrian is a professional equestrian set-up offering top quality training in show jumping, dressage and working equitation. Started by two brothers, Bruno and Joao, Portugal Equestrian has grown to comprise two riding centres, housing over 90 horses, and an international team of instructors, but has maintained its friendly, personal and welcoming feel. The stables are located outside the picturesque town of Esposende in the north-west of Portugal, meaning that guests have access to both the incredible riding facilities but also the beautiful beaches of the Atlantic coastline.
Ride Zimbabwe (Varden Safaris), Zimbabwe
Join James and Janine Varden for a fascinating horse riding safari in the Matabeleland region of Zimbabwe. From their new base, the Vardens are offering rides into the beautiful Hwange National Park and the game-rich Cawston Wildlife Conservancy Area in the Nyamandhlovu area.
Roop Niwas Kothi Hotel, India
This hotel is home to one of the biggest stud farms for Marwari horses in India. It has been in the family for decades and offers regular stationary rides, riding lessons and longer safaris (see our 'Tours of the Raj' ride page). The tranquility and peace of the lavish hotel grounds are a delight for guests who wish to experience nature, relaxation and some excellent horse riding on these beautiful Indian horses with their curly touching ears.
Sea & Pine Forest, Sardinia
A fantastic and diverse resort with something to offer everyone. Imagine riding in an immense pinewood, on the dunes that border the beach and the sea and looking up to admire the flight of rose flamingo. Horse riding can be tailored for your needs. There are lessons for beginners and more advanced tuition if required. You can enjoy gallops along the beach and explore the pine forests on horseback.
It is possible to book a three or four day trek when you leave your horse and return to the hotel each night.
It is possible to book a three or four day trek when you leave your horse and return to the hotel each night.
Temples, Tombs and Beaches, Egypt
Your adventures will take you on a trip through Gezira village to the Nile shore. Pleasure in Luxor comes not only from riding beautiful horses, but also through the opportunity to see true Arabian village life and the splendid nature. There is a wealth of riding options from cantering along the Nile watching buffalo graze along its lush green banks, travelling through the villages on horseback, galloping along the banana and sugar cane fields or visiting the Temples on horseback.
Thamalakane River Ride (Ride Botswana), Botswana
This wonderful lodge-based safari is an ideal short break, suitable for riders of all levels including families with children. After years of drought the flood waters of the Okavango Delta have spilled over into the land, causing the Thamalakane River to flow and creating a riding paradise. Tall woodlands line the riverbanks providing homes for a variety of incredible bird species and wildlife.
Tuscany Castle, Italy
Located one and a half hours from Rome, this splendid 17th-century castle has been the property of the noble Caterini family for generations. The family has breathed new life into it by restoring the cottages and farmhouse once used by the farmers. Those keen on horse riding will be delighted with the certified equestrian centre as the quality of the horses, the trails and the English speaking staff will ensure that your stay here is memorable.
Vale de Ferreiros, Portugal
This is a small family owned equestrian centre with horses and instructors of the highest class. Having been a venue for national and international competition for the last few years, It has now opened its doors to riders from all over the world. Offering lessons in both dressage and showjumping (or a combination of both), with well-schooled horses and knowledgeable instructors, as we all as more relaxed trail rides for those who wish to enjoy the countryside and ride in the sun. The picturesque town of Golega is located just 45 minutes drive from the centre and is the site for the annual Lusitano horse fair - a true celebration of the breed Portugal has become so famous for.
Current special offers:
Escape to the sun with a fabulous stay in Portugal. Enjoy riding well-schooled Lusitano horses for dressage and athletic warmbloods for jump training before relaxing with a quiet country ride or a delicious glass of wine by the pool!
We are happy to offer a 10% discounts on all new bookings in 2020.
Or, confirm your booking for 2021 and pay 2020 rates as well as receiving a £50 per person discount.
Secure your place with a deposit payment before the end of May to take advantage of these special offers!
Western Adventures in Tuscany, Italy
This is a welcoming, friendly destination which specialises in western riding in a beautiful Tuscan setting. There are riding programmes here to suit all levels of rider and even children, with a wide range of horses to ensure that everyone can feel safe but have fun at the same time. Based holidays, point to point trails and tuition courses are all available and guests are given a warm welcome with comfortable accommodation and delicious local cuisine.
Western Ranch (El Bronco), Hungary
This welcoming ranch is situated in the south of Hungary, approximately 80km from Budapest, and offers western riding tuition and trail rides. The ranch breed their own Quarter Horses, Appaloosas and local Hungarian breeds which are successful in the western shows and the instructors are experienced horsemen who look forward to sharing their unique knowledge with the guests. The ranch is situated in Kiskunsagi National Park where the sandy ground is ideal for long gallops and relaxing trail rides, whilst carriage driving tours and lessons are also a superb option.
White Stallion Ranch, USA
The ranch, adjacent to the Saguaro National Park, Arizona, is set in nearly five square miles of lush desert. Longhorn cattle come in for water every day but with the timeless aura of a working western cattle ranch, you also have the benefits and comforts associated with a top quality destination.
Whether horseback riding is new to you or you are an experienced rider, the varied riding programme will fit your needs. There are slow scenic rides through the Saguaro cactus, to brisk fast rides and exciting trail rides over the mountains. There is something for everyone here.
Whether horseback riding is new to you or you are an experienced rider, the varied riding programme will fit your needs. There are slow scenic rides through the Saguaro cactus, to brisk fast rides and exciting trail rides over the mountains. There is something for everyone here.
Wyoming Lodge and Working Guest Ranch, USA
This authentic working dude ranch combines a touch of luxury with fantastic horse riding, horsemanship and cattle working opportunities. Situated in Shell Valley, Wyoming, the ranch focuses primarily on horse riding and provides excellent horses for all levels of rider - those just starting out are treated with patience and given the help of professional trainers, whilst the seasoned rider will be matched to a responsive mount and can enjoy the company of experienced guides and talented cowboys. Approximately 250,000 acres provide spectacular scenery for trail rides whilst the 1200 head of Black Angus cattle mean that there is plenty of cattle work and drives to be done. This is genuine cattle work required to keep the ranch in operation!
Matching Holidays
ArgentinaEl Venado Polo School
Estancia La Rosita (Corrientes)
Estancia Los Potreros
AzoresAzores - Faial Island Trails
BotswanaThamalakane River Ride (Ride Botswana)
BrazilAmazon Delta
Coffee Highlands
Lagoa do Peixe National Park
Pantanal Experience
BulgariaBalkan Mountains
CanadaBritish Columbia Ranch
Costa RicaMontes de Oro Hacienda
CroatiaLinden Tree Retreat & Ranch
EcuadorHacienda Zuleta
EgyptTemples, Tombs and Beaches
FinlandFinnhorse Adventures
FranceLot Valley
GreeceGreek Island Escape
HungaryWestern Ranch (El Bronco)
IndiaRoop Niwas Kothi Hotel
IrelandCeltic Trails
ItalyIl Paretaio
Tuscany Castle
Western Adventures in Tuscany
KenyaBorana
MallorcaMallorca Tuition & Trails
MexicoColours of Mexico
Mongolia Orkhon Valley Trails
MoroccoEssaouira
Great South Ranch
MozambiqueMozambique Horse Safaris
PolandGaliny Palace
PortugalAlgarve Coast and Tuition
Geres Wolf and Wild Horse Trails
Lusitano Dressage
Monte Velho Equo Resort
Portugal Equestrian
Vale de Ferreiros
RomaniaCarpathian Mountain Trails
SardiniaSea & Pine Forest
SicilyA Taste of Sicily
South AfricaAnt's Nest and Ant's Hill
Horizon Horseback Adventures and Safaris
SpainAlmeria
Andalucia Trails
Catalan Pyrenees
Catalonia
Doñana Dressage & Trails
Luxury Finca (La Donaira)
USAArizona Hacienda Ranch
Arizona Tombstone
Bitterroot Ranch (Wyoming)
Colorado Creek Ranch
Georgia Ranch
Hualapai Ranch (Stagecoach Trails)
Idaho Western Pleasure Ranch
White Stallion Ranch
Wyoming Lodge and Working Guest Ranch
UruguayCoastal Beaches and Vineyards
ZimbabweRide Zimbabwe (Varden Safaris)
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