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Overview

Martine and her family set up their wonderful ranch with the goal of creating a peaceful place to share with their horses and guests. At the stables, everything revolves around the horse's welfare, building respect and connection between human and animal. The horses live as socially as possible…

Highlights

  • Friendly, family-run ranch
  • Beautiful, well-loved horses with high welfare standard
  • Opportunities to learn horsemanship and groundwork
  • Stunning and peaceful countryside location
  • Multitude of other activities & cultural excursions

Essential Facts

  • 2 itineraries available
  • £595 $805 €700 - £1025 $1380 €1200 per person
  • Max 5 riders per group
  • Average of 2 - 3 hours riding per day
  • Weight limit: Strictly 80kg/176lbs/12st 8lbs.
    more info One rider up to 85kg can be accepted with each group, but please enquire.

Description

Martine and her family set up their wonderful ranch with the goal of creating a peaceful place to share with their horses and guests.

At the stables, everything revolves around the horse's welfare, building respect and connection between human and animal. The horses live as socially as possible on sand paddocks and are cared for with attention and love. They are energetic, relaxed, and reliable – perfect partners for an unforgettable riding holiday.

Martine carefully designs and plans the stays to provide in-depth experiences with groundwork, horsemanship, and trail rides, all in small groups with personal guidance. There is also the option to take lessons in the Centered Riding technique, improving your balance, breathing, and seat while deepening your communication with the horse.

For Martine and her horses, riding is not about performance or speed, but about a conscious and harmonious way of riding, where both rider and horse enjoy the experience. You can experience the calm of nature, feel the friendship of the horses, and discover the magic of Djerba!

Horses & Riding

Tack

The horses are ridden in a mix of saddles, including English, western, endurance saddles and Baroque, some are traditional tree saddles and others are treeless. The saddles are selected and matched to the horses keeping their individual needs and conformation in mind. They wear simple bridles or go bitless, again according to what suits the individual horse best.

Horses

The ranch is currently home to twelve lovely horses; ten stallions and two geldings. They are predominantly local Barbary horses (although there are some Arabians too) that have small statures but big hearts. Generally speaking they are between 14-15 hands high (142-152 cm).

The horses have spent most of their lives living at the ranch and have been trained with kindness and respect. They have individual characters and are well cared for by your hosts. There are horses available to suit all levels and experiences.

Riding

There are 2 itineraries:

  • Horses & Culture Retreat is a based ride
  • Ride & Relax Stay is a based ride

Ages

None within reason. Young riders must be comfortable and confident to ride a fit and forward going horse at all paces. All minors should be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Health

General good fitness recommended.

Weight

Strictly 80kg/176lbs/12st 8lbs. One rider up to 85kg can be accepted with each group, but please enquire.

Food & Accommodation

Food

Meal inclusions vary according to your chosen programme.

For the Ride & Relax stays, you will have breakfast provisions provided on your bungalow kitchen to help yourself to. This will typically include fruit juice, coffee, tea, water, milk, yoghurt, cream cheese, marmalade, halwa tahini, margarine, eggs and fresh baguette.

For those on the Horses & Culture Retreat programme, you will have breakfast served in the beautiful outdoor kitchen each morning, which could include fresh bread, croissants, juice, tea and coffee, pancakes, cooked eggs, yogurt, cereal as well as samples of traditional Tunisian breakfast foods! Each evening, you will also be served a delicious 3 course dinner cooked by Martine's husband - a professional chef. This will include ample Tunisian dishes for you to try.

The ranch is located a short distance from the tourist areas of Djerba. Here you'll find a selection of wonderful local restaurants to try, serving traditional Tunisian dishes, fresh seafood or options for more European tastes too. Food delivery services are also quite common and the area the accommodation is located in is generally covered - so you can easily order take away to be delivered if you prefer to stay in and relax.

Tunisian cuisine is typically quite vibrant, spicy and mediterranean inspired with dishes comprising harissa, olive oil, seafood and plenty of fresh produce. Unlike many of Tunisia's neighbouring countries, its dishes are distinctively bold, featuring many fragrant herbs and spices such as cumin, coriander and caraway to create deeply flavour packed meals.

Accommodation

Guest accommodation is in one of three bungalows at the ranch; these feature one or two double bedrooms. The bungalows are built in traditional Djerba style for a truly authentic feeling. The bungalows are equipped with a living room, own kitchen, air conditioning, and a bathroom with shower and toilet.

In the garden there is an outdoor kitchen and dining area, a big terrace with a swimming pool, comfortable sun beds and parasols for your use. Free WIFI is available in the outdoor kitchen but does not extend to the rooms.

All accommodations have their own private terraces and are close to the horse paddocks, ideal for any horse lover!

Itineraries

Horses & Culture Retreat Standard accommodation.

Ride & Relax Stay Basic accommodation.

Other Activities

There is a lovely pool at the ranch for guests to use during their stay.

Your hosts are also very happy to help you plan excursions and visits in the local area. The region is well established for visitors, with boat trips to see wild dolphins and flamingoes, trips into local villages to visit markets, museums and traditional restaurants, or to spend an afternoon at the beach. It's also possible to book kitesurfing and windsurfing experiences locally.

Travel

The ranch is located just 30 minutes drive from Djerba international airport. Transfers to and from the airport on arrival and departure are included with your stay.

Car and scooter hire is also a possibility for visitors, but it's easy to travel between the ranch and the main tourist areas of this region by taxi. Fares are relatively inexpensive.

Testimonials

Kathryn H., Sept. 10, 2026

A great equine escape to the surreal landscape of Tunisia. Riding on the beautiful beaches on well loved horses was a truly lovely experience. A welcoming host for whom nothing was too much trouble and who knew her animals and was able to partner us all up with the appropriate mounts. The groundwork aspect was interesting and I really enjoyed these sessions. The trips out were enjoyable and very interesting and the massage being available just made the whole thing perfect! Martine was excellent and able to change plans when other factors intruded and Othman's suggestion of dawn for the swimming ride and willingness to lead that ride was very much appreciated as it resulted in some stunning photos!


Itinerary & Pricing

Day 1 - Arrival

Riding: No riding.

** Please note that the below is an outline itinerary to give you an idea of what to expect. The rides may need to be adjust the rides and timings to suit the local conditions, i.e avoiding very hot parts of the day, or planning to ride when the sea is calm.**

Arrive to Djerba International airport and take the included transfer to the ranch.

Your hosts will prepare a wonderful traditional dinner, allowing you to enjoy your first sample of Tunisia's culinary delights. Martine's husband is a professional chef, so this is guaranteed to be a fabulous treat.

This will also be a great opportunity to discuss the week's itinerary and get to know your fellow guests and riders.

Day 2

Riding: 2 - 3 hours

Rise & Shine!

An early start for a lovely breakfast together on the terrace. Once you're ready, gather up your riding gear and head to the stables for the first official meeting with the horses.

Martine will take some time to introduce everyone to their mount for the ride and tell you about their individual personality and characters. You'll help to groom and saddle the horses and mount up to make sure you are happy with your horse and tack before we head out on our first trail ride to discover the countryside.

On return to the ranch, you will help to untack and wash off the horses before returning to the accommodation to clean up. you might like to take a taxi into town for lunch or perhaps head to one of the lovely beachfront hotels instead. Or you might prefer to have some free time in the afternoon to cool-off by the pool!

Finish the day with another tasty dinner cooked by Martine's husband.

Day 3

Riding: 2 - 3 hours

Perhaps another early start today and a leisurely alfresco breakfast!

Meet at the stables when you're ready to enjoy another lovely trail with Martine and her wonderful horses. On your return to the ranch you'll help to look after the horses and make sure they are comfortable, before freshening up and heading into town together for lunch.

Today you might like to spend a little more time in town, exploring, or perhaps heading to the beach for a relaxed afternoon.

Returning to the ranch in the late afternoon, you will have the opportunity to join Martine at the stables for an introductory groundwork session. This will be a wonderful masterclass in reading your horse's body language, developing a way of communicating with them and gaining a better understanding of their behaviour. Following Martine's wonderful demonstration, you will have the chance to try and work through simple exercises under her supervision.

With the feeling of deeper connection, you will enjoy another tasty dinner and the opportunity to discuss everything you have learnt and experienced today.

Day 4

Riding: 2 - 3 hours

Your trail ride today might take us along the stunning coast and beaches of flamingo island. Keep your eyes peeled for the characteristic pink plumage of these flamboyant birds amongst the backdrop of white sand and the crystal blue sea.

In the afternoon, you might like to simply enjoy some free time by the pool, or may prefer to book a kite or windsurfing session nearby. Please let us know if you are interested in doing this as it will likely need to be booked in advance of travel.

Meet back at the ranch in the early evening for a delicious dinner together with the group.

Day 5

Riding: 2 - 3 hours

Hopefully by this point in the week, we will be starting to settle into the daily pace and routine on the ranch.

Today you might take things a little easier in the morning and instead enjoys a late afternoon ride before sunset. The morning will be free to enjoy lunch in town and perhaps another opportunity to visit the markets to pick up some souvenirs.

Returning to the ranch in the early evening, for another tasty dinner.

Day 6

Riding: 2 - 3 hours

Depending on the tides, today might be the perfect opportunity to take the horses to the sea and enjoy a refreshing swim together. Martine will be on-hand to document this wonderful moment and capture photos you can keep to treasure forever. It's a unique opportunity and one you'll want to look back on with great fondness.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you please, or perhaps take another inspiring groundwork session with Martine and her wonderful horses.

A delicious group dinner back at the ranch will give the chance to connect and share stories, dreams and experiences of the day.

Day 7

Riding: 2 - 3 hours

Rise bright and early today for our final day in paradise.

Meet Martine and your wonderful horses after breakfast to take our final ride together with gratitude and full hearts!

On return to the ranch, we can spend time caring for and making sure the horses are comfortable before freshening up to head into town or to the beach. The afternoon is yours once again; perhaps you'd like to return to the beach for a few hours, or back to the ranch to rest and relax. We can also help you in booking tours or activities locally, if you are still feeling active!

This will also be a final opportunity for taking a groundwork session to improve on what you've learnt so far and build a deeper bond with your horses. Perhaps you may even manage your session at liberty!

A final celebratory dinner together with your fellow riders and hosts will signify a perfect end to this retreat.

Day 8 - Departure

Riding: No riding.

After breakfast today you'll collect up your bags and take a transfer to Djerba airport for your flights home.

A final goodbye to our fellow riders, humans and wonderful horses!

Experience Intermediate / Experienced

Strong intermediate and experienced riders are welcome. The horses are calm and sensitive, with individual characters, so your hosts will do their best to match you with the best possible partner. You should be confident riding at walk, trot and canter outdoors for the trails. This is not a fast paced ride with multiple gallops, although the pace is still varied. This ride suits those who share your hosts passion for treating horses with respect and gratitude.
Minimum group size 3
Maximum group size 5
Departure windows

April 3, 2027 - April 10, 2027

May 29, 2027 - June 5, 2027

Sept. 11, 2027 - Sept. 18, 2027

Oct. 9, 2027 - Oct. 16, 2027

Nov. 6, 2027 - Nov. 13, 2027

Pricing

2027
Rider, single room in shared bungalow (shared bathroom)		 £1025 $1380 €1200
Included Return Djerba airport transfers, 7 nights accommodation in single rooms with breakfasts, dinner each evening, 6 trail rides, 2 groundwork/liberty sessions, 1 swimming with horses session + photoshoot, 1 guided market/town visit.
Not included flights, lunches, insurance, drinks, tips, taxi costs to/from town and personal expenses.
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.

Day 1 - Arrival

Riding: No riding.

Arrive to Djerba International airport and take the included transfer to the ranch.

If time allows, you will be able to sit down with Martine to discuss the week's itinerary and make a plan for your rides, as well as meeting the horses.

Days 2 to 7

Riding: 2 - 3 hours

** Please note that the below is an outline itinerary to give you an idea of what to expect. The rides may need to be adjust the rides and timings to suit the local conditions, i.e avoiding very hot parts of the day, or planning to ride when the sea is calm.**

Each morning you will be able to help yourself to breakfast in your bungalow (or perhaps a quick cup of coffee if you are heading out for an early ride). Once we're ready, gather up our riding gear and head to the stables to meet the horses. You'll help groom and tack up your horse before mounting up and heading out for a trail of approx. 2.5 hours.

You might head for a ride to the beach to enjoy the sand and waves or perhaps an inland ride to see the traditional landscapes and villages of the area. The going is sandy so there will be plenty of opportunities for trots and canters.

You'll be back in time to freshen up and enjoy some lunch, or perhaps head to the beach or a nearby village to sample some of the local cuisine.

The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy as you please.

Day 8 - Departure

Riding: No riding.

After breakfast today you'll collect up your bags and take a transfer to Djerba airport for your flights home.

Experience Intermediate / Experienced

Strong intermediate and experienced riders are welcome. The horses are calm and sensitive, with individual characters, so your hosts will do their best to match you with the best possible partner. You should be confident riding at walk, trot and canter outdoors for the trails. This is not a fast paced ride with multiple gallops, although the pace is still varied. This ride suits those who share your hosts passion for treating horses with respect and gratitude.
Minimum group size 1
Maximum group size 5
Departure windows

At any time during: Sept. 1, 2026 - May 31, 2027  (Dates to suit, depending on availability.)

Pricing

2026/2027
Rider, sharing one bed bungalow (double)		 £595 $805 €700
2026/2027
Rider, single room in shared bungalow (shared bathroom)		 £660 $890 €775
2026/2027
Rider, single room in own bungalow		 £685 $920 €800
Included Return Djerba airport transfers, 7 nights accommodation with breakfast and 6 short trail rides (approx. 2.5 hour).
Not included flights, lunches, dinners, insurance, drinks, tips, personal expenses and excursions.
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.