On & Beyond the Saddle

While horse riding is often thought of as an activity that comes with a hefty price tag, this isn’t necessarily true. 

There’s no denying that 2020 has been a rocky road. The need to disconnect and focus on ourselves and our own wellbeing is now greater than ever.

As the temperatures begin to drop, some can’t wait for the first snowfall. All the while, others are already making plans to escape winter and ditch the heavy clothes.

There’s something magical about heading out on horseback in the crisp morning air, on snow-covered tracks, with nothing but the crunch of hooves to break the silence.

Longing for an escape from your daily routine? Can’t get away for an entire week? No problem! A short yet intense horse riding break offers all the fun and excitement of a regular holiday.

Whether you want to relax in the countryside, enjoy trail rides through olive groves or rolling hills, or go on beach rides, there are plenty of horse riding destinations in Europe to choose from.

Horse riding is a very broad term. It can include a variety of activities, from a short leisurely walk in the rolling countryside to dressage and competitive riding.

Have you mastered the basics and would like to develop your horse riding skills even further? Are you craving an epic adventure on horseback, covering long distances, riding across various terrains, and visiting remote places?

Growing up in a household where both parents adore animals certainly has its perks. As a toddler, where many of my friends would have to beg their parents for a kitten or a puppy, my house was already filled with (domesticated) animals to the point that some of our neighbors would lovingly refer to it as a ‘mini zoo’.

Learning to ride a horse is a thrilling experience, but the mere thought of hopping in the saddle for the first time is enough to make anyone nervous. Knowing what to expect from your first lessons can help ease some of that tension.

They say that the best view of the world can be seen from between the ears of a horse. After all, the thrill of discovering new places at a slow-pace, while connecting with your horse and surroundings, is beyond comparison.

Horse riding is one of the most exhilarating sports, in terms of both physical and mental recreation. A recent equestrianism study revealed that there are more than 9 million horses in the US alone, while over 7 million people take part in horseback riding every year.

Horse riding is a full-body workout. In order to feel confident in the saddle, you need strength, balance, and stamina.

Why opt for a five-star hotel when you can have a billion-star one? For a true wilderness camping experience, pack your horses and explore the backcountry on a multi-day adventure.

Are you thinking of going horse riding for the first time? It’s only natural to feel a bit nervous about it; after all, you’re about to ride a relatively large, living animal.

Known for being the location of the Rocky Mountains and Yellowstone National Park, what you may not know is that Montana is one of America’s most ideal destinations for horse riding vacations. What’s more, the Big Sky State also happens to be home to many of America’s top ranches!

One of the most frequently asked questions from novice riders is “what is the difference between English and Western riding?”, often followed by “which one is easiest?” 

Imagine listening to the soothing sounds of crashing waves and feeling the wind in your face as you canter and gallop across a breathtaking beach.

The United States is the ultimate destination for a traditional ranch vacation. If you’re looking to experience what it’s like to be a cowboy in the Wild West, there are various destinations where you can dig into the dirt on a working ranch, or experience the authentic ranch lifestyle.

Tango, soccer, and polo often spring to mind when thinking of Argentina. While it’s true that they are part of the nation’s identity, horsemanship, estancias, and the gauchos are also an integral part of its culture.

Spanning over 3.8 million square miles across its 50 states, it’s no surprise that the good ol’ U.S. of A offers an abundance of amazing horse riding destinations. 

As the country with just as many horses as citizens, Mongolia is a place with a strong equestrian tradition. For Mongolians riding a horse is as popular as riding a bike in the Western world. Mongolian children learn to ride a horse as early as three years old, often becoming jockeys at the age of seven to eight years.

One of the oldest countries in Europe, Portugal is a nation rich in history, excellent cuisine, and stunning beaches. As it is home to some of the biggest (and best) waves in the world, surfing enthusiasts may already be quite familiar with this beautiful country.

Blessed with gorgeous weather, diverse scenery, rich cultural heritage, exceptional cuisine and delicious wines, it’s hard to resist visiting Italy at least once in your lifetime.

Unleash your inner cowboy, the Indiana Jones or Lawrence of Arabia deep within, and hop in the saddle for the trip of a lifetime!

While horse riding may not be the activity that you would instantly thought of when thinking about Africa, it really ought to be!

A true gem for horse riding lovers, France has it all. The diverse landscapes stretching from Atlantic beaches all the way to the Alps, the vast amounts of unspoiled countryside, and an abundance of well-trained horses make this country an ideal choice for your equestrian adventure.

When you’re short on time or out of vacation days, it doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. In fact, an extended weekend, or even a regular one, can be a great adventure in itself!

Been dreaming of going on a horse riding holiday in South America? While all 12 countries of the region all offer breathtaking horse riding trails, there is a handful that ranks above the rest. 

When it comes to horse riding adventures in the wilderness, there’s probably no destination in the world that quite rivals Australia.

Located in the Northern part of Europe, the Scandinavian region covers three notable kingdoms: Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. However, do note that the term ‘Scandanavia’ is often used to refer to the broader Scandinavian Peninsula, which also covers the Nordic countries Finland and Iceland. 

Utterly astonishing landscapes interwoven with Norse mythology and Viking sagas. Some of the world’s most isolated and barren regions, barely touched by man, will leave you spell-bound. 

A vast continent renowned for its natural wonders, stunning landmarks, and an abundance of unique wildlife, Australia is certainly worthy of a spot high on your travel bucket list. 

There’s no better way to explore the United Kingdom than on horseback. From Scotland to England, there are plenty of bridle paths that are waiting for you to ride across the British countryside.

For a small nation, the Emerald Isle sure comes out on top. It has given the world Saint Patrick, Guinness, U2, and leprechauns. Yet Ireland’s greatest asset remains its raw natural beauty.

From the majestic landscapes in Sierra Nevada to the stunning beaches in Malaga, Andalusia is home to the most spectacular horse riding trails you can think of.

The United Kingdom holds many pockets of wilderness, and there’s no better way to explore the Welsh valleys, Scottish Highlands, and English moors than on horseback.

Looking to truly explore the ins and outs of the backcountry of the USA? There’s simply no experience that rivals an overnight or multi-day horse pack trip into the wilderness.

In case you aren’t already aware, “Go big or go home” is some sort of an unofficial ‘motto’  in Texas. This is probably why everything is indeed big in the Lone Star State – including its selection of horse riding & ranch excursions.

Mexico has a vast tradition with horses and it’s a must for riders looking for the most colorful ranch holidays.

Home of the famed Andalusian horse, flamenco, tapas, and wine, vast open fields, rugged coastlines, and green mountain pastures, Spain has a long and exemplary history of horsemanship.  

If you enjoy being in nature, with the wind dancing freely in your hair, then a horse riding holiday in the United Kingdom may just be the perfect idea of a getaway.

Fear can be a result of many things. It can be a result of something new and exciting or something you haven’t tried yet. Naturally, you are expecting and possibly stressing over the outcome. Or, it can be a result of something you have already done that had scared you in the past. 

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