From eagle festivals in Mongolia to luxury riding safaris in Africa, this is the year to honour the deep-rooted connection between people and horses
Whether you’re riding across Icelandic lava fields, staying at working ranches in Ecuador, or witnessing classical horsemanship in Spain, these experiences go far beyond the stables. They’re immersive, authentic, and unforgettable. Here, we share ten of the best.
- 01. Awasi Patagonia – Gaucho Trails in Torres del Paine
- 02. Sosian Lodge – Riding with Wildlife in Laikipia
- 03. Mongolia Grasslands – Steppe & Nomad Trails
- 04. Ant’s Nest – Family-Friendly Riding in South Africa
- 05. Iceland South Coast – Volcanic Canters
- 06. Hacienda Zuleta – Andean Highland Pursuits
- 07. Château Rides in France – Vineyards & Village Trails
- 08. Royal Andalusian Riding School – Spanish Equestrian Theatre
- 9. Aerial BVI – Equine Sanctuary Vibes
- 10. Casal Branco – Lusitano Horses & Wine
- 11. NIHI Sumba – Wild Riding on Remote Shores
In southern Chile, Awasi Patagonia offers tailormade riding adventures across its soul-stirring private reserve near Torres del Paine. With just 14 villas and a personal guide, the experience is both exclusive and immersive. You’ll explore pampas, forests and valleys on horseback, with the option to visit a nearby estancia and learn more about Patagonia’s rich gaucho traditions.
Awasi Patagonia – Gaucho Trails in Torres del Paine
Sosian Lodge – Riding with Wildlife in Laikipia
In Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau, Sosian Lodge offers lodge-based riding safaris across open savannah and riverine forest. Horses are well-schooled, and rides are tailored to experience level, making it a great option for families or mixed-ability groups. You may spot an elephant, a giraffe or a zebra from the saddle, with sundowners to follow.
Horse culture is central to life in Mongolia. Itineraries include stays in ger camps, visits to local festivals like Naadam, and time with nomadic families. Rides cover long distances across open steppe, and horses are still used daily for transport, herding and competition. One for adventurous travellers keen to explore a unique way of life.
Mongolia Grasslands – Steppe & Nomad Trails
Ant’s Nest – Family-Friendly Riding in South Africa
Set in a private reserve in South Africa’s Waterberg, Ant’s Nest is perfect for families and less experienced riders. Rides are gentle, scenic and often wildlife-filled, with opportunities to canter alongside giraffe or wind through bushveld trails. Children can enjoy pony rides, and non-riders are equally well looked after at the lodge
Icelandic horses are known for their unique gait and resilience. Rides along the south coast cover a mix of beaches, lava fields and waterfalls. It’s a practical way to explore the island’s wild terrain, with tours suited to all experience levels. Horseback access means you’ll reach quieter, more remote spots.
Iceland South Coast – Volcanic Canters
Hacienda Zuleta – Andean Highland Pursuits
Hacienda Zuleta is working farm in Ecuador's highlands and a great base for horseback exploration. Trails pass through eucalyptus forests, open valleys and local villages, and the horses here are bred onsite. There’s also a strong cultural and conservation element, with condor rehabilitation projects and community involvement.
France offers some of Europe’s most graceful riding escapes, from château-based stays in the Loire Valley to vineyard trails in Provence and beach rides in the Camargue. Many itineraries are designed for intermediate riders and include wine tasting, gourmet meals and plenty of time to soak in the scenery.
Château Rides in France – Vineyards & Village Trails
Royal Andalusian Riding School – Spanish Equestrian Theatre
In Jerez, the Royal Andalusian Riding School offers a glimpse into classical horsemanship. Visitors can tour the stables or attend one of the weekly performances, where Andalusian horses and riders showcase traditional dressage. It’s a cultural highlight for anyone interested in Spain’s equestrian heritage.
On a remote private island in the British Virgin Islands, Aerial offers a calm, coastal setting for equine therapy. Daily sessions include grooming, groundwork and beachside riding, all led by trained professionals. It’s a good option for those looking to reconnect or reset, with a focus on wellbeing rather than sport.
Aerial BVI – Equine Sanctuary Vibes
Casal Branco – Lusitano Horses & Wine
This family estate in central Portugal combines horse breeding and winemaking. Guests can tour the vineyards, meet the Lusitano horses and join a relaxed ride through the surrounding countryside. The pace is slower here – more about the setting and lifestyle than long-distance rides – and ideal for casual riders or first-timers.
On the remote Indonesian island of Sumba, NIHI offers horseback adventures that feel utterly unfiltered. Gallop along a deserted beach at sunrise, ride into the waves bareback, or explore traditional Sumbanese villages with a guide. The on-site Sandalwood Stables work closely with the local community. Ideal for free spirits and beach-loving riders, it’s both wild and refined.
NIHI Sumba – Wild Riding on Remote Shores
Wherever in the world they take you, horses have a way of grounding us, revealing landscapes, cultures and connections we might otherwise miss. If one of these journeys has sparked something in you, let our expert team help create the perfect riding escape tailored to your pace, passions and level of experience. Get in touch to start planning.
Photography credits: Unsplash, hotels' own, and Lightfoot's Team
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