Contents:
- Campsites with an on-site riding centre
- Pony rides for children
- Horse rides to explore the surrounding area
- Bringing your own horse to the campsite
Campsites with an on-site equestrian centre
Some campsites have their own riding centre, situated on the campsite grounds. This is particularly the case at Yelloh! Village Les Ramières**** in Sahune (26), the Sandaya Séquoia Parc**** campsite in Saint-Just-Luzac (17), the Sandaya Domaine Presqu’île de la Franqui***** in Leucate (11) and the Le Domaine d’Anghione**** campsite in Castellare-di-Casinca (2B). This is a real bonus for enjoying horse riding whilst on holiday without having to search for a nearby riding centre.
Lessons and courses to practise or improve
Having an equestrian centre right on the campsite means you can make the most of your holiday to ride more regularly than you would on the odd occasional ride. Courses and lessons spread throughout the week allow riders to keep riding and improve their skills during their stay, whether in the indoor arena or the outdoor arena.
At the Les Ormes, Domaine et Resort***** campsite in Épiniac (35), the equestrian centre has several facilities dedicated to different disciplines: a dressage arena, a show jumping arena, a cross-country course and indoor riding halls. These facilities add a more competitive dimension to horse riding during the holidays.
At Yelloh! Village Mané Guernehue***** in Baden (56), the equestrian centre also offers lessons and courses, with packages allowing you to ride for several days. A great option for holidaymakers who wish to make the most of their stay to work on their technique or improve their riding skills.
Discover horse riding from a young age
Horse riding can also be one of the activities on offer for children during the holidays. At some campsites, the introduction isn’t limited to just a few minutes on a pony’s back: young holidaymakers can learn the basics of riding and get to know the animal.
For example, at La Garangeoire***** in Saint-Julien-des-Landes (85), introductory pony rides, lessons and pony games are among the activities on offer. In July and August, children aged 6 to 12 can also take part in introductory activities organised in conjunction with the kids’ club.
At the Domaine de l’Oiselière**** in Chauché (85), children can take their exploration a step further. Before mounting, they learn how to prepare their pony, groom it and saddle it. Introductory rides allow beginners to take their first steps, whilst short lessons are also available for children who are already more confident.
At Ty Nadan***** in Locunolé (29), the pony ranch also offers a comprehensive approach to horse riding. Children aged 6 to 10 learn how to care for and prepare the pony before learning the basics of riding, then taking part in games in the arena or going for a ride with an instructor.
A passion for horses
At the Yelloh! Village Le Village Western***** in Hourtin (33), horses are much more than just a holiday activity: they are part of the campsite’s very identity. Its equestrian centre is dedicated to Western-style riding and is fully integrated into the village’s atmosphere, right down to the activities on offer for holidaymakers. It’s a way to discover a different relationship with horses, centred on Western culture and spirit.
Pony rides for children
For children, a pony ride offers a first taste of horse riding, accessible from a very young age, with options tailored to the youngest riders. A parent can accompany their child on foot during the ride, which is a reassuring option for the very young children experiencing their first pony rides. For example, at the Domaine de la Bergerie***** in Roquebrune-sur-Argens (83), family rides are available for children aged 3 and over, as part of the campsite’s mini-ranch. At the Domaine d’Arnauteille***** in Montclar (11), children aged 3 to 7 can enjoy pony rides, whilst older children are welcome to go on horse rides.
Pony rides can also be part of the entertainment programme organised directly at the campsite. At the Sandaya Le Col Vert**** campsite in Vielle-Saint-Girons (40), there is an on-site riding centre and pony activities complement the range of activities on offer for children.
Horse rides to explore the surrounding area
For experienced riders, a trail ride offers a different way to explore the countryside around the campsite, whether it’s a one-hour outing or a longer ride. At the Yelloh! Village La Petite Camargue*****, in the Gard (30), horse rides take place mainly in the pine forest. Riding lessons are also available, depending on ability and availability.
At La Liez***** campsite in Peigney (52), horse rides last 1 hour 30 minutes. This duration allows you to make the most of the outing without having to devote half a day to the activity.
Bringing your own horse to the campsite
Some campsites also welcome riders travelling with their own horse, whether for a stopover or several nights. Whilst the rider stays in their accommodation at the campsite, their horse can be accommodated in a stable, a paddock or a field, depending on the site. Facilities may also be provided to make it easier to look after the horse and store equipment. This is particularly the case at some of the campsite equestrian centres mentioned in this article, such as those at La Garangeoire, Le Domaine des Ormes and Le Village Western.