The South West has a wealth of horse holidays with something exciting for every taste and level of riding - and there's plenty to do for non-horsey partners.
Horse tourism has moved into the fast track with all-inclusive five star 'equine house parties' in areas like Exmoor which can be tailormade to your exact requirements. Holiday providers are now much more likely to cater to your every need and offer complete flexibility - for example, you can choose short breaks or week long holidays; book luxury self-catering accommodation�if you'd prefer to do your own thing; or treat yourself to total pampering with everything provided, from breakfast, lunch and dinner including wine and soft drinks, to champagne picnics and even a horse to ride.�Many riding�establishments will be happy to point you in the direction of beautiful outriding or can provide knowledgable, expert guides to ensure you see the best parts of the area.
�
Many equine accommodation providers are also keen horsemen themselves, and are delighted to organise trips to nearby training and competition centres, rides on the beach, a day's exhilarating hunting, or a specialist workshop or clinic. When time is at a premium, it's understood that, while you take a holiday with your horse, you may like to combine it with improving your skills in your chosen discipline - be it dressage, cross country, Trec, endurance or show jumping. It is becoming much easier - and expected - to enquire about specialist training during your visit.
�
With more basic accommodation but no shortage of thrills, equine enthusiasts who prefer a total horsey experience can stay at one of the outstanding equestrian training and competition centres' Residential Camps' - which offer the opportunity to train with some of the region's very best instructors.
�
The South West�offers a full schedule of equestrian events and shows, courses, workshops, demos, clinics and pleasure rides. It's very easy to time your holiday to take in a variety of events - with or without your horse. Many country events also have plenty of activities and attractions for non-horsey family and friends, while you check out your favourite breeds and watch the local professionals competing. The region also hosts a full calender of racing - at Wincanton, Taunton, Newton Abbott and Exeter and many top horse racing trainers are based here. You'll also find a host of specialist visitor attractions such as Horse World, the Miniature Pony Centre, the Donkey Sanctury, Shire and Heavy Horse centres and carriage driving. Partners, friends and family who don't actually ride will be spoilt for choice for things to do - try mountain biking, fishing, walking, clay pigeon shooting, falconry, sailing, canoeing, discovering local arts and crafts and food and safaris - just for starters!
�
It may be that both you and your horse need to rest, recuperate, de-stress and generally take time out from your usual environment to regain your equilibrium. So for something completely different, why not take your horse to an equine spa or book a short introductory course in an alternative therapy. Many establishmens encourage you to bring your horse with you.
�
Some of the most beautiful, varied and challenging outriding in the UK is available� across Exmoor, Dartmoor, Somerset and Devon - and it's not hard to understand why the area is such a draw for endurance and Trec competitions and riders. The equine events calender is packed with endurance rides, pleasure rides and Trec competitions. Organised rides are a great way to discover the countryside and you'll often get the chance to ride 'off piste' on routes that are normally not accessible to riders.
�
The British Horse Society is hard at work in the region and is shortly launching newly researched riding routes in Exmoor and the Quantock Hills, as well as building a useful resource of BHS approved riding establishments and instructors on www.bhssouthwest.org.uk.
�
A combination of wonderful accommodation, exciting outriding, specialist training and visits to local equestrian�events or shows could be just the tonic you and your horse need to refresh your partnership, improve your fitness and get in shape for the season ahead at home.
�
Add to all that the top quality accommodation for horse and rider, the delicious - often home cooked - cuisine and fresh local produce and the legendary warm welcome that is West Country hospitality and you have the perfect ingredients for a memorable horse holiday in the South West. Dogs are often welcome at many establishments.
|
|
