Extraordinary Equestrian Experiences Around the World
01. Riding Through Rajasthan’s Leopard Country
SUJÁN JAWAI, Rajasthan, India
Set amidst the dramatic granite formations of Rajasthan’s leopard country, SUJÁN JAWAI has introduced a deeply immersive equestrian programme that offers a slower, more intuitive way to experience the region’s wilderness.
Home to a stable of elegant Marwari and Kathiawari horses—both indigenous breeds celebrated for their endurance, intelligence, and distinctive curved ears—the camp invites guests to explore Jawai’s ancient landscape on horseback. Trails traverse scrublands, seasonal riverbeds, and quiet lakeshores where wildlife sightings often unfold naturally along the way.
Designed as more than a traditional riding experience, the programme places equal emphasis on connection, stillness, and understanding the temperament of these remarkable animals. Guests can spend time within the stables learning the nuances of grooming and groundwork or participate in guided sessions focused on non-verbal communication and trust-building techniques.
For those looking to venture further afield, expert horsemen lead longer rides through remote stretches of the region, offering a rare perspective on Jawai’s unique coexistence between wildlife, Rabari communities, and the rugged Aravalli landscape that defines this extraordinary destination.
02. The Gaucho Way
Relais & Châteaux El Colibri, Santa Catalina, Argentina
El Colibri feels as if it emanates from a different era. Owners Stephanie and Raoul Fenestraz have transformed it into a home for gauchos, a polo team, and a tropilla (herd) of native Criollo horses, successfully blending European hospitality with the spirit of the Argentine countryside.
“Horse Paradise,” the estancia’s immersive gaucho experience, includes up to six hours of horseback riding each day. Located just 45 minutes from Córdoba, every day offers something different—from blazing trails through the Pampas to enjoying a pre-polo mate ritual.
Riding across Argentina’s rugged expanses, with the wind at your back and a Criollo horse beneath you, the gaucho way soon feels less like a choice and more like a calling.
03. Where Humans, Animals and Nature Coexist
Relais & Châteaux Finca La Donaira, Montecorto, Spain
At Finca La Donaira, horsemanship is not simply an activity but a profound way of life guided by time, tradition, and respect for its stable of Lusitano horses.
The property’s breeding and training programme combines classical principles with a modern understanding of equine behaviour, balancing physical soundness with mental well-being. Guests are invited to connect with this philosophy through riding sessions tailored to their experience level.
The goal is to foster a positive relationship between rider and horse through listening, patience, consistency, and an understanding of natural equine behaviour. Set within a protected Andalusian landscape, La Donaira offers an inspiring environment where humans and horses live in harmony.
04. Soulful Creatures
Relais & Châteaux Le Domaine de la Klauss, Montenach, France
Mathilde Keff’s lifelong love of horses was rekindled when her husband, Alexandre, gifted her a horse. Since then, her herd has grown to seven Iberian horses.
Experienced riders can join Mathilde on rides through ancient woodlands, while beginners are warmly welcomed into the equestrian world. Alongside an equine coach, she has curated a series of reflective experiences focused on stress management, emotional control, communication, and leadership.
Guests can paint the Lorraine landscape with horses nearby, enjoy breakfast in their company, or simply spend time bonding with these intuitive animals. Here, life unfolds at a wonderfully unhurried pace.
05. A Dance Between Man and Horse
Relais & Châteaux La Bamba de Areco, San Antonio de Areco, Argentina
Originally established as a polo stud, La Bamba de Areco remains deeply rooted in Argentina’s equestrian traditions.
The estancia’s spirit is embodied by head gaucho Martin Tatta, who was born on the property and possesses an extraordinary connection with horses. Each afternoon, guests can witness demonstrations of “doma india”—a silent conversation, almost a dance, between horse and rider built entirely on trust and understanding.
Exploring the Pampas and the banks of the Areco River on horseback offers an authentic journey into the heart of Argentina’s gaucho culture.
06. A Life Spent in the Saddle
Relais & Châteaux Il Bottaccio, Montignoso, Italy
At Monte Brugiana, nestled at the foot of the Apuan Alps, horses serve as both companions and a living link to the land.
Through its partnership with a nearby horse-training farm, Il Bottaccio offers guests access to expert-led riding experiences. Paolo Monteleone, an accomplished guide who has travelled across Europe on horseback, leads treks through the Apuan Alps and the Tuscan-Emilian Apennine National Park.
Whether for beginners or seasoned riders, the trails offer a unique way to discover this remarkable landscape.
07. Racing Royalty
Relais & Châteaux Cashel Palace, Cashel, Ireland
Cashel Palace provides privileged access to two institutions that have shaped the history of modern thoroughbred racing.
Guests begin with a visit to Ballydoyle Racing, home of legendary trainer Aidan O’Brien, before continuing to Fethard, widely regarded as the cradle of Ireland’s equine heritage.
The experience culminates at Coolmore Stud, where visitors enjoy guided access to celebrated stallions and the exclusive Legacy Museum. Accompanied by the property’s Equine Concierge, guests gain rare insight into the dedication, expertise, and legacy behind Ireland’s world-renowned racing industry.
08. At the Heart of French Polo
Relais & Châteaux Auberge du Jeu de Paume, Chantilly, France
Located near the prestigious Chantilly Polo Club, Auberge du Jeu de Paume offers guests access to one of Europe’s leading polo centres.
Home to nearly 1,400 horses and host to approximately 500 matches each season, the club showcases the remarkable partnership between horse and rider. Guests can attend matches, meet professional players, and participate in introductory polo programmes throughout the year.
09. Pure Equestrian Elegance
Relais & Châteaux Hardenberg Burghotel, Nörten-Hardenberg, Germany
At Hardenberg Burghotel, horsemanship is woven into the fabric of the estate’s history.
Surrounded by vast meadows and rolling forests, guests can enjoy personalized lessons, dressage sessions, countryside rides, and advanced training experiences. Supported by centuries-old breeding traditions, the property offers attentive guidance for riders of all levels.
Against the backdrop of Hardenberg Castle’s romantic ruins, horseback riding becomes a return to timeless elegance.
10. With Sacred Horses
Relais & Châteaux Le Nuku Hiva by Pearl Resort, Taiohae, French Polynesia
In the Marquesas Islands, horses occupy a special place within local culture.
Guests can explore Nuku Hiva’s dramatic landscapes alongside local guides, following trails that cross volcanic ridges, lush valleys, and plateaus overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, riders encounter endemic forests, coconut-lined beaches, and spectacular cliffside viewpoints.
The experience offers a unique window into both the wild beauty and rich traditions of the Marquesas.
11. A Stable of Champions
Relais & Châteaux Domaine de Rymska & Spa, Saint-Jean-de-Trézy, France
At Domaine de Rymska, horses are central to the estate’s identity and heritage.
Named after Rymska, a filly born on the property who went on to become a champion racehorse in France and the United States, the estate now operates a thoroughbred breeding programme with around 20 broodmares.
Owner and Maître de Maison Eric Feurtet welcomes guests to discover the daily rituals, breeding techniques, and expertise that define this demanding world. Visitors learn to interpret horse behaviour, understand life on the farm, and reconnect with a slower, more authentic rhythm of living close to nature.
