Written by Harriet Shephard
Equestrian escapes for adventurous souls.
Rhythmic, screen-free, and rooted in the present moment, horse riding is one of the most therapeutic and
relaxing ways to unwind and reconnect with nature. It’s therefore no wonder that equestrian escapes are emerging as a leading travel trend.
Providing a unique alternative to spa breaks, yoga retreats, and other more traditional wellness itineraries, many gorgeous global destinations are now offering once-in-a-lifetime equestrian experiences for riders of every level.
From the rugged mountains of Kyrgyzstan to the quaint English countryside and the exotic wilderness of northern India, here are six of the world’s most unforgettable equestrian inspired adventures.
Alexandra Tolstoy Travel, Kyrgyzstan
The creation of British equine adventurer and TV presenter Alexandra Tolstoy, this one-of-a-kind travel company invites you to explore the stunning Tien Shan mountains of Kyrgyzstan on horseback. Taking you along old shepherds’ routes, through walnut forests, and across high pastures and green valleys, every minute of the route is guided by local Kyrgyz horsemen, while cooks and luxury camping equipment travel with you to ensure you rest and recuperate in total comfort. As an official ambassador for tourism in Kyrgyzstan, Alexandra’s passion for the country is truly infectious. To find out more, check out her new documentary Beyond the Silk Road, filmed with British actor Dominic West.
Visit alexandratolstoytravel.com
Aman-i-Khas, India
Any property by Aman is guaranteed to be on another level of spectacular, and Aman-i Khas in Rajasthan, India, might just be the revered hotel group’s most idyllic creation yet. Home to 13 luxurious, Mughal-inspired tents on the edge of Ranthambore National Park (home to the elusive Bengal tiger), it’s the perfect break for keen riders who want to get well and truly off the beaten track. Offering you the chance to embark on romantic horse safaris on rare Marwari horses (an elegant breed once prized by Rajput royals for their loyalty and endurance), it’s the ultimate way of immersing yourself in the history and culture of the region. Whether you’re new to riding or an experienced equestrian, you’ll have the time of your life out there.
Visit aman.com
Costa Navarino, Greece
Located on the undeveloped Peloponnese coastline in Greece, the Mandarin Oriental Costa Navarino is a sustainable resort known for its breath-taking mountain scenery, quiet beaches, and amazing views of the Ionian Sea. An escape from the tourist-clogged Greek islands, Costa Navarino lets you discover a more authentic side to the country. Perhaps the destination’s most luxurious hotel, its coastal horse-riding excursions look almost too beautiful to be real. This is your chance to experience the freedom of riding along the golden sand with the sea breeze running through your hair. There’s also a six-hour forest and
beach picnic tour that takes you past some of the region’s most astonishing hidden wonders and secret spots, while photo souvenirs of your ride can also be arranged.
Visit mandarinoriental.com
Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire
Set within an immaculately restored 18th-century manor in the English countryside, holiday locations don’t get more quintessentially British than the Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire. Just like stepping into your own episode of Bridgerton, the plush suites provide just the right balance between tradition and modern comforts, while being able to set off on a hack through the estate’s 300 acres of lakes and woodland completes the old-English feel nicely. Inviting you to canter through open fields, the hotel allows you to relish the total peace and serenity of rural England and warm up afterwards with tea and cake in front of one of the many open roaring fires – it’s the kind of experience you won’t ever forget. The ideal destination for animal lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone with ultra-sophisticated taste, the hotel is also just one hour away from the excitement and attractions of central London.
Visit fourseasons.com/hampshire
Lopota Lake Resort & Spa, Georgia
Located on the edge of a shimmering lake in Georgia’s majestic Caucasus Mountains, Lopota invites everyone to experience the joys of horse riding in the most extraordinary setting imaginable.
While beginners and children can explore the 60-hectare grounds, more experienced riders are encouraged to head out for longer excursions through apple orchards, ancient ruins, vineyards, and pretty lakeside paths. Other nourishing activities such as paddle-boating, outdoor yoga, organic gardening, and Slavic bathhouse experiences complement the cosy rooms, while the indoor and outdoor pools and extensive array of spa facilities ensure you come away feeling totally revitalised and like a whole new person.
Visit lopotaresort.com
Al Maha A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai
You don’t have to travel far from home to find an extraordinary horse-riding escape. Set within the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Maha encourages you to explore the protected area’s astonishing expanse of golden desert by horseback. Home to 600 species of flora and fauna, the locale teems with incredible wildlife such as the Arabian oryx, gazelles, desert foxes, and rare birds. You can also cool off after your ride in your own private, temperature-controlled swimming pool at your tented villa.
Visit marriott/dxbam-al-maha-a-luxury-collection-desert-resort and-spa-dubai
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF THE HOTELS AND ALEXANDRA TOLSTOY TRAVEL
