There is a really special bond between animals and people, especially when they spend some time together and go on an adventure. Known from ancient times and portrayed in numerous books, songs, and movies, the bond that is created between riders and horses is definitely one of the most beautiful ones. Besides enjoying the company of such a noble animal as a horse, riding through nature is one of the most liberating experiences a person can have. The feeling of freedom when riding can’t easily be described and everyone should certainly try it at least once in their lifetime. For those who already did so and fell in love with horses and riding, we suggest some of the most beautiful places in Europe that you can discover and enjoy on a horse:
1. Black beaches of Iceland
The mystical volcanic landscape of Iceland has been attracting people for ages. One of the most beautiful sights is for sure the black sand beaches that are in dramatic contrast with the white foam of the waves of the Atlantic. You can experience it for example by riding on the South Coast of Iceland at the incredible Víkurfjara black beach. Riding on this beach is an extraordinary experience and not only because of the breathtaking scenery but also because of the super-cute Icelandic horses. The very patient and obedient horse’s height ranges between 128 and 148 cm but beware – never refer to them as ponies!
2. Tuscany, Italy
One of the most beautiful regions of Italy, Tuscany, boasts gorgeous nature, rich culture, history and art and, of course, exquisite food and wine. All of this you can discover on the back of your horse, depending on what your interests are. The tours can be adapted depending on how many days of ride you’d like and your experience level. Whether you choose to spend a week riding a week or just a day or two it is in any case a holiday you’ll never forget!
3. Lapland, Finland
There is something special about autumn in Finland – vibrant autumn leaf colours known as ‘ruska’ to the locals are particularly beautiful in the north and what better way to experience it than by riding through the nature of the Arctic Circle. A bit different from the landscape of the rest of Finland with mountains and lakes, the scenery around you will be the one of the northern wilderness where you will also spend your nights in tents or cabins and, besides riding, enjoy traditional Lappish food dishes – perfect for any horse riding nature lover!
4. Bordeaux, France
You guessed it! These horse rinding holidays combine the best in the world – horses and wine. Riding through the beautiful wine-growing scenery and stopping each day at a different spot to taste some of the best wines in Bordeaux.. well, it doesn’t get much better than this! Besides gorgeous landscapes of vineyards, the French countryside also offers rich cultural experience with castles and forts you can visit or have a picnic nearby.
5. Romania, Transylvania trail
In the center of Romania, near the town Brasov, you can enjoy a ride through beautiful scenery that hasn’t changed much over the last hundred years. Here horses are still very important and used for transport by the villagers as well as for work in the field so you will fit right in. Open grasslands without fences just wait for you to enjoy riding through them, you will feel the history of the area and immerse yourself completely in the culture, appreciating every second of the most wonderful experience.