European Riding Holidays that Non Riders will Love

Are you searching for the perfect equestrian holiday that accommodates both you and your non-riding companion? Discover our selection of horse riding holidays in Europe that offer exciting activities for both riders and non-riders to enjoy. Whether an experienced equestrian or someone who prefers to keep their feet on solid ground, the following destinations have something for everyone. Spend lazy afternoons lounging by the pool or venture out for an action-packed day of sightseeing, hiking, and even wine tasting. And for those who do want to saddle up, there’s plenty of opportunity to explore the surrounding countryside on horseback, soaking up the spectacular scenery and experiencing the thrill of riding alongside experienced guides. Welcome to our selection of riding holidays that non riders will love

Our Selection of Top Riding Holidays in Europe for Non-Riders

France – Alsace Gourmet Wine Trail:

Experience the beauty of the French countryside in autumn on our Alsace Gourmet Wine Trail, where both riders and non-riders can enjoy a memorable holiday. This trail is perfect for riders with friends or partners who prefer not to ride but are willing to participate in all the fun on e-bikes.

Scenic rides and e-bike adventures: Riders will traverse the picturesque landscapes on Icelandic horses, known for their smooth and comfortable tölt gait. Each day brings new experiences, with much of the ride being at a walk or fast tölt, allowing riders to take in the beautiful autumn scenery. Non-riders, meanwhile, can explore the same trails on e-bikes. These electric bikes make the journey enjoyable and accessible for those with average fitness, ensuring everyone can participate without difficulty.

Gourmet meals and wine tastings: One of the highlights of this holiday is the gourmet cuisine and high-quality wine. Each day, the group meets up for lunches that are extravagant affairs, featuring local delicacies and fine wines from the region. Evening meals are equally impressive, often paired with wines purchased during the day’s vineyard visits. The dinners are crafted around the wines, creating a perfect harmony of flavours and encouraging warm conversation.

Exploring Alsace: The group is trailered out to different locations to explore various landscapes and historical villages. This provides a diverse and enriching experience, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the culture and heritage of the Alsace region. Visits to vineyards are a daily feature, offering the chance to sample and purchase some of the best wines France has to offer.

An inclusive holiday for all: This holiday is designed to be inclusive, ensuring both riders and non-riders have a fantastic time. The e-bike routes are not long and are made easy with the help of electric assistance, making it an enjoyable experience for non-riders.

France – Horses and History in Lot

Another fantastic option in France is our Horses and History holiday in the Lot region. This experience offers an authentic taste of rural France, ideal for both riders and non-riders alike. Non-riders can enjoy the same engaging program of activities and visits, ensuring everyone has a memorable time.

Traditional accommodation: You’ll stay in a traditional rustic farmhouse where warm and welcoming hosts give the feel of an authentic homestay. Enjoy home-cooked meals prepared with fresh, regional produce, showcasing local dishes. Additionally, you’ll experience a dinner at a gourmet restaurant and a lunch at a specialty cheese maker in Rocamadour.

Exploring Lot: This hilly region is rich in history and natural beauty, providing endless opportunities for exploration. You will visit the famous 20,000-year-old cave paintings at Pech Merle and take a boat through the underground rivers of Gouffre de Padirac. You’ll also have the chance to discover medieval towns like Rocamadour, perched on dramatic cliffs, as well as quaint villages like St Cirq Lapopie.

Full board basis: Enjoy a full board experience, starting with dinner on day one and concluding with breakfast on day seven. This package includes non-alcoholic beverages and wine during dinner on-site, along with guided sightseeing activities.

Short Option Available: We also offer this holiday as a short break, ideal for anyone looking to escape for a refreshing four-night getaway. During your stay, you’ll have the chance to unwind and recharge while immersing yourself in the serene beauty of rural France.

Italy – Chianti Castles, Ride and Relax

Experience the enchanting Tuscan countryside with our Chianti Castles, Ride and Relax holiday. This family-run riding centre offers a high-quality experience, making it a perfect choice in our list of horse riding holidays that non riders will love.

Tailored riding experiences: The programme here offers two hours of riding a day, which can be a combination of trails or lessons. Guests can choose how to combine these sessions, with additional riding bookable as desired. The centre caters for all abilities of riders, making it perfect for groups with varied riding skills, including those who wish to try riding for the first time. Children from seven years old can also ride here, making it a great option for families.

Luxury accommodation and exploration:
Accommodation is in a charming farmhouse in the Chianti region, close to Siena, nestled in a valley. The location is perfect for exploring the area’s wealth of historical architecture and natural beauty. Hiring a car is highly recommended to help get the most out of your holiday.

Gourmet Tuscan cuisine:
Meals feature traditional Tuscan food prepared on-site by two professional chefs. Many ingredients are sourced from an organic farm or obtained locally, and vegetarian diets are easily accommodated. Guests will enjoy the authentic aromas and flavours of genuine Tuscan cuisine.

Activities for non-riders:
Non-riders have plenty of choices as to what to do in their free time. Options include relaxing by the pool, discovering nearby castles, churches, abbeys, and medieval villages, or walking and cycling the many local trails. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby thermal hot spas and pools or simply unwind in the serene natural surroundings.

Cultural and natural immersion: The breathtaking views, genuine hospitality, and the flavours and aromas of excellent food and wine will rejuvenate even the weariest of travellers. Whether you’re exploring the historical sites, indulging in gourmet meals, or relaxing in the countryside, this holiday offers something for everyone.

Netherlands – Friesian Beach and Forest Ride

For an authentic Dutch experience, consider our Frisian Beach and Forest Ride holiday on the island of Terschelling. This destination offers plenty of activities for non-riders, including exploring the island’s large nature reserve, relaxing on the beach, or taking a tour of the area in a covered wagon.

Self-catering apartments – Stay in self-catering apartments near the host’s farm in Oosterend, perfect for nature lovers and families. Each apartment offers comfortable beds, a fully-equipped kitchen, modern bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant every morning.

Wildlife – Terschelling is renowned for its beautiful and diverse natural landscapes and reserves. With 400ha of forest and over 600 different plant species, this island is a nature lover’s paradise. As for bird watching, Terschelling’s Boschplaat nature reserve is home to at least seventy different species of birds, and thanks to its location in the Northern Sea, the island is a key spot for bird migration.

Sightseeing – For non-riders, there are plenty of activities to enjoy on Terschelling. Take a stroll along the 30km sandy beach on the northern coast, or explore the island’s famous cranberry fields. Visit the historic Brandaris lighthouse, the oldest in the Netherlands, or embark on a mudflat hiking tour to explore the captivating intertidal world and discover the abundant wildlife thriving in the mudflats.

Other Activities and Events on the Island: Terschelling offers year-round activities, including the Oerol Festival in June, a famous performing arts festival. Explore the Terschelling Bunker Museum for a glimpse into World War II history, or visit the Wrakkenmuseum Terschelling to see artifacts from shipwrecks along the coast. And if you’re looking for something more active, sailing and kite surfing are popular activities that can be booked on the island.

Norway – Blue Mountain Carriage Trail

Our Blue Mountain Carriage Trail in Norway offers a unique and unforgettable experience for all. Located in the high mountains area in the middle of Norway, this holiday is perfect for those looking to explore breathtaking landscapes and experience local culture.

Horse-drawn carriage rides: Guests will enjoy exploring the trails of this beautiful mountain range on horse-drawn carriages, providing an immersive and relaxing way to take in the scenery of the Rondane National Park. The experienced guides will lead you through forests, past waterfalls, and across streams while sharing their knowledge of the area’s history and stories.

Traditional inns and cottages: On this trip, you will stay in traditional inns and cottages on the farms along the route. Each has 1-2 bedrooms with a shared bathroom/shower. Some nights you’ll have a living area with an open fire. These cosy accommodations offer the perfect opportunity to unwind after a day of exploring.

Non-riding activities: Additional activities available for an extra fee include lake fishing, fly fishing, bicycle excursions, a three-hour guided canoe trip on the river, and a chance to test your climbing skills on a climbing tower located approximately 4 km from the farm, with equipment and instruction provided.

Spain, Andalusia Mountain Retreat

Last on our list of horse riding holidays that non riders will love is our Andalusia Mountain Retreat, ideal for those eager to explore a traditional part of Spain. The retreat is located to the east of Malaga, deep in the mountains of Parque Natural Sierra Tejeda, Almijara Y Alhama Competa. With a wide array of activities available for both riders and non-riders, the retreat ensures something for everyone.

The Finca: Set deep within the National Park, the beautiful Finca is a sanctuary surrounded by nature. From the terrace, you are greeted with ocean views, peaceful terraced gardens, and a refreshing swimming pool, making it a truly delightful retreat. The original farmhouse is over 500 years old and has been lovingly restored. It consists of 2 double bedrooms and one small single that’s ideal for a child. Additionally, there is a one-bedroom restored apartment containing a double and a single bed and bathroom; and a garden chalet apartment with room for 3 or 4 people.

Hikes: For those who prefer hiking above riding, the walks are tailored to suit your abilities. You will have the opportunity to discuss all route options with knowledgeable hosts, allowing you to choose hikes that best fit your preferences in terms of distance, terrain, and scenery. For groups where one person prefers to ride and another wants to hike, you can plan to meet for a picnic lunch or enjoy a drink at one of the tavernas along the way.

Huge Range of Activities on Offer: There’s no shortage of things to do and see during your stay here. Whether it’s a beach trip, guided cycling tour, golf, Pilates, or salsa and flamenco lessons, there’s something to suit everyone’s interests. If you’re looking for adventure, try out off-road motorbiking or scuba diving. For a more leisurely activity, enjoy a wine tasting or take a guided tour of the local attractions. During the summer, take advantage of pool therapy, aqua gym sessions, and therapeutic swimming.

Wildlife: Surrounded by the Sierra Tejeda mountain range, Eagles often glide gracefully on the mountain thermals. Wild boars inhabit the area and can sometimes be spotted in the evenings from the Finca’s terrace. Keen wildlife enthusiasts might even be fortunate enough to glimpse an ibex.

In Conclusion

Our range of horse riding holidays that non riders will love offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, ensuring that everyone in your group has the best possible experience. From visits to cultural landmarks and museums to spa days and beach trips, there is a wide variety of options to keep everyone entertained.

At Unicorn Trails, our dedicated team of equestrian experts is always ready to assist you in planning your perfect holiday. Regardless of your riding level, we take the time to understand your preferences and requirements, ensuring we find the best option tailored specifically for you. Our goal is to cater to all members of your group, providing a variety of riding experiences, accommodations, and activities that everyone can enjoy.