If you’re looking to move to Monaco, you may well already have clear ideas about the kind of luxury villa you wish to buy. However, one thing that may not have crossed your mind is the proximity to great riding schools that a Monte-Carlo postcode brings. After all, Monaco may be synonymous with extreme glamour and ultra extravagance, but this is by no means the extent of what it can offer. Monte-Carlo’s situation, tucked away in the French hillside, makes it the perfect base for excursions. And for those who enjoy nothing more than exploring the countryside with an equine friend, there are plenty of opportunities for pony trekking and Horse riding near Monaco, with a range of equestrian centres which cater to every possible need. Read on to discover four of the best, and get ready for the ride of your life!
World-class spots for horse riding near Monaco
Centre Equestre Des Preisses, Peillon
Tucked away in the medieval village of Peillon, just 20 minutes from Monaco, lies a magnificent equestrian centre aimed at those with a competitive streak. As a multi-discipline school, the Centre Equestre Des Preisses offers the full range of horse-based disciplines including jumping, contests, dressage, horse-ball and more.
The club’s friendly teachers will train anyone from 4 years upwards, and its covered riding space means it is in action all year round. What’s more, the prices are extremely reasonable given its proximity to Nice and Monaco, with lessons offered from only €20. Definitely, one to visit if you think you’re little ones may be within a chance of becoming the next Charlotte Casiraghi.
Horse and Ventures, Sainte-Agnès
If you’re willing to drive a little further to find great Horse Riding near Monaco, a 45-minute road trip will take you to Horse and Ventures. A charming and all-encompassing equestrian centre, this Sainte-Agnès institution offers a friendly approach to exploring the great outdoors on horseback. Horses here are raised in open pasture, and their gentle nature means you can rely on them to bring you an enjoyable excursion in the Alpes-Maritimes.
Horse and Ventures offer part or full day rides in and around Sainte-Agnès, alongside longer 2-6 day trekking holidays around different areas of the rolling French countryside. The club can also provide horse riding lessons, as well as special packages that combine horse riding with a love of food or even yoga. All in all, whatever you are looking for they should be able to provide; their longer trekking holidays come particularly recommended.
Centre Equestre Monti, Menton
Just a stone’s throw away from Monaco in neighbouring Menton, the Centre Equestre Monti awaits. Run by a family of riders with a passion for everything equestrian, this club has been successfully teaching children and teenagers how to ride since 1979. It offers classes in both French and Italian teaching the main equestrian disciplines: dressage, jumping and pony games. As they progress, children have the opportunity to take the federal exams – aptly named “GALOPS.” The Centre Equestre Monti also teaches kids about the practicalities of the horse riding lifestyle, making sure they know how to groom and care for the horses, and hopefully fostering a love of these gentle animals that lasts a lifetime.
Horse Planet Equitation, Berre Les Alpes
The furthest away of all our schools for horse riding near Monaco, Horse Planet Equitation lies a 50 minute drive away, but we promise you the journey is worth it. Its beautiful setting has to be seen to be believed, known as the “Secret Riviera” because of its privileged position between Mediterranean Sea and Southern Alps and framed by the hilly Nice landscape.
Horse Planet Equitation welcomes all lovers of horses and wide open spaces, so whether you are looking for a horseback trek with a view that makes you never want to get down, or simply want to learn through group or individual classes in stunning surroundings, this is the place for you. Lessons here can be carried out in French, English or Spanish, making them suitable for holidaymakers as well as residents.
So there we have it: our top four spots for world-class horse riding near Monaco. Let us know which is your favourite, or if you have any other suggestions to add to the list. Other than that, we’ll see you out on the field!
