Equestrianism and riding have centuries of tradition in Slovenia, thanks to the Lipica Stud Farm, cradle of the world-famous Lipizzaners. Experiencing Slovenia from the saddle is a pleasure offered by numerous equestrian centres, tourist farms and ranches. You can ride horses around fenced farm fields, or follow guides into meadows and forests. You can also ride in the landscape parks and in Triglav National Park. Longer riding tours are also available.

From the Lipizzaner…

Horse lovers should not miss a tour of the Lipica Stud Farm, where the thoroughbred white Lipizzaner horses have been bred for more than 400 years. Lipizzaners delight fans of classical equestrianism in the style of the Spanish Riding School in Vienna, with dressage displays and as carriage horses.

Lipica today is an important tourist destination, which in addition to offering riding classes, open training sessions, shows and major international equestrian events, also offers unique views of the Karst from the saddle.

If you do not yet know how to ride, beginners’ and intermediate lessons and dressage courses are offered at equestrian centres and on ranches. In many establishments ponies are available for children, and an increasing number of riding clubs offer Icelandic horses.

The majority of equestrian centres also offer coach rides. These are also available in several tourist destinations around Slovenia, for example Bled.

... to the Ljutomer trotter

Another centre of equestrianism and riding is Ljutomer, where the Ljutomer trotter breed has been developed over the centuries. These are fast horses used for harness racing. At least four important harness race meets are held at the hippodrome in Ljutomer every year.

The American trotter is a breed that provokes admiration at the Brdo breeding centre, where the best Slovenian horses and riders compete on the sand racing track, complete with stands for the spectators.

Therapeutic riding

Therapeutic riding is also being developed in Slovenia. This form of riding is designed in particular for those with special needs, and is a combination of medicine, education and sport.