Medieval castle ride in Italy – Castello di Santa Cristina
Live La Dolce Vita at a unique riding holiday based at a medieval castle, exploring ancient trails, vineyards, medieval villages and the beautiful Italian countryside
Riding Holidays with Non-Riders
Not everyone in your travel party needs to love horses. Riding holidays with non-riders are designed for exactly that, combining excellent riding with destinations where there is plenty to see, do and experience away from the saddle.
These holidays work particularly well for couples, families and groups of friends with different interests. While one person heads out on horseback, another might explore the countryside by bike or e-bike, go hiking, visit a historic town, enjoy a spa treatment or simply relax beside the pool. The best destinations make it easy for everyone to enjoy their holiday in their own way, before coming back together to share the day’s adventures.
Outdoor activities are often easy to combine with riding. Depending on the destination, non-riders can cycle through vineyards, hike in the mountains, explore quiet country roads by e-bike or join guided excursions into the surrounding landscape. Other experiences might include visiting castles and historic sites, wine tasting, cooking, boat trips, beach days or exploring local towns and villages.
The accommodation is an important part of the experience too. Many properties offer a range of activities from the same base, while others are close to cultural attractions, beaches, vineyards and natural sights. Shared dining, social and relaxation spaces mean that riders and non-riders can spend their days following different adventures without feeling like they are on separate holidays.
For couples, one person can enjoy a morning ride while the other heads off on a hike or cycling excursion, before meeting for lunch or exploring together in the afternoon. For families and groups, it means everyone can choose activities that suit their interests without anyone feeling pressured to ride.
Whether you are travelling with a partner who prefers cycling, a friend who would rather hike, family members interested in culture or someone who simply wants time to relax, these holidays make it possible to share a destination without sharing every activity. Keen riders get exceptional time in the saddle, while non-riders have plenty of their own adventures to look forward to.
EXPLORE HORSE RIDING HOLIDAYS WITH NON-RIDERS
Short riding holiday in Italy – Castello di Santa Cristina
Spend four nights in a medieval castle, riding ancient trails through the Italian countryside and soaking up the magic of rural Lazio.
Ribera del Duero – Spanish Wine Trail
Ride through the vineyards and historic landscapes of Spain’s Ribera del Duero, combining exhilarating riding with exceptional wine and local culture.
Segovia Escapes – Spain on horseback
Ride and canter through the historic landscapes of Castilla y León, from royal gardens and pine forests to Segovia’s ancient walls.
History At A Canter – Riding in Spain
Ride through historic villages, medieval castles and beautiful Castilian countryside on an exhilarating horseback journey through Segovia.
FAQs for Horse Riding Holidays with Non-Riders
Absolutely. Many riding destinations offer a wide range of activities for non-riders, making them ideal for couples, families and groups of friends with different interests. The non-rider might cycle, hike, explore local towns, enjoy cultural experiences or simply relax while you ride.
Activities vary by destination but can include cycling and e-biking, hiking, sightseeing, cultural and historical tours, museums, wine tasting, food experiences, archery, beach activities, hot springs, spa treatments and massages. Some properties also offer organised excursions and day trips.
Yes. Many destinations have shared meals, communal areas and activities that everyone can enjoy together. You can spend part of the day pursuing separate interests before meeting up for lunch, sightseeing, dinner or another shared experience.
They can be an excellent choice for couples with different interests. One person can enjoy several hours riding while the other goes cycling, hiking, sightseeing or relaxing, with plenty of opportunities to come together throughout the day and enjoy the destination as a couple.
Look for destinations with a good range of activities beyond riding and accommodation where everyone can comfortably spend time together. It is also worth considering how easy it is to explore independently, whether guided activities are available and what there is to do nearby.
LEARN MORE ABOUT WORLDWIDE HORSE SAFARIS
HORSE RIDING HOLIDAYS WITH NON-RIDERS