The north-west of Sardinia is a riot of geographical contradictions, which nevertheless manage to unite with incredible harmony.
White beaches washed by the sea, cliffs, islands, woods and barren land, mysteries and legends, the scent of myrtle and the wind that shakes this wild land: the area around Alghero is a wonder to be discovered, better if in an alternative and eco-friendly way, such as exploring these landscapes on horseback.
Horse-riding excursions are certainly one of the most authentic, fun and original ways to discover the territories of north-western Sardinia, a land characterized by the harshness of its wild nature and the beauty of its sea, with incredible colors. Imagine discovering the sunsets on the island of Asinara, or the colors of Capo Falcone, during a horseback excursion: a unique way of getting to know this island so rich in mysteries.
And they are really suitable for everyone: children from the age of three can join their parents in the saddle for a unique experience that will make their holiday in Sardinia unforgettable.
After all, horses are inextricably linked to the history of Sardinia: these animals have a very ancient history here, having been used for millennia for work and transport along the island's mule tracks.
Sardinia is a land of horsemen, where the union between man and horse has been deeply intertwined since ancient times, creating a symbiotic relationship that continues to this day in local traditions.
In the past, horses were mainly used for work and to transport people and goods around the island, but today they are linked to Sardinian folklore.
There are many festivals dedicated to horses and riders, such as the Cavalcata Sarda in Sassari or the traditional Sant'Efisio festival in Cagliari in May.
Discover north-western Sardinia on horseback: where to go?
Alghero is particularly suitable for horse-riding, both because of its particularly peaceful and evocative surroundings and because there are so many routes to choose from.
Some, such as the beach rides, are suitable for the youngest and most inexperienced riders. Others are suitable for more experienced riders, creating a truly bespoke experience for everyone.
You can take advantage of your holiday in Alghero to go horse-riding and discover the surrounding nature and the most characteristic places of the northern part of the island.
Experiencing a horseback ride in Sardinia can be extremely engaging, and you don't have to be an experienced rider to enjoy a “trip out of town” in the saddle to discover the natural wonders of Alghero and north-west Sardinia.
The stables in the area offer rides for both experienced riders and beginners, always in complete safety. In this way, the thrill of discovering one of the most evocative corners of the island in the saddle can truly be said to be for everyone.
What if you have no experience in the saddle? No problem: the joy of horse riding is not reserved for experienced riders, everyone can try it out and ride small, easy trails under the supervision of experienced guides.
For those who have never ridden before, it is possible to experience the thrill of a first ride in the saddle, for example discovering the sunsets on the beaches of Alghero from horseback.
For more experienced riders, there is the possibility of following routes that will take you to the wildest and most mysterious places in the north-west of Sardinia, always accompanied by expert guides who will help you to appreciate the wonders of the area and the peculiarities of this mysterious region.
In short, the paths you can take are numerous and the only limit is your imagination.
From excursions on horseback to Porto Ferro and Lake Baratz in Alghero, from rides along the Coral Riviera to the discovery of necropolises and nuragic villages, this endless corner of Sardinia offers incredible wonders to be conquered in the saddle, experiencing the thrill of a unique and unforgettable adventure together with expert instructors and riders.
Certainly, one of the most popular experiences, especially for first time riders, is a walk on the beach at sunrise or sunset.
An incredible way to greet the new day or the end of the day, accompanied by the incredible colors of the sun and the sea, the reflections at dawn or dusk and the sound of the water splashing on the horses' hooves. This unforgettable experience is suitable for everyone, even those with no previous riding experience.
Where to book a horse ride in Sardinia?
Where can you book a horse ride in the north-west of Sardinia to discover all the beauty of the area from a different point of view?
We can recommend two establishments that are at the forefront of organizing equitourism trails, both for their environmental and animal welfare philosophies and for the evocative trails they offer their clients.
The Three-star Sa Mandra riding centre is one of the best places to go for the unique experience of discovering the territory of Alghero and its surroundings on horseback.
The facility offers the opportunity to experience Sardinian nature trails on horseback, both for experienced riders and for those who are new to riding (including children).
The riding school organizes simple rides on the beach (including at dawn and dusk), in Porto Ferro and along the Alghero coast, as well as longer excursions to discover the historical and archaeological sites around the city or the rich local flora and fauna, such as excursions to the Porto Conte park.
In all cases, the excursion is preceded by a short lesson given directly by the guide, as well as a horse trial to test each rider's emotions and confidence with the animal, and to provide basic knowledge on the use of harnesses and riding, in order to make the excursion more enjoyable and safer for everyone. In this way, each participant can become familiar with the horse and feel comfortable during the ride.
The cost of the walk varies depending on the route and starts at around 50 euros for two hours, including compulsory insurance.
Another excellent riding school in and around Alghero is the Baratz riding school, located near the lake of the same name, which organizes rides and excursions for everyone to discover the wildest Sardinia.
The facility, which also rehabilitates abused and malnourished horses and is a true oasis of peace for both animals and riders, opened its doors to the public about seven years ago, allowing riders young and old, experienced and not so experienced, to approach the world of horse riding and experience magical excursions in the heart of northern Sardinia.
The rides are really for everyone and there are special prices and routes for the youngest riders and for riders from 3 years old who want to get closer to the magical world of horse riding. For young riders, there is a first moment to familiarize them with the world of horses and to make them feel comfortable in the saddle. Then they will go off to discover the beauty of Sardinia, while their parents can choose to accompany them on foot or on horseback.
The riding school allows you to ride on the beautiful beach of Porto Ferro or as far as Lake Baratz, to live magical moments and to give yourself (or others) a truly alternative and unforgettable Sardinian holiday.
For the more experienced riders there are exciting routes to discover the flora and fauna of Porto Conte and Porto Ferro beach, passing by the panoramic view of the Aragonese Tower and Cala Bantine Sale, to reach the picturesque Lake Baratz.
Tours start from 30 euros per hour for children aged 3 and over, and from around 50 euros for a ride of almost two hours for beginners and outsiders. The costs also include insurance, which is compulsory.
Equitourism in Sardinia: sustainability, adventure and unforgettable memories
Sardinia is a beautiful island that preserves oases of peace and beauty far from the mass tourism. What could be better than a holiday on horseback to discover the most beautiful places in the north-west of Sardinia in an alternative, fun and curious way?
Equestrian tourism allows you to get to know the beauty of the territory, its artistic heritage and its flora and fauna in a completely sustainable and respectful way.
A horse-riding holiday in Sardinia, in and around Alghero, is not only a fun and alternative way to spend an afternoon, but above all it is the creation of an unforgettable memory that will remain forever in the hearts and minds of those who choose it.
A holiday on horseback allows you to discover some of the most famous places in northern Sardinia from a completely different perspective, in a way that respects nature, at a slow pace that is relaxing and allows you to leave behind the negative thoughts, fears and worries of everyday life.
Book your horse riding holiday at B&B Bonsai Alghero now.
You will never forget the thrill of watching the sunrise from a Sardinian beach on horseback, or the evocative and picturesque colors of a sunset in a wild cove as you ride along.