On our first date my now husband, Chris, mentioned “I really like dressage riding”. I did not understand the ramifications of this. The outcome is that our children are keen equestrians, we live on a horse property and our weekends and money are relinquished to horse events.
In an effort to assimilate into this horse loving family, I’ve had many, many riding lessons. I’ve had no scary experiences; no falls or bolting or surprise show jumping moments. However, I have shown no talent, have not improved and it turns out I’m quite terrified of horses.
I needed to find some joy and belonging in this predicament and I have found it in Equestrian Holidays. Not the adventurous riding through the mountains of Spain or beaches in Indonesia. My happy place is a contained, safe arena with a kindly instructor and a pool nearby. Working on my sitting trot and then a glass of local wine for my efforts. A canter and a Chianti.
Il Paretaio in Tuscany, Italy, is such a haven. Our family was welcomed into this paradise of wonderful food, wine and beautiful surroundings. Kind and generous hosts. Gentle horses that would accommodate the likes of me and my more ambitious family members. We stayed in an 18th century colonial farmhouse within the hills of Tuscany. We were close to Florence and Sienna for day trips and other times rode, slowly, through the olive groves and to a wine tasting.
Our next trip is a Dressage intensive in the Upper Rhine Valley in Germany. It promises gentle instruction, slow rides through the surrounding countryside and, yes, there’s a pool.
By Karen Smith
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