3 Dressage Getaways in Europe You’ll Love

Europe is the birthplace of dressage, and honestly, the options for a riding holiday are nothing short of incredible. I’ve searched for years through some of the best places to ride, and I’m finally happy to share three of my favorite spots for a dreamy dressage break—perfect if you’re looking for great instruction, beautiful horses, and a relaxed, inspiring atmosphere.

---

🇮🇹 Classical Dressage in Tuscany, Italy

Ride, dine, and unwind in the italian dolce vita while improving your dressage skills.

One place close to my heart is Il Paretaio in Italy—a charming, traditional farmhouse tucked in the rolling hills of Tuscany, surrounded by and vineyards and charming Renaissance towns, creating the perfect backdrop for a week of pure magic.

The lessons here are some of the best I’ve ever had—and I know I’m not the only one who feels that way. A lot of people leave feeling like they’ve learned more in one week than in an entire year at their local riding school. The coaches genuinely care about your progress. Whether you want to step a little out of your comfort zone or just learn in a supportive, safe environment, they’re there to help you feel both challenged and inspired. Plus, the food, wine, and the overall family atmosphere makes your feel right at home.

You can tailor your stay to however long you want (3-night minimum), and they welcome riders of all levels. Non-riders are more than welcome too—there’s so much to do in the area, from wine tasting to sightseeing in nearby Renaissance towns. It’s a great option if you’re travelling with a partner or family but equally if you are alone- there is always other interesting guests staying at the farmhouse!

---

🇫🇷 Dressage in Provence STUD-FARM, France

Ride world-class horses at a Lusitano & Lusitano-cross stud farm

This world-renowned breeding facility in Provence has now opened its 18th-century estate for riders to come stay and train. Their breeding program is all about mixing stunning Lusitano bloodlines with sporty German / warmbloods to create something really special—horses with movement, elegance, and an amazing, kind temperament. A few of their horses have even ended up with top riders like Alizée Froment.

Initially focused on highly rideable Lusitanos, the farm has evolved over the past 15 years to include crossbreeding with Grand Prix warmblood stallions like Glamourdale and Jovian (ridden by Charlotte Fry and Patrik Kittel, respectively).

This is best suited for intermediate to advanced riders—they don’t take complete beginners, but they do adapt to different levels. You can also mix in liberty training and go on beautiful hacks through the Alpilles regional park.

Non-riders are also welcome, there is a lot to do in the area and even just staying at the estate, relaxing with a book by the swimming pool or hanging out with the foals is a treat in itself.

---

🇪🇸 Dressage on Andalusian Stallions in Mallorca, Spain

Sunshine, PRE Stallions, & the Spanish island life

This is a family-run stud farm and agrotourism eco-retreat on the Spanish island of Mallorca. You’ll be riding beautifully trained Andalusian / PRE stallions, and the setup here is lovely—laid-back, welcoming, and surprisingly affordable! They offer several riding programs for all levels, with confirmed dates running almost every week from March to November. It’s a fantastic spot for riders of all levels, and they also warmly welcome families with kids or pets, as well as non-riders.

The finca is set in the middle of national parks and close to the coast, so you can enjoy trail rides, relax by the pool, and tuck into delicious local food made with produce grown right on the farm. A lot of the fruit and vegetables you’ll find on your plate come straight from the finca’s gardens. They’ve got around 70 horses, plus cows, chickens, dogs, and more—it’s wholesome, peaceful, and super welcoming.

The island is very well connected, with direct flights from many major cities across Europe—including the UK, Spain, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Scandinavia, and more.

As always, if you have any questions or need advice on your next riding holiday, feel free to reach out to me directly via email , WhatsApp or on Instagram @worldonhorseback.

Happy riding!!

Mathilde