About horse riding in Gansbaai

Straight from the horse's mouth : Gansbaai boasts the best horsepowered Joy Rides

Few things beat the sensation of unbridled freedom one gets from exploring nature on horseback. 

The Gansbaai area boasts a variety of superb horse riding venues along its white sandy beaches and mountainous fynbos fields. Several farms in the region provide horse riding lessons and out-rides. Whether one merely wants a relaxing stroll or canter to enjoy the scenic landscape, or prefer some serious beach riding, there are horses for courses available for any route and duration.

Galloping or gallivanting on horseback through these unspoilt fynbos-clad hills and valleys that overlook the ocean is a sensuous and sensational assault on one's senses. The fresh sea breeze, tinged with the fragrance of floral foliage, is so intoxicating that it even horse-powers the oldest stallion into equine exuberance. 

The Grootbos Nature Reserve outside Gansbaai offers a unique and exquisite venue for social horse riding. Experienced instructors lead the tours and cater for all levels of riding experience, including complete novices. The 1 750 hectare of unspoilt fauna and flora provides one with unparalleled panoramic views of the Duynefontein mountains and the entire coastline from Pearly Beach to False Bay in the distance. Grootbos has its own stables with 20 well-trained horses, including foals and ponies for children's rides. More experienced riders can embark on longer beach rides along Die Plaat in the Walker Bay Nature Reserve, as well as along the Uilenkraalsmond estuary between Franskraal and Pearly Beach. 

Whether you prefer gentle trotting or cantering through the Overberg's unique fynbos landscapes, or exhilarating gallops through shallow waves, a more exquisite venue for horse-powered joy rides is hard to find. Never look a gift horse in the mouth : Come experience the beauty of the fynbos, surrounded by the flowers and birds unique to the mountains of the Cape Coast. 

What you need to know: 

• Children under the age of 12 are only allowed on pony rides if accompanied by parents.
• You need riding experience in order to take part in beach horse rides. The activity is not suitable for beginners.
• Bookings must be made in advance.