Do you fancy a gallop on the beach but aren't quite sure what to expect? That's perfectly normal; it's a unique experience, different from a riding lesson or a typical forest ride. Here are 7 essential points to ensure a smooth experience.
1. You need to know how to gallop, but you don't need to be an expert
That's the first question everyone asks. The answer: to canter on the beach in the Landes, you need to be comfortable at all three gaits (walk, trot, canter). In the French Equestrian Federation's classification, this corresponds to at least level 3.
This level doesn't require any prior competitive experience. You simply need to have cantered outdoors or in an arena without feeling overwhelmed. If you're unsure of your level, a short introductory course can quickly get you there. The Marina specifically introductory outdoor riding courses.
2. This isn't cantering in a riding arena, it's much better
In a riding arena, cantering is often restricted, in a circle, on a flat and familiar surface. On the beach, it's different: the sand absorbs the shocks, the horse has a straight line facing the horizon, and the movement is naturally more fluid and free.
The canters are not in a tight pack but individually or in pairs, which gives each rider time to find their rhythm with their mount. It is often described as much less intimidating than one might imagine.
3. The horses are used to the beach, and that makes all the difference
A horse experiencing sand, the sound of waves, and sea spray for the first time can be unpredictable. This is not the case with the Equestrian Center Marina. The 30 horses, mostly Anglo-Arabians, regularly ride on the beach and in the marine environment. They are generous, active, very sure-footed, and well-trained.
Before heading to the beach, a warm-up session in the arena is always scheduled so that the rider can get to know their horse's temperament. A change of horse is possible if necessary.
4. The outing is much more than a gallop, it's a real hike
Don't expect to arrive at the beach and start galloping straight away. The ride begins in the Landes forest, crosses varied natural landscapes – landes, dunes, lagoons, ponds – before reaching the ocean. That's the whole point: the contrast between the pine forest and the endless expanse of the beach is part of the experience.
The full day (Mimizan– Bias) lasts from 8:30 am until late afternoon, with a picnic lunch break at the Bias pond. It is not physically exhausting for a rider at level 3, but it's best not to be in poor physical condition either.
5. Children can participate, subject to specific conditions
The minimum age for forest-beach outings is 12 years old for half-days (if at gallop level 3), and 13 years old when accompanied by a parent or close relative for full days. Without an accompanying adult, the minimum age is 15 years old.
For younger riders who haven't yet reached Galop 3 level, 2-hour forest rides are available for children aged 12 and up, accompanied by an adult, and are suitable for all levels. This can be an excellent introduction before heading to the beach the following year.
6. Outings take place from April to the end of September, and advance booking is required
Forest-beach rides are offered daily from April to the end of September, with a minimum departure time of 3 riders (except weekends in July and August). During peak season, places fill up quickly: it is advisable to book several weeks in advance for July and August.
For those not licensed with the FFE (French Equestrian Federation), individual insurance is offered on site.
7. You can swim with the horses in the ocean in the summer
In July and August, 5-hour outings including a swim in the ocean with the horses . This is an even rarer experience than the gallop itself – and for many participants, the strongest memory of their stay in the Landes.
In summary
Galloping on the beach in the Landes is an experience accessible from level 3 riding proficiency, with proper supervision, on horses accustomed to the marine environment. It's not an activity reserved for experienced riders; it's above all a sensory and natural adventure, in the heart of one of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe.
The Equestrian Centre Marina, in Mimizan, offers several packages adapted to different durations and seasons, with accommodation available on site in its equestrian gîte.
