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.
This is the first question everyone asks. The answer: to canter on the beach in the Landes region, you need to be comfortable at all three gaits (walk, trot, canter). In the French Equestrian Federation’s classification, this corresponds to at least Galop 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 Equestrian Center offers introductory outdoor riding courses specifically for adult beginners.
2. It’s not cantering in the arena, it’s much better
In the arena, cantering is often restricted, in a circle, on a flat, familiar surface. On the beach, it’s different: the sand absorbs the shocks, the horse has a straight line to the horizon, and the movement is naturally more fluid and free.
Canters aren’t in a tight pack but are individual or in pairs, which gives each rider time to find their rhythm with their mount. It’s often described as much less intimidating than you 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 isn’t the case with the horses at the Marina Equestrian Center. 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 out to the beach, a warm-up session in the arena is always scheduled so the rider can get a feel for their mount’s temperament. A change of arena is possible if necessary.
4. This ride is much more than a gallop; it’s a true trek.
Don’t expect to arrive at the beach and canter straight away. The ride begins in the Landes forest, crosses varied natural landscapes -heathland, 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 a.m. until late afternoon, with a picnic lunch break at the Bias pond. It’s 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 certain conditions.
The minimum age for forest-beach outings is 12 years old for half-day trips (if at Galop 3 level), and 13 years old accompanied by a parent or close relative for full-day trips. Without an accompanying adult, the minimum age is 15.
For younger children who haven’t yet reached Galop 3 level, 2-hour forest rides are available from age 12 when accompanied, at all levels. This can be an excellent introduction before heading to the beach the following year.
6. Rides 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 without a French Equestrian Federation (FFE) license, individual insurance is available on site.
7. You can swim with the horses in the ocean during the summer.
In July and August, the center organizes 5-hour outings that include swimming in the ocean with the horses. It’s an even rarer experience than the horseback riding itself—and for many participants, the most memorable moment of their stay in the Landes region.
In summary
Galanting on the beach in the Landes region is an experience accessible from level 3 (French riding level), well-supervised, on horses accustomed to the marine environment. It’s not an activity reserved for seasoned riders; it’s above all a sensory and natural adventure in the heart of one of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe.
The Marina Equestrian Center in Mimizan offers several packages adapted to different durations and seasons, with on-site accommodation available in its equestrian gîte (guesthouse).
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