The best of summer in Normandy: horses, sea, and freedom
Want to experience a different kind of vacation, punctuated by the waves and the sound of hooves? Plan your horse riding holidays in Normandy on the magnificent Côte de Nacre. Between Courseulles-sur-Mer and Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer, the region offers an exceptional natural setting for horseback riding: vast sandy beaches for galloping, varied landscapes, and a rich historical heritage to explore. Whether you are a novice or an experienced rider, two high-quality equestrian centers welcome you for an equestrian adventure accessible to all levels.
Here, vacations are spent riding horses, for young and old, beginners and experienced riders alike.
Why choose horseback riding holidays in Normandy for your next adventure?
The Côte de Nacre, a perfect destination for combining the sea, horses, and the gentle Normandy lifestyle
Whether you come with family, friends, or as a couple, the equestrian centers in Courseulles-sur-Mer and Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer offer rides, courses, lessons, treks, and immersion in a natural setting that combines sea, countryside, and history.
Here, everyone finds their place… even those who have never touched a halter before.
The best destinations for horse riding holidays in Normandy
1. An ideal destination for families
Here, children can start as young as 3 years old (baby pony rides and led rides). Parents can enjoy activities suitable for all ages.
This makes it a rare coastal destination where you can discover horse riding while enjoying the beach.
It’s easy to alternate between horseback riding, swimming, and ice cream on the boardwalk: the perfect combination.
2. An incredible playground for couples
Walks at sunset, private lessons for two, trips to the beach at low tide…
Horseback riding becomes a romantic, fun, and rejuvenating activity. Perfect for unwinding together.
The Côte de Nacre offers more than 10 km of fine sandy beaches: a real playground for horse riding for two.
Must-do activities during your horse riding vacation
3. Equestrian activities for all levels
- Beach & countryside walks
- Holiday camps for children/teenagers
- Adult initiation
- Group or private lessons (whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, the centers offer a tailor-made experience).
4. Diverse landscapes to discover on horseback
Beaches, woodlands, country lanes, flax fields, and historical ruins…
Every outing is like a new postcard from Normandy.
Horseback riding vacations in Normandy: options for beginners and experienced riders
Horse riding in Courseulles – Courseulles-sur-Mer
A center ideally located a few hundred meters from the beach, offering an exceptional natural setting for horse riding.
The center also stands out for its ethical and environmental approach, recognized by the EquuRES label. The team makes the well-being of the horses a point of honor.
Perfect for:
- Beach and countryside walks
- Individual or group lessons
- Summer camps for children and teens
- Horse owners who wish to come on vacation with their own horses—the center offers full board.
Les Écuries du Littoral – Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer
Friendly atmosphere, accessible and suitable for families.
The center also stands out for its Equi-handi classes offered on Saturday mornings.
Among the activities offered are:
- Baby pony lessons to advanced level
- Equi-handi lessons
- Aerobatics lessons
- Themed internships
- Supervised beach outings
- Family or couple walks
Why Book Your Horse Riding Holidays in Normandy This Year?
Courseulles Equestrian Centre
COURSEULLES-SUR-MER
Come and relax, learn or perfect your riding skills in a friendly atmosphere, for an hour, a weekend, a week […]
Écurie du Littoral
SAINT-AUBIN-SUR-MER
The Écurie du Littoral offer riding lessons and courses for horses and ponies. Babies" lessons and courses for 4-6 year […]
Regulations: what you need to know before galloping off into the sunset; how to organize a horse riding vacation in Normandy: practical advice
Horse riding on the beach is supervised: time slots vary depending on the municipality, priority is given at low tide, and galloping is only permitted in designated areas.
Guided walks organized by the centers remain the simplest way to enjoy the beach with peace of mind.
Based on the information on the regulations page, here is a clear summary for your readers:
- Horses are not allowed on beaches at all times.
- The times when they are allowed depend on the local authorities, the tides, and the seasons.
- Walks must comply with municipal regulations.
- Galloping is only permitted at low tide, in the designated area.
- Riders must be in control of their horses, especially during the summer when there are many visitors.
✅ FAQ – Horseback riding vacations on the Côte de Nacre
1. Can you ride horses on the beach at Courseulles-sur-Mer?
Yes, in Courseulles-sur-Mer and our other seaside resorts! Our equestrian centers offer supervised rides on the beach, mainly at low tide. Schedules depend on municipal regulations and tides.
The simplest option is to book directly with the centers, which manage the authorized slots.
2.At what age can children start riding horses?
Children can start as young as 3 years old thanks to baby ponies and rides specially designed for toddlers. Lessons and courses are then offered for 6–12 year olds and teenagers.
3. Do you have to be a horse rider to take part in the rides?
No. Beach and countryside rides are accessible to beginners. The centers adapt the outing to the group’s level. Experienced riders can enjoy more technical or dynamic outings.
4. What equestrian activities are available at the destination?
Horseback riding on the beach or along country trails, vacation camps, private lessons, baby pony rides, and more. Our equestrian centers offer a wide variety of activities for all skill levels.
5. Can you gallop on the beach?
Galloping is only permitted in areas and beaches where regulations allow it, and generally at low tide. It is reserved for experienced riders.
The centers ensure compliance with local rules during outings.
6. Are horseback rides suitable for couples?
Yes, it’s even one of the most romantic activities the destination has to offer. The centers offer duo lessons, peaceful sunset rides, or beach outings for an unforgettable moment for two.
7. What equipment do you need to go horseback riding?
Comfortable pants, closed-toe shoes such as sneakers or boots. Helmets are provided by the riding centers. In summer, remember to bring sunscreen and water.
8. Can we book a horse riding course during the summer holidays?
Yes. The two centers in Courseulles and Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer organize courses for children, teenagers, and adults: introductory courses, advanced courses, multi-activity courses, or full-day courses.
9. Where are the equestrian centers located?
The centers are located in Courseulles-sur-Mer and Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer, just a few minutes from the beach and walking trails.
10. What to do after a horseback ride?
Go swimming, enjoy the beaches, visit the port of Courseulles, sample a seafood platter, explore the bike paths, visit historic sites… The Côte de Nacre is the perfect place to round off your day.
11. Are the walks safe?
Yes. The riding centers are supervised by qualified professionals. The horses are suited to the riders’ skill levels, and outings follow strict safety rules.
12. Can we bring our own horse?
Yes, some equestrian centers and boarding facilities in the area welcome horses “on vacation.”
