Unforgettable, ethical holidays for children

Picture the scene – you are relaxing on holiday in beautiful alpine surroundings, being pampered in a medieval castle, or being spoiled in the spa of a country-house hotel. As you enjoy the peace, your children are expanding their equestrian knowledge with qualified experts.

The Riding Company specialises in tailor-made riding holidays to beautiful Austria, allowing parents to enjoy their own sporting adventures or pursue cultural interests, while their children are fully supervised.

The Riding Company is committed to responsible tourism and will pay for guests’ ‘carbon offsetting’ from any destination; they also work with small, family-run businesses in rural areas, who are dedicated to preserving their environment.

For a true cowboy experience, consider the Kroller Western Riding Ranch. Experienced riders from the age of eleven can enjoy western-style trail riding across the spectacular mountain wilderness, and a special two-day ride with an overnight stay in a mountain hut is available. Back at base, kids can hang out in the Kroller Indian Village or pan for gold in the river. This unique ranch hotel is especially designed for children, with numerous outdoor activities provided by professional staff. Parents can join in the fun or undertake their own riding or sports programme.

Seven to fourteen year-olds of all levels of experience can join the week-long international pony camp at the Dienstl Equestrian Estate, one of Austria's top riding centres. Young riders sleep in modern wooden huts around a camp fire in their own camp, while accompanying adults enjoy some peace and pampering at the adjacent 4-star country house hotel, or take part in their own riding programme. For the kids, mornings are spent looking after the horses and enjoying a full riding programme, while afternoons include adventure trails, swimming and picnic rides.

A summer camp is also offered at the farmhouse on the estate of the beautifully restored Castle Muhldorf, for novice to advanced female riders aged 8-16. The week includes twice daily riding lessons or hacks, theory sessions and a full entertainment programme. Accompanying adults can stay at the 4 star, romantic Castle Muhldorf, enjoying the glorious spa, gourmet food, an 18-hole golf course and horse riding.

At these Riding Company venues, children are looked after and coached by highly experienced and qualified personnel. Pony camps are available during Easter and Summer holidays and western trail riding is available throughout the year.

For more information, visit Theridingcompany.com.